The Ice Castles started in Dillon, Colorado where they drew winter wonderland ice lovers from around Colorado.
When I saw the Ice Castle for the first time, I couldn’t believe how impressive it was. I couldn’t believe that this had been in Colorado and I had still hadn’t seen it. It is a true piece of art. Being there made me feel like a child again and it is the perfect place for children of all ages.
So, you want to plan a trip to the Ice Castle see the ice castles? Below are some of my recommendations on how to do the trip right
Where Are The Ice Castles?
The ice castles are currently in Cripple Creek, Colorado, which is an incredibly cold area high up in the mountains just beside Pikes Peak, making it the perfect place to construct these ice castles.
If you’re coming from North Colorado by way of Denver or Colorado Springs, hitch a ride on HWY 24 and head west until you hit Divide. From there, take a right on HWY 67 and enjoy the forestry and landscapes all the way through Gillette flats before plunging down into the popular Colorado casino town.
If you’re traveling from the south via HWY 50 near Cañon City, take a short drive on County Rd 9 and then turn left on County Rd 11. You’ll drive that windy road all the way until you hit Teller County Rd 1. Take a right then and follow the path past Mt. Pisgah and all the way into Cripple Creek.
The Ice Castles are nestled behind the Old Homestead House and the Double Eagle Casino on 339 Irene Avenue.
How Are the Ice Castles Made?
The founder, Brent Christensen, created these ice castles starting with building his own structures in his front yard for children in his neighborhood. And in 2011, the national ice castles were born.
Brent’s mission?
“To create happiness, laughter, and unforgettable winter memories.”
The castles are built by professional artists who specialize in ice art creation. They use hundreds of thousands of icicles to create the structures and weigh in at a combined 20 million pounds per castle.
On average, they grow 12,000 icicles daily.
At the Dillon Ice Castles, you’ll find there’s a lot to do. Tunnels to crawl through, brilliantly LED colored structures, incredible fountains, and giant slides that are perfect for all ages.
How Much Does It Cost To Visit The Ice Castles?
Planning a visit to the stunning Ice Castles in Colorado promises an unforgettable experience, and it’s a budget friendly activity that works for any family. Ticket prices for the Ice Castles vary depending on factors such as age, day of the week, and time of purchase.
Adult admission tickets range from $20 to $25, while children’s tickets (ages 4-11) typically cost between $15 and $20. Children ages three and under usually receive free admission, making it an excellent option for families with young children.
To save a bit extra, consider purchasing tickets in advance online. You may experience increases closer to the event date or at the door.
Remember to also budget for parking fees and optional add-ons like ice tubing or horse-drawn sleigh rides.
How Long Will The Ice Castles Be in Cripple Creek, Colorado?
Depending on the weather, the Ice Castles in Colorado can vary. Typically, Ice Castles are open between December and March, although this can vary from year to year.
As for the Ice Castles hours, the attraction usually opens in the late afternoon and stays open until the late evening. The evening has some of the best lighting, which is great for pictures and the ice slides that light up.
You can always keep watch and stay updated by visiting the Ice Castles website.
Preparing For Your Ice Castle Journey
The last time I visited, it was so cold, I lost my voice and got sick. So it’s important to bundle up! Obviously, we know we should dress appropriately for severely cold weather, but here are a list of things worth bringing.
- Hand and feet warmers as temperatures can get super low.
- Scarves
- Long Underwear
- Wool Socks
- Hats
- Jackets
- Waterproof gloves & pants
- Snowboarding and skiing gear
- Good boots
- Camera
- Tripod
- Knee pads (you will crawl in some places)
- Face mask
You may get down on your hands and knees at this interactive location. If you wear cloth items, you may get a little wet and cold and that’s just no fun.
Plan to stay for at least an hour because it is a maze and you want to make sure you explore every corner of the castles and get your perfect photo to boot.
I also recommend buying your tickets for around 5:00 and 5:30 entrance.
It is the perfect time to go because you can see the ice castles while there is still a little bit of daylight. You’ll then be able to see them at night when the lights come on. The best time to go is during the week when there aren’t as many people.
Where to Stay When Visiting the Ice Castles
Photo Credit: Cripple Creek Hospitality House
As you plan your visit to the enchanting Ice Castles in Cripple Creek, Colorado, finding the perfect lodging is essential for a memorable experience. Fortunately, Cripple Creek and the nearby town of Victor offer a variety of accommodations to suit every taste and budget.
Here are all the available lodging options in the area:
Cripple Creek Lodging
- Carr Manor Historic Inn
- Hotel St. Nicholas
- Bronco Billy’s Casino and Hotel
- Century Casino and Hotel
- Double Eagle Hotel and Casino
- Gold King Mountain Inn
- The Rushmore Hotel and Casino
- Midnight Rose Hotel and Casino
- Wildwood Casino
- Pikes Peak Paradise Bed and Breakfast
- Cripple Creek Hospitality House and Travel Park
Victor Lodging
- Victor Hotel
- The Eagle’s Nest Cabins
- The Victor City Hall Bed and Breakfast
With its diverse array of accommodations, Cripple Creek and Victor ensure that every visitor can find their ideal lodging for an unforgettable stay amidst the magical Ice Castles.
Restaurants to Visit Near the Ice Castles
Exploring the enchanting Ice Castles in Cripple Creek, Colorado, is sure to work up an appetite. Luckily, the area boasts a variety of dining options to satisfy every palate.
Here are the restaurants you can enjoy in Cripple Creek and nearby Victor:
Cripple Creek Restaurants
- The Brass Ass Restaurant
- Dynamite Dick’s Dining Emporium
- Womack’s Saloon & Gaming Parlor
- The Down Under
- Maggie’s Restaurant
- The Creek Restaurant and Saloon
- The Home Café & Caravan Eatery
- Ralf’s Break Room
Victor Restaurants
- Gold Camp Bakery (A personal favorite)
- Fortune Club Casino & Restaurant
If you’re coming in with a family, you might have difficulties sitting down at restaurants in casinos. With many of them not offering entry for children.
My suggestion, if you are bringing a family, is to visit the Gold Camp Bakery or Maggie’s Restaurant, as they offer easy entry for families with young children.
Other Attractions to Visit in Cripple Creek
While you’re in Cripple, you might as well maximize your trip by enjoying some of it’s rich history, shopping, or regular tours.
Here is a list of other activities to enjoy in the City of Cripple Creek:
- Ice Skating: Glide across the ice at the outdoor skating rink in Victor, Colorado
- Historic Tours: Discover the town’s rich history on guided tours of Victorian-era buildings and mining sites
- Casino Gaming: Try your luck at the historic casinos in town (not recommended for families with children)
- Dining: Indulge in hearty meals at local restaurants, offering cozy ambiance and delicious fare
- Shopping: Browse unique shops and boutiques for souvenirs and gifts
- Relaxation: Unwind with hot cocoa by a crackling fireplace or soak in a soothing hot tub after a day of winter fun
- Ice Festival: If you go at the right time, you may catch one of Cripple Creek’s largest events, the Ice Festival, which boasts magnificent ice sculptures
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or cozy indoor activities, Cripple Creek offers something for everyone to enjoy during the winter months.
Get Frosted At The Ice Castles in Colorado
It’s time for your next icy adventure at the Colorado Ice Castles.
Remember to prioritize your warmth and bundle up for this outdoor winter land adventure. Be careful going up to mountain, and remember to take lots of pictures. Enjoy your time and we’ll see you there!
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