Ice skating seemed like such a great idea. (Winter fun! Hot chocolate!)

Until you found yourself sardined in a rink with with every other person in town who had the same great idea. (Elbow! Ouch! In my cleavage!)

Avoid the mayhem (and its potential mishaps) and head across town to the Fort Dupont Ice Arena. The top-notch rink (the only public indoor one in D.C.) always has tons of space for free and easy skating. No getting tangled up or bumped around by fellow skaters — so you can practice your triple axel to your heart’s content.

And in addition to plenty of room, the rink has some of the best views of the city skyline, music that will make you want to move, friendly guards (some who will be happy to show you some ice maneuvers), skate rental, and warm beverages. You can also host private parties or volunteer with the Kids on Ice program, which teaches disadvantaged kids the joys of skating.

Of which now you will be fully convinced.

Fort Dupont Ice Arena, 3779 Ely Place SE, between 37th Place and Ridge Road (202-584-5007).