When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
AZ Ice Arcadia
Why AZ Ice Arcadia is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
AZ Ice Arcadia, established in 1966, is a premier ice skating facility located in Phoenix, Arizona. This family-friendly venue offers a wonderful blend of sports, recreation, and social experiences, making it an ideal meeting place for friends and families. The facility features two NHL-sized ice rinks catering to a variety of skating activities including public skating sessions, figure skating, and youth and adult hockey leagues. Whether visitors are beginners eager to learn or seasoned skaters looking for competitive play, AZ Ice Arcadia provides skating lessons and leagues that suit all levels and ages. Beyond skating, the facility includes a restaurant and bar that offer delicious food and beverages, allowing guests to relax and watch the action from a comfortable setting. For additional entertainment, there is a family-friendly arcade and a pro shop for skating equipment and accessories. AZ Ice Arcadia is also a popular venue for birthday parties and private events, with customizable party packages including skating lessons, pizza, and dedicated party rooms. This combination of athletic, social, and entertainment options makes AZ Ice Arcadia a lively and engaging spot to gather with friends and create lasting memories, no matter the occasion.
Here's what people think of AZ Ice Arcadia
As of recent, AZ Ice Arcadia holds a 4.3-star rating based on 549 reviews.
Reviews of AZ Ice Arcadia reveal a generally positive experience, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 from 549 reviewers. Customers commonly praise the facility’s cleanliness, welcoming atmosphere, and excellent staff, noting that the instructors and rink management are helpful and friendly. Many users appreciate the variety of programs offered, such as public skating sessions, learn-to-skate classes, and hockey leagues, highlighting their suitability for all age groups and skill levels. Positive reviews also emphasize the quality of the rink itself, including well-maintained ice surfaces and the NHL-sized rink, which provides an authentic skating experience. The restaurant and bar area receive compliments for good food, a nice selection of drinks, and a pleasant place to watch games. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues like crowded skating sessions, limited parking, and wait times during busy hours. A few customers have noted that the arcade and pro shop spaces could be improved for better customer experience. Despite some critiques, the overall consensus is that AZ Ice Arcadia is a well-managed facility offering fun and engaging activities. The friendly staff and range of options make it a popular choice for both casual skaters and hockey players, as well as for social events and gatherings.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Matthew Villalobos
Had a great birthday party experience. Having the party room for the whole public skate time was great. At first the music wasn't working, but they let me help fix it and that was awesome. Our party host was well prepared, and we certainly are grateful for not having to clean the mess we made. Also, it felt like a fair price for 15 participants with more than enough room for everyone involved.
rodrigo jimenez
Fun stuff, cold inside, take a jacket and some gloves because falling sucks but then placing your hands on the ice to get up makes it much worst. Try to go to the earlier public sessions because sometimes the ice is rougher in the evenings.
John Lin
From a photographer's perspective, the lights did not flicker (a huge plus) and was more than adequate to capture images of 8U games. Forget about trying to photograph through the plexiglass. 1. There are no photo holes. 2. The glass is trashed all around. Unless you have access to the bench, you can forget about capturing images. The arena appears to be well-used and was showing its age. There were a few sketchy-looking people around the parking lot. Plenty of parking. There is a restaurant / bar inside. One men's and one women's bathroom. The men's bathroom was clean. I was not on the ice, so I cannot comment on the quality of the ice.
Nico Johns
It was once a great little rink but they let it go downhill. The bar shuts down early and fans going after players!?! In one week, we had a fan go into our locker room after a player, a fan confronted our bench, and a fan shut down the bar after scaring the bartender. No one seems to be managing this place anymore and if they do, they don't care about safety or rules enforcement.
Charles Carson
Always a good place for me to get my skate on. The rentals are okay when I bring my sons. Check their website for the ice times as they do change quite a bit.
How to reach AZ Ice Arcadia
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Website: None
Why AZ Ice Arcadia may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at AZ Ice Arcadia with your friends? AZ Ice Arcadia stands out as a vibrant and engaging destination perfect for gathering with friends or family, offering a unique blend of fun, fitness, and social interaction all under one roof. Whether you’re looking to skate gracefully or just have a few laughs on the ice, the atmosphere here captures the joy of shared experiences. The rink provides a perfect setting to bond, challenge each other, or simply unwind in a lively environment where everyone, from novices to seasoned skaters, can feel at ease. Its location in the lively Arcadia neighborhood of Phoenix makes it accessible yet distinct, adding a splash of coolness to your usual hangouts. The presence of other amenities like a bar and restaurant means your meetups can extend beyond skating, allowing your group to enjoy great food and drinks, making it a full-rounded social outing. Moreover, with consistent positive reviews averaging 4.3 stars, AZ Ice Arcadia is well-loved by its patrons, assuring you a quality experience when you come to rally here.
What activities can you do at AZ Ice Arcadia? AZ Ice Arcadia offers more than just ice skating, making it a hub of diverse and exciting activities suited to groups of all sizes and ages. Public skating sessions invite everyone to glide across polished ice in various time slots, accommodating busy schedules and giving ample opportunities for casual fun. For those seeking structured learning, the rink provides "Learn to Skate" classes where beginners, especially kids aged 3-14, can develop their skills safely and confidently. Beyond traditional skating, the rink hosts hockey games and figure skating, allowing groups with varied interests to find common ground or simply cheer on players and performers. The facility also organizes summer camps featuring unique activities like Broomball, on-ice and off-ice lessons, movie times, and crafts, providing enriching entertainment especially for families. This comprehensive suite of activities ensures that each visit brings something fresh and engaging, optimizing fun and bonding for friend meetups or family gatherings.
Why is AZ Ice Arcadia perfect for a group meetup? AZ Ice Arcadia excels as a meetup spot due to its spacious, well-maintained environment that balances excitement and comfort effortlessly. The availability of two rinks means groups can split for different skating activities or practice while still staying within earshot, fostering a communal vibe. The rink’s operating hours from early morning to midnight daily offer maximum flexibility to plan events that fit everyone's lifestyle. On top of skating, the on-site restaurant and bar provide convenient access to food and drinks, making it easy to prolong your visit and enjoy meals or celebratory toasts together without having to leave the venue. Group rates, rentals, and membership options cater to diverse budgets, which makes organizing outings simpler and more affordable. Plus, the rink encourages safety by recommending helmets and providing a range of skate sizes, ensuring all group members, no matter their age or skill level, enjoy the day worry-free. This thoughtful attention to detail and facilities makes AZ Ice Arcadia a truly accommodating and fun venue for any group aiming to create memorable moments.
What makes the location of AZ Ice Arcadia convenient and enjoyable? Located at 3853 E Thomas Rd in Phoenix’s Arcadia neighborhood, AZ Ice Arcadia enjoys a prime spot that blends urban convenience with a laid-back vibe perfect for socializing. The surrounding area offers ample parking, simplifying arrival and departure, especially for larger groups. The neighborhood itself is known for its friendly community and accessibility, making it easy for friends and family coming from different parts of the city to convene without hassle. Being part of a family-oriented area adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making it feel safe and community-driven. The nearby amenities and the lively local scene encourage visitors to explore or combine their skating trip with other activities such as dining out or shopping. This balance of easy accessibility, community spirit, and supplementary options makes AZ Ice Arcadia a convenient yet compelling destination for group outings.
How does AZ Ice Arcadia accommodate beginners and experienced skaters alike? AZ Ice Arcadia caters to both beginners and seasoned skaters by providing carefully tailored programs and facilities that meet differing levels of skill and confidence. For newcomers, particularly children, the rink offers introductory “Learn to Skate” classes designed to build foundational skills in a friendly and supportive setting. These classes ensure that beginners feel comfortable and gain confidence before moving on to more advanced skating. For experienced skaters, including figure skaters and hockey players, dedicated times and spaces allow for jumps, spins, practices, and competitive games without interference. The rink also makes available rental skates in a wide variety of sizes, including options up to size 14, ensuring even the largest feet can glide smoothly. Safety recommendations such as helmets and gloves demonstrate the rink’s commitment to protecting all participants. This layered approach allows all skill levels to coexist and enjoy their time on the ice, making every group member feel included and catered to.
Why is AZ Ice Arcadia a fantastic place for children and families? AZ Ice Arcadia is notably family-friendly, creating an environment where children can enjoy themselves safely while parents relax or join in the fun. The facility’s summer camps are a highlight for kids, offering a mix of skating, games, crafts, and snacks that keep children engaged and active during school breaks. The camp’s structure includes both on-ice and off-ice activities, providing variety and stimulation beyond just skating. Public skating sessions welcome children with affordable prices and skate rentals that fit their smaller feet comfortably, complemented by amenities like helmet recommendations to keep them safe. The rink’s atmosphere encourages family interaction, where parents and children can learn together or watch others participate in figure skating and hockey events. This nurturing environment fosters physical health, social skills, and joyful experiences that make AZ Ice Arcadia a preferred destination for family outings.
What amenities enhance the meetup experience at AZ Ice Arcadia? Beyond the ice and activities, AZ Ice Arcadia offers several amenities that enhance any meetup. The on-site restaurant and bar allow guests to enjoy a variety of food and beverages without leaving the building, making it easy to transition from skating to dining or relaxing sessions. This setup supports extended socializing among groups, from light snacks to shared meals or drinks. The facility is well-maintained with clean locker rooms, skating gear rentals, and helpful staff to assist with questions or needs during the visit. Continuous video coverage is available online, allowing visitors to relive or share their skating moments with friends who couldn’t attend. Moreover, various membership and pricing options make planning group visits flexible and budget-conscious, which appeals especially to frequent visitors and larger parties. Together, these amenities create a comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable setting that complements the active ice experience.
How do special events and membership options contribute to group meetups? AZ Ice Arcadia hosts special events that add excitement and variety to group meetups, including competitive figure skating sessions, hockey matches, themed skate nights, and seasonal camps. These events provide unique opportunities for groups to bond over shared interests or new experiences, making visits memorable beyond the usual public skating. The rink’s membership options offer frequent visitors perks such as discounted rates, priority booking, and exclusive event invitations, which can help groups plan regular meetup schedules cost-effectively. Members often benefit from enhanced customer service and community feel, further encouraging repeat visits and strengthened social connections. Through these special events and memberships, AZ Ice Arcadia supports not only casual visits but also long-term engagement among friends and families, building loyal, vibrant communities centered around the ice rink experience.