Break The Ice And Skate This Winter (UPDATED)
By Jessica Mlinaric in Arts & Entertainment on Nov 19, 2012 7:00PM
(Image Credit: =Tom=)
Updated 11/21: Due to warm weather, the Chicago Park District is delaying the opening of several outdoor ice skating rinks. These three rinks will open on Friday: McKinley Park at 2210 W. Pershing; Midway Plaisance Park, 1130 Midway Plaisance North; Warren Park, 6601 N. Western. These three rinks will open on Saturday: Mt. Greenwood Park, 3721 W. 111th; Riis Park, 6100 W. Fullerton Avenue; Rowan Park, 11546 S. Avenue L. All others will remain closed for the time being.
Millennium Park's McCormick Tribune Ice Rink opened this weekend, kicking off skating season in Chicago. Whether you can salchow or stagger with a death grip on the rink wall, skating is a great way to enjoy the Chicago winter. We may prefer watching Patrick Sharp skate, but here are some rinks to check out until the Blackhawks hit the ice.
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
The picturesque rink in Millennium Park has become a seasonal staple. With a Mag Mile backdrop, Mariah’s holiday soundtrack, and great gawking views, the McCormick rink is pure winter wonder. (Michigan Avenue between Washington and Madison Streets)
Open: November 16 - March 2013
Admission: Free
Skate Rental: $10
Open Skate Hours:
• Monday - Thursday: Noon - 8 p.m.
• Friday: Noon - 10 p.m.
• Saturday (through Dec. 29): 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
• Saturday (beginning Jan. 5): 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Chicago Park District Ice Rinks
If the thought of Michigan Avenue during the holidays makes you want to hibernate, head to one of the Chicago Park District's seven rinks throughout the city. Hit the observation deck at Hyde Park's Midway Plaisance Park or skate indoors at McFetridge Sports Center in Irving Park.
Open: November 23 - February 24
Admission: Free ($5 admission applies to McFetridge Sports Center)
Skate Rental: $6
Open Skate Hours: Wed - Sun, 12:30 - 7:30 p.m. (Special hours apply to some locations)
The Rink at Wrigley
Even in the winter, we just can't quit the Cubs. Visit this full-size rink next to Wrigley Field during the week for half-priced admission and skate rental. (Addison and Clark Streets)
Open: Nov. 23 - March 3
Admission: $10 per adult, $6 for children 12 and under
Skate Rental: $10
Open Skate Hours:
• Monday - Thursday: 2 - 8 p.m., half-price admission and skate rentals.
• Friday: 2 - 10 p.m., Saturday: Noon - 10 p.m., Sunday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Skating in the Sky
If ground-level views don't do it for you, the John Hancock Observatory offers ice skating at over 1,000 feet up. There's no word yet on whether their synthetic ice breaks your fall better than the real stuff. (875 North Michigan Avenue)
Open: January 1, 2013 - March 31, 2013
Admission: $5 per 25 minute skating session (in addition to regular John Hancock admission)
Skate Rental: $1
Open Skate Hours: 9 a.m. - 11 p.m.