
Overview
The annual Ice Castles attraction, a stunning celebration of ice architecture, has returned for the winter season. These temporary installations, which combine art and tourism, are captivating visitors in New Hampshire and four other states. With millions of pounds of ice forming intricate structures, the attraction has grown in scale and popularity since its launch in 2011.
Locations Across the U.S.
This season, Ice Castles are featured in the following locations:
New Hampshire: Known for its expansive layout, snow tubing hill, and ice bar.
Utah: A classic destination for the Ice Castles experience.
Minnesota: Offering visitors a winter wonderland.
Colorado (two locations): Bringing the icy magic to multiple areas of the state.
Why It Matters
The Ice Castles are more than just visually impressive—they offer a one-of-a-kind experience that merges creativity, engineering, and natural beauty. Built using thousands of icicles grown, harvested, and carefully placed by hand, the installations are then sprayed with water and frozen into shape. This meticulous process creates stunning ice towers, tunnels, archways, and caves that are both architectural feats and immersive attractions.
For local economies, the Ice Castles serve as a winter tourism boost, drawing visitors from nearby states and beyond. After a mild winter in 2022, delayed openings and colder temperatures this year have allowed the installations to launch earlier, much to the delight of visitors and organizers.
The Scale of the Creation
The New Hampshire Ice Castle stands out as one of the largest ever constructed, using approximately 25 million pounds of ice spread across two acres. Jared Henningsen, the company’s vice president of operations, emphasized the scale of the project, noting that it pushes the boundaries of what the Ice Castles team has accomplished in the past.
Visitor Reactions
The Ice Castles are leaving a lasting impression on visitors. Julia Jones from Gloucester, Massachusetts, shared her amazement during her first visit. “I’ve never seen anything like this before,” she said. “Honestly, I didn’t think it was going to be this big.”
For some, the experience goes beyond admiration. Jessica Sullivan from Fairhaven, Massachusetts, was surprised by a marriage proposal from her boyfriend, Brian Jacques, during their visit. Jacques shared why he chose the venue: “It’s a beautiful place. I definitely thought this was the time and place to do it.”
A Day-to-Night Transformation
The Ice Castles offer two distinct experiences depending on the time of day. During daylight hours, the structures shimmer with a pale blue hue, highlighting their natural icy beauty. As darkness falls, the installations come alive with vibrant lights embedded within the ice. Colors like pink, purple, and green illuminate the castles, creating a magical atmosphere that feels otherworldly.
More Than Just Ice
In addition to exploring the castles, visitors can enjoy features such as snow tubing and an ice bar at select locations. These added attractions provide an extra layer of fun and make the Ice Castles a versatile destination for families, couples, and adventurers.
The Big Picture
Since its first installation in 2011, Ice Castles has expanded into a major winter attraction across multiple states. Its blend of artistry and engineering continues to inspire visitors and encourage winter tourism. This year, with favorable weather conditions, the Ice Castles are poised to dazzle thousands of guests and reinforce their reputation as a must-see winter destination.
What’s Next?
The Ice Castles are open for the season, but their availability depends on weather conditions. Visitors are encouraged to book tickets in advance, as the attraction often sells out during peak times. For those looking to immerse themselves in a world of icy wonder, the Ice Castles offer a truly unforgettable experience.
Comments