Quick Info
Location: Dillon, Colorado, about 70 miles west of Denver via I-70. Season: Late December/January through February/March (weather dependent). Tickets: Advance purchase required at icecastles.com.
Every winter, artists build a massive frozen kingdom on the shores of Dillon Reservoir. Ice Castles features towering frozen spires, winding tunnels, ice slides, fountains, and caverns - all constructed from hundreds of thousands of icicles grown and harvested by hand.
The experience transforms after dark when embedded LED lights illuminate the ice in shifting colors. Walking through the frozen caverns at night, surrounded by blue and purple glowing ice, feels like stepping into another world. It's genuinely magical, even for adults who think they're too old for fairytales.
The Experience
The castle is larger than you expect. Multiple towers, tunnels you can walk through, ice thrones for photos, and slides that kids (and adventurous adults) can ride. The design changes each year, so repeat visitors see something new.
The best time to visit is at dusk. You see the ice architecture in natural light first, then watch the LED lights come alive as darkness falls. The transition is part of the magic. Allow 1-2 hours to explore everything and take photos.
Night visits are more popular and atmospheric, but daytime visits let you see the ice craftsmanship in detail. Both are worthwhile for different reasons.
Planning Your Visit
Buy tickets in advance. Walk-up tickets are rarely available, and popular nights sell out weeks ahead. Book at icecastles.com as soon as dates are announced. Weeknight tickets are cheaper and less crowded than weekends.
Dress warmly - you're walking through ice at 9,000 feet elevation. The wind off Dillon Reservoir adds chill. Waterproof boots are essential; you'll be walking on ice and packed snow. Gloves and a hat aren't optional.
The castle typically opens in late December or January and runs through late February or March. Cold temperatures keep the ice solid; warm spells can close the attraction temporarily or end the season early. Check their website for current status before driving up.
Getting There
Dillon is about 70 miles west of Denver via I-70, roughly 90 minutes without traffic. Winter weekend traffic can double that. Consider visiting on a weeknight or combining with a ski trip - Keystone is 10 minutes away, Breckenridge 15 minutes.
The castle is at Dillon Town Park on the reservoir shore. Parking can fill up on busy nights; arrive early for your time slot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Rarely. Advance purchase is essentially required. Popular dates sell out weeks ahead.
Is Ice Castles good for kids?
Yes, kids love it. Ice slides, tunnels to crawl through, thrones for photos. Just dress them very warmly - they'll want to touch everything.
How long does a visit take?
Most people spend 1-2 hours. You can stay as long as you want within operating hours.
What if it's really cold?
The castle stays open in cold weather - that's what keeps the ice solid. Bundle up and embrace it. The coldest nights often have the fewest crowds.