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Skate Your Way Through Winter: Explore Southeast Michigan’s Ice Rinks

Enjoying winter fun at one of Southeast Michigan's best outdoor ice rinks.

News Summary

Southeast Michigan offers a variety of outdoor ice rinks to enjoy during the winter season, with options like Buhr Park Ice Arena, Dodge Park, and others. Whether you’re an experienced skater or a beginner looking for family fun, these rinks provide the perfect atmosphere for winter activities. Each rink has its set of hours, ticket prices, and rental options, making them accessible for everyone to embrace the joys of skating amidst the winter wonderland.

Skate Your Way Through Winter: Southeast Michigan’s Best Outdoor Ice Rinks!

Welcome to Southeast Michigan, where the chilly temperatures bring not just frost but a flurry of outdoor fun! If you’re looking to glide gracefully or perhaps just skate around clumsily (we’ve all been there), the outdoor ice rinks in the area provide the perfect escape from the winter blues. Grab your skates, bundle up, and let’s dive into where you can find the best ice skating experiences this season!

Buhr Park Ice Arena – Ann Arbor

One of the top destinations is the Buhr Park Ice Arena in Ann Arbor. This unique venue features a roof over its outdoor rink, making it a go-to spot regardless of the weather! Whether it’s sunny or snowing, you’re in for a fun time.

Public Open Skate Hours:
- Sunday: 3:15-5:30 p.m.
- Monday: 3:30-5 p.m.
- Tuesday: 4:45-6:15 p.m.
- Wednesday: 4:45-5:45 p.m.
- Thursday: 3:30-4:45 p.m.
- Friday: 7-8:45 p.m.
- Saturday: 2:45-4:30 p.m. & 7:15-8:30 p.m.
Ticket Prices: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and youth aged 3-17, and free for kids 3 and under.
Skate Rentals: Available for just $3, with additional costs for sharpening.
Location: 2751 Packard Road, Ann Arbor; visit a2gov.org for more details.

Dodge Park Ice Rink – Sterling Heights

Next up is the Dodge Park Ice Rink in Sterling Heights. This beautiful open-air rink is a favorite, especially since residents can skate for free! What could be better than that?

Hours: Noon-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; noon-10 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. Special hours exist for holidays!
Admission: Just $5 for non-residents. Skate rentals are $4, and sharpening costs $5.
Location: 40620 Utica Road, Sterling Heights; check out sterling-heights.net for more info.

The Rink at Campus Martius Park – Detroit

And let’s not forget about The Rink at Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit! This rink has won accolades as the top ice-skating venue in the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. It’s simply a magical experience!

Pricing: $9 for kids and $12 for adults, with discounts for seniors and military/first responders. Skate rentals cost $6.
Hours until January 5: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday.
Location: 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit; visit downtowndetroit.org for further details.

Riley Park Ice Rink – Farmington

Bouncing over to Farmington, the Riley Park Ice Rink boasts an impressive 4,800-square-foot refrigerated rink that beckons skaters all day long.

Hours: Open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, weather permitting.
Admission: Absolutely free! Plus, you can borrow skates at no cost (limited availability).
Location: 33113 Grand River Ave., Farmington; learn more at farmgov.com.

Royal Oak’s Centennial Commons – Royal Oak

Last but certainly not least is Royal Oak’s Centennial Commons, where the ice rink is set up with cozy fire pits and warming stations for those chilly days.

Skating Hours: Noon-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; noon-11 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday, operating until January 1, 2025.
Admission Costs: $10 on weekdays and $12 on weekends. Skate rentals are $5.
Location: 221 E. 3rd St., Royal Oak; visit therinkatroyaloak.com for the latest.

Southeast Michigan’s outdoor ice skating rinks are more than just places to glide on ice; they’re community hubs filled with laughter, festivities, and fun! Many rinks also offer skating lessons and are adorned with delightful lights to enhance those winter evenings. So, whether you’re a seasoned skater or looking to have some fun with family and friends, make sure to check out these amazing rinks!

Be sure to keep an eye on each rink’s website or social media pages for any updates, special events, or hours changes throughout the season. Happy skating!