When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Buhr Park Ice Arena
Why Buhr Park Ice Arena is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Buhr Park Ice Arena is a vibrant, year-round destination located within the expansive 39-acre Buhr Park in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This facility transforms with the seasons, offering a covered, open-air regulation-size ice rink during the colder months, making it a favorite for ice skating, hockey, and family outings. The rink features a cooled subfloor that allows skating even when temperatures are warmer, and amenities such as a heated lobby, skate rentals, locker rooms, and restrooms enhance visitor comfort. Beyond skating, Buhr Park offers a compelling mix of recreational options including a large outdoor swimming pool for summer fun, picnic areas with barbeque grills, playgrounds, tennis courts, softball diamonds, and soccer fields, providing an ideal setting for friends and families to gather and enjoy diverse activities in a welcoming community environment. Notably, Buhr Park hosts themed skating events like “Funky Frosty Friday,” adding a unique, festive atmosphere. Its proximity to several residential neighborhoods makes it an accessible and cherished local hub for exercise, leisure, and socializing.
Here's what people think of Buhr Park Ice Arena
As of recent, Buhr Park Ice Arena holds a 4.6-star rating based on 152 reviews.
Reviews for Buhr Park Ice Arena consistently highlight the friendly and well-maintained environment that appeals to all ages. Visitors appreciate the rink’s quality ice surface maintained by a Zamboni machine and the covered open-air design that blends outdoor skating with protection from harsh weather. Positive feedback often points to the affordability of public skate sessions, the inclusive atmosphere for families and friends, and the fun special events held regularly. Many reviewers value the clean facilities, helpful staff, and convenient amenities like locker rooms and skate rentals, contributing to a pleasant skating experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional weather-related closures affecting skating plans, and a few users suggest improvements in parking availability and the handling of large groups, as the venue limits accommodating groups over 10 people. Others note that while the rink is open-air and covered, it can still be chilly during winter sessions, which some visitors find less comfortable. Overall, the reviews paint a picture of Buhr Park Ice Arena as a beloved and accessible community rink known for its friendly atmosphere and year-round recreational value, with minor operational challenges that are generally outweighed by the positive experiences shared by patrons.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ridwan Zia Kusumah
Cool place for ice skating; the rent is cheap ($9 total), and it's free for skating walkers! Hot chocolate is also only $2. Since the place is also used for ice hockey training, remember to check their operating schedule. I wish they had longer operating hours.
john siegel
Great place for kids. Nice pool that you can pay per visit if you don't have a pass. There is a kids pool with fountains and water toys as well. The pool area has lots of seating and picnic table if you want to bring snacks or have a meal. There is also an ice rink in the winter that is a roller derby rink in the summer. There are tennis courts and a baseball field as well.
Randy Robbins
My daughter joked that it was appropriately named with as cold as it was the day we played here. It was very cool to play in the rink and it appeared well kept. The only issue our teams had was it was snowing a blowing so the ice was covered in snow, especially on the team side of the ice, by the end of the game. Some parents shoveled some off between periods because it was getting hard to move the puck through. I don’t give it a lower rating before of that though. Great place to play and a nice lobby to warm up in if you get cold. Glad we got to play here.
Ruth Mella
I enjoy this place very much, this was the first indoor place I went ice skating at. They offer shoe rental and their entry price is very cheap ($5/kids, $6/adults + $4 skate rentals). They do have limited hours for public ice skating. The parking there is decent. There is enough room for large groups and they host hockey games/practices there after public skating which is cool to watch!
ravi daitota
Perfect place to be little adventures along with family. You may bring your own equipment or rent it for $8 ( as of 1/3/2025) from the office area. Arena is huge, well maintained. Rest rooms are clean, staff are friendly, helpful and professional. Hot beverages are available on site ( limted). There is a viewing area with chairs around gas fire pits if it's too cold to just stand and watch.
How to reach Buhr Park Ice Arena
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Why Buhr Park Ice Arena may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Buhr Park Ice Arena with your friends? Buhr Park Ice Arena is a prime spot for gathering your friends and family for a memorable, active outing that strikes the perfect balance between fun and fitness. With a stellar rating of 4.6 from over 150 reviews, it clearly resonates with visitors as a place that delivers both exceptional ice skating experiences and a welcoming atmosphere. Its outdoor, regulation-size ice rink offers a unique charm that indoor arenas cannot match, combining the exhilaration of gliding on ice with the crisp outdoor air and scenic views of the park surroundings. This makes it an ideal destination for groups looking to enjoy winter sports in a relaxed yet spirited environment. The arena’s well-maintained ice surface and supportive amenities, including skate rentals and a heated lobby for warming up, enhance the ease and enjoyment of your visit. Whether your group consists of seasoned skaters, hockey enthusiasts, or novices eager to learn, Buhr Park Ice Arena provides a common ground where everyone can share joyful experiences and create lasting memories together.
What activities are available at Buhr Park Ice Arena, and why is it perfect for group meetups?
Buhr Park Ice Arena offers a variety of ice-based activities that cater to different interests and skill levels, making it suitable for diverse groups. The primary attraction is public ice skating sessions where guests can rent skates on-site and enjoy the spacious outdoor rink. The rink’s cooled subfloor technology ensures the ice remains in excellent condition even when temperatures rise above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, extending the skating season from November through the end of February or beyond, weather permitting. This reliability means groups can plan outings with confidence, knowing the rink will be ready for action. For those interested in the sport, drop-in hockey sessions provide an energetic option to play with others, fostering both friendly competition and teamwork. Additionally, the arena offers skating lessons for beginners or those looking to refine their skills, with specialized equipment such as helmets and walkers available to support learners of all ages. The presence of locker rooms and a heated lobby with vending machines further adds to the convenience, allowing groups to relax, socialize, and recharge between skating sessions.
Why does Buhr Park Ice Arena’s setting enhance group experiences?
Located within the broader Buhr Park, a 39-acre public park featuring rolling hills, picnic areas, and other recreational facilities, Buhr Park Ice Arena’s setting elevates the group experience beyond the ice. The natural scenic beauty surrounding the rink creates a welcoming and festive environment that encourages social interaction and relaxation. After skating, groups can make use of nearby picnic tables and outdoor spaces to gather for snacks or meals, turning a sports outing into a full-day event. The park’s well-kept grounds offer additional recreational opportunities such as tennis courts, softball diamonds, and a children's play area, enabling families to engage in parallel activities while some members skate. This variety makes the ice arena a focal point within a larger venue designed for diverse interests, ensuring that everyone in a group, regardless of age or mobility, can find something enjoyable. The outdoor aspect of the arena also means groups can soak in fresh winter air and observe seasonal changes in the park, adding an element of nature appreciation to their visit.
How does Buhr Park Ice Arena support safety and accessibility for all group members?
Safety and accessibility are top priorities at Buhr Park Ice Arena, which contributes significantly to its appeal as a venue for group meetups. The facility offers properly maintained rental skates in a range of sizes, along with helmets and "walkers" — support aids for new skaters who need extra stability. This ensures that even those unfamiliar with skating can participate confidently and safely. The rink's open-air but covered design combines protection from harsh elements with fresh air circulation, reducing the risk of discomfort or illness during longer visits in cold weather. Heated indoor areas provide a warm refuge to sit and recover if needed. Furthermore, the arena enforces clear policies — for example, outside coaching is not allowed to maintain order and safety, and larger groups are advised to contact the facility ahead to ensure accommodation, which helps in organizing smooth group outings. Whether your meetup includes children, elderly participants, or intermediate skaters, the facilities and service staff support an inclusive and secure environment conducive to fun and friendship.
What seasonal features make Buhr Park Ice Arena an attractive destination during winter?
Buhr Park Ice Arena truly shines in the winter months, transforming into a lively gathering spot that combines sport with seasonal festivity. Since its outdoor rink is equipped with a cooled subfloor system, it can maintain ice quality despite fluctuating temperatures, ensuring consistent skating opportunities from late fall through winter. The arena’s open-air design allows visitors to embrace the winter atmosphere—fresh air, gentle breezes, and scenic snow-covered surroundings enhance the overall ambiance and excitement. Nearby outdoor heaters and a covered area provide warmth and comfort, encouraging longer visits and social mingling. The park also organizes special seasonal events such as the Buhr Park Boo Bash, which attracts families and groups eager to celebrate community spirit alongside their skating. This connection to the broader community and nature’s seasonality makes Buhr Park Ice Arena more than just an ice rink; it is a winter destination that offers dynamic experiences marrying recreation, celebration, and social bonding.
What amenities and conveniences enhance the group outing experience at Buhr Park Ice Arena?
Several amenities make Buhr Park Ice Arena a hassle-free and pleasant venue for hosting group events. Vending machines stocked with snacks and drinks offer quick refreshments without needing to leave the site, keeping energy levels high during busy skating days. Locker rooms and secure lockers provide safe storage for personal belongings, enabling visitors to enjoy activities unburdened. The heated lobby not only offers a place to warm up but also serves as a comfortable social space for groups to gather between sessions or rest periods. For those requiring rental equipment, the arena maintains a well-managed inventory of skates and helmets, ensuring your group can be outfitted on arrival. Accessibility features and facilities accommodate varying needs, making the venue welcoming for individuals with mobility considerations or young children. Overall, the supportive infrastructure combined with friendly staff presence guarantees that group meetups proceed smoothly and satisfy everyone’s comfort and convenience requirements.
Why do visitors consistently rate Buhr Park Ice Arena so highly?
Buhr Park Ice Arena has earned a 4.6-star rating from over 150 reviewers due to its combination of reliable, high-quality ice conditions, friendly atmosphere, and excellent facilities. Reviewers appreciate the arena’s well-kept ice that enhances skating performance and enjoyment for novices and experts alike. The outdoor setting, with its unique heated areas and scenic park surroundings, is frequently described as adding charm and comfort absent from typical indoor rinks. The availability of rental gear and safety equipment helps newcomers feel secure, while hockey sessions and skating lessons cater to enthusiasts and learners, respectively. Visitors also praise the helpfulness of staff and the convenience of amenities such as vending, locker rooms, and parking. Many reviews highlight Buhr Park Ice Arena as an ideal place to spend quality time with friends and family, supporting socializing in an active, refreshing environment. This combination of factors makes the arena a favored destination for group meetups in the Ann Arbor area, ensuring positive experiences that keep people coming back year after year.