From November to February, the Arenaplatz in front of the Zug OYM hockey arena transforms into Herti Zauber—a winter wonderland perfect for families. Located in Zug, just a 30-minute drive from both Lucerne and Zurich, this seasonal attraction offers ice skating, cozy seating areas, and a charming fondue chalet. It’s a lovely spot to visit during the day or at night, when the market lights glow across the ice. Plan to stay for about two hours to give the kids plenty of time to skate and soak in the winter atmosphere.
Ice Skating at Herti Zauber
The main highlight of Herti Zauber is its large ice-skating rink, which includes a smaller circular path branching off from the main area—a favorite among younger skaters. Dress warmly and bring a helmet, waterproof gloves, and snow pants for comfort and safety. These help cushion falls and keep everyone dry, especially when the weather is milder and the ice becomes a bit slushy. If possible, plan your visit for a colder day when the ice surface is at its best.
Tickets and Skate Rental
Tickets for Herti Zauber can be conveniently purchased online through Eventfrog. Guests need a ticket to access the rink and can rent ice skates—either figure or hockey skates—on-site. Admission prices are 8.50 CHF for adults, 5 CHF for ages 16–19, and 3.50 CHF for children aged 4–15. Skate rentals cost 7 CHF for adults and 4 CHF for youths under 19. Skates can be picked up from the large white shipping-container buildings near the entrance. Families with younger children can rent a seal skate aid for extra support, available near the toilets for a refundable 4 CHF deposit (2×2 CHF coins) for 30 minutes. Benches around the entrance make it easy for families to lace up their skates comfortably.
Dining and Warm Drinks
Overlooking the rink is the Fondue Chalet, where guests can enjoy a cozy meal indoors (advance reservations can be made online). For a quick bite, a nearby kiosk serves warm drinks and snacks—we especially loved the fries. In the evening, the outdoor seating and fire pits add to the magical atmosphere. If your family wants more dining variety, Freiruum is only a seven-minute walk away and offers 14 food stands with family-friendly dishes like pizza, pasta, and chicken nuggets.
Getting There and Amenities
Herti Zauber is easily accessible by public transportation. The bus stop “Zug, Stadion” is right in front of the square, or it’s about a 10-minute walk from Zug’s main train station. For those arriving by car, limited parking is available in the “Arena” garage located beneath the square. Another good option is the “Parkhaus An der Aa” garage, just a seven-minute walk away. Visitors will also find lockers (CHF 2 deposit required) and toilets on-site for convenience.
A Cozy Winter Experience in Zug
We love this charming seasonal spot right in the heart of Zug. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with sparkling lights, comfortable seating areas, and a spacious skating rink featuring a circular path perfect for families. With nearby food options and excellent accessibility, Herti Zauber is a great destination for a fun winter family outing. If you’re exploring family-friendly winter activities in Switzerland, make sure to add Herti Zauber in Zug to your list—and visit our family travel blog for more winter ideas and guides.