If watching the Winter Olympic Games has you itching to get off the couch and onto the ice, you don’t have to go far to find your own podium. From skating and hockey lessons at The Cube in Valencia to learn-to-curl sessions in Simi Valley and Panorama City — and even a luge-style run in Big Bear — Southern California is dotted with places where you can actually learn and do the Winter Olympic sports you just watched on TV.
The Cube Where Local Ice Dreams Take Shape
If watching Olympic hockey or figure skating left you wishing you could step onto the ice yourself, The Cube offers a close-to-home entry point for all ages and skill levels.
For young beginners, the Little Kings Program introduces children ages 5 to 9 to the fundamentals of hockey in a fun, supportive environment. Built on a USA Hockey-approved format, the program blends skill-building drills with on-ice play, helping kids develop confidence, coordination and teamwork. Participants receive six on-ice sessions along with full hockey equipment, making it an accessible way for families to try the sport without a large upfront investment. The program also connects young players to the broader hockey community through LA Kings-related perks and special events.
For those drawn to figure skating or simply learning to glide, The Cube’s Learn to Skate program welcomes everyone from toddlers to adults. Classes are organized by age and ability, ranging from parent-and-me sessions for children as young as 3 to advanced freestyle levels and adult classes. The structured curriculum focuses on building lifelong skating skills, whether the goal is recreational skating or more advanced training.
Not ready to commit to lessons? Public skating sessions are offered seven days a week, providing a flexible option for individuals, families or groups to experience the ice at their own pace. With skate rentals available and discounted group rates, it’s an easy way to channel that Olympic inspiration into a real-world experience.
The Cube is located at 27745 Smyth Drive in Valencia. For pricing or more information, visit www.thecubesantaclarita.com or call (661) 257-CUBE (2823).
Sweep Into the Action Try Curling in Simi Valley
Just a short drive from Santa Clarita, Simi Valley offers a chance to step onto the ice and experience one of the Winter Olympics’ most strategic and surprisingly accessible sports: curling.
SoCal Curling, based at the Iceoplex in Simi Valley, has been introducing Southern Californians to the sport since 2006. The organization prides itself on being a welcoming, family-friendly community open to all skill levels — from complete beginners to experienced players. For those who have watched Olympic curlers glide stones across the ice and wondered what it feels like to try it themselves, this local club provides an easy entry point.
The group hosts regular learn-to-curl sessions and open houses, where newcomers can get hands-on experience without needing prior knowledge or specialized gear. All necessary equipment is provided, and participants only need to bring warm clothing, gloves, and rubber-soled shoes. More dedicated players can invest in their own equipment over time, but the initial barrier to entry remains low.
Unlike many seasonal winter sports, curling in Simi Valley is available year-round, depending on ice availability. Games are typically held about once a month, and participants can join as individuals — no partner required. Teams are formed to accommodate players of all levels, and beginners are encouraged to jump in without hesitation. The sport’s collaborative nature means experienced teammates help guide newcomers, making it both social and approachable.
For those not quite ready to step onto the ice, SoCal Curling also welcomes spectators. Watching a match is free and offers a close-up look at the strategy and skill involved in the game.
SoCal Curling meets at the Iceoplex, located at 131 W. Easy Street. in Simi Valley. For more information, visit socalcurling.org or email info@socal
curling.org.
Valley Ice Dreams Learn Curling in Panorama City
In Panorama City, Hollywood Curling is bringing Olympic-inspired action to the San Fernando Valley, offering locals a chance to learn and play one of winter’s most unique sports.
Founded in 2007, Hollywood Curling is a volunteer-run nonprofit organization dedicated to growing the sport throughout Southern California. Operated by passionate amateur athletes, the club focuses on making curling accessible to newcomers while also fostering a competitive pathway for those who want to advance to higher levels of play.
As of 2024, the organization returned to one of its original homes, the Valley Ice Center in Panorama City, where it continues to introduce the sport to a wide and diverse community. Over the years, Hollywood Curling has welcomed thousands of participants, hosted leagues for all skill levels, and organized events such as its popular Summer Blockbuster Bonspiel. Its members have gone on to compete in regional, national and international competitions, reflecting the club’s commitment to skill development and community building.
For beginners inspired by the Winter Olympics, the club offers structured leagues designed to teach the fundamentals in a supportive, social environment. Spring beginner leagues are scheduled in multiple sessions, giving newcomers a chance to learn the game over several weeks while connecting with other players. The organization also emphasizes inclusivity, offering opportunities for youth and adaptive curling to ensure the sport is open to all.
Hollywood Curling meets at the Valley Ice Center, located at 8750 Van Nuys Blvd. in Panorama City. For more information or to sign up for a league, visit hollywoodcurling.org or email info@hollywood
curling.org.
Channel Your Inner Luge Ride at Big Bear
For those craving the speed and adrenaline of Olympic sliding sports like luge or bobsled, a trip to Big Bear Lake offers a Southern California alternative with a scenic twist.
The Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain invites visitors to take control of their own sled and race down a quarter-mile track carved into the mountainside. Each sled is equipped with wheels and Teflon runners, allowing riders to navigate a series of high-banked turns and straightaways at their own pace. Whether easing into the curves or picking up speed, the experience delivers a hands-on taste of gravity-driven competition.
The adventure begins with a chairlift ride to the top, offering panoramic views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains — an experience that feels worlds away from the typical Southern California landscape. From there, riders descend the track, controlling their speed with a simple hand brake, making it accessible for both thrill-seekers and families.
Open year-round (weather permitting), the Alpine Slide provides a winter-sport-inspired outing even when snow is scarce. Riders must be at least 36 inches tall, and younger participants between 36 and 48 inches can ride with an adult. Tickets are available for single rides or in discounted multi-ride packages, making it easy to turn a quick run into a full afternoon adventure.
The Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is located at 800 Wildrose Lane in Big Bear Lake. Hours are typically 10 a.m. to dusk on weekends and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays, weather permitting. For more information, call (909) 866-4626 or email [email protected].
