The time has come to strap into those ice skates and wobble your way out onto the ice. Don't worry, you'll (probably) pick it back up quickly. Whether it's a familial affair or a funky first date, there are plenty of places in the Valley to get in some quality rink time. Here are five spots to skate this winter.
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Arcadia Ice Arena This ice rink not only offers plenty of free skating time, but there are also a few opportunities for pick-up hockey games for all ages. If you're not confident on the ice, this arena also offers skating lessons both group and private. For more information on events, lessons, or group rates, visit the www.arcadiaice.com or call 602-957-9966.
Ice Den In addition to free skate sessions throughout the week, weekends at the Ice Den are packed with ice cold fun. On Fridays, the arena offers free skate rentals and discounted admission prices to the rink where a DJ spins and lasers light up the room. Then on Saturdays, families can come together and enjoy kid-friendly music, free skate rental, and discounted admission. Visit the www.coyotesice.com or call 480-585-7465 for specific times of free-skate and more information on weekend events.
Chill at W Hotel If you're looking for a more adult-oriented winter experience, head to the W Hotel in Scottsdale for some rooftop skating and specialty winter cocktails. From December 5 to 29, the hotel hosts Chill, a 1,500-square-foot ice rink set up on the roof next to the pool. The rink is open to the public for $10 per hour including skate rental. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 4 to 10 p.m., Friday 4 p.m. to midnight, Saturday noon to midnight, and Sunday noon to 10 p.m. Visit www.wscottsdalehotel.com/chill.
Polar Ice Chandler This rink has three locations in the Valley: Chandler, Gilbert, and Peoria. Polar Ice is a great place for group events, and is another facility with frequent free-skate sessions for skaters of all ages to enjoy. It also offers group skate and hockey classes for both youths and adults. Visit your nearest location's website for more details: Chandler, Gilbert, Peoria.
CitySkate at CityScape For a change of scenery and some fresh air while you skate, visit Cityscape and do some urban gliding. Phoenix's very own ice rink takes over Central Avenue between Washington and Jefferson streets again this year for the fourth annual CitySkate. Every weekday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 5 to 11 p.m. and on weekends from 3 to 11 p.m., you can head out to Cityscape for some all-ages public skating until January 13. For admission prices, event announcements and parking information, visit www.cityskatephx.com.
