The Dolder ice rink was built between 1930 and 1931 by the architects Witzig and Begert. It was one of the most modern and largest open-air ice rinks in Europe at the time.

The ice rink was officially opened on 1 December 1931, and it quickly became one of Zurich’s most popular leisure spots.

Dolder Wellenbad opened in 1934 and was one of the city’s first outdoor swimming pools. People would flock to the lido to experience the wave pool, a real novelty at the time.

The Dolder ice rink boasts a proud history as a leisure facility, but it has also served as a venue for international competitions. In 1939, it hosted several games in the Ice Hockey World Championships, an event that underlined its significance far beyond Zurich’s city limits. The ice rink has also been used as a training base for numerous top athletes, and it still is to this day. Former world champion figure skater Denise Biellmann is often to be found out on the ice rink, helping to nurture the next generation of skaters.

Opened in 1954, this 18-hole minigolf course was the first of its kind in Zurich and quickly became a firm favourite with the public. Situated right next to Dolder Wellenbad, the course is the perfect way to enjoy the summer weather while giving yourself a bit of a challenge.

In 1961, the ice rink was extended and a new entrance building was constructed. In the years that followed – from 1961 to 1964 – the curling hall as we know it today was also built.

The City of Zurich acquired a majority stake in the ice rink in 1996, and the facility has been publicly owned ever since. Between 2015 and 2017, it underwent a comprehensive technical and structural refurbishment, including the modernisation of the refrigeration system and the resurfacing of the ice rink.

Following the closure of the wave pool in 2006, the outdoor pool continued to operate from 2007 onwards under the name Dolder Bad.

At the end of 2024, the City of Zurich began a major refurbishment of the Dolder Bad facilities. Work was completed in May 2026.

Today, the ice rink boasts 6,000 square metres of ice, meaning it’s still one of the largest open-air ice rinks in Europe. The Dolder Eisbahn is the perfect place for ice skating, Bavarian curling, ice hockey, Chneble or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in the self-service restaurant.

In 2026, following its renovation, Dolder Wellenbad reopened in the unspoilt surroundings of the Zürichberg with a fresh new look and modern facilities. The design draws inspiration from the historic site and builds on its character. Facilities include a 50-metre outdoor wave pool and a children’s play area with a paddling pool. There’s also a sunbathing and recreational area covering around 10,000 square metres, offering plenty of space for both sport and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy a range of leisure activities, including minigolf, table tennis and volleyball, and a kiosk and a self-service restaurant ensure they have everything they need to enjoy their day.

The waves are making a comeback! From 2027, our legendary wave pool will be making a splash once again and keeping things flowing all summer long.