When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest
Why Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Located in the vibrant heart of Denver at 16th and Arapahoe Streets, the Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest offers a unique and festive environment perfect for gathering with friends and family. Opening its 13th season in late November until mid-February, this rink provides free public ice skating, making it an accessible winter activity for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, the rink creates a welcoming space where people can enjoy the crisp winter air while skating amidst the city's lively downtown atmosphere. Skate rentals are affordably priced, with options for both children and adults, and guests are welcome to bring their own skates. Beyond being a recreational spot, it marks the beginning of the holiday season in downtown Denver, becoming a hub for community engagement and celebration. The rink's connection to the Downtown Denver Partnership and Southwest Airlines as a presenting sponsor underscores its role as a key seasonal attraction offering not only daily skating but also opportunities for private events. Its convenient location and festive ambiance make it an excellent place to meet, socialize, and create lasting memories during winter months.
Here's what people think of Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest
As of recent, Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest holds a 4.1-star rating based on 160 reviews.
User reviews of the Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest generally convey a positive experience, reflected in its solid 4.1-star rating from about 160 reviews. Positive feedback often highlights the rink’s accessibility to the public due to free admission and moderately priced skate rentals. Visitors appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the rink’s downtown location, which allows for an enjoyable break while exploring the city. Many reviewers note the rink’s festive vibe and the quality of ice, which makes skating both fun and safe for all skill levels. Furthermore, users commend the staff's helpfulness and the rink’s ability to serve as an inviting winter gathering spot for families and friends alike. On the downside, some negative reviews mention occasional overcrowding during peak times, limited operating hours especially on weekdays, and sometimes the rental skates not being in the best condition. A few visitors also pointed out that the rink could benefit from extended hours or additional amenities. Despite these critiques, most users conclude that the Downtown Denver Rink is a worthwhile seasonal attraction offering a charming winter experience in Denver. It remains a popular location for holiday festivities and a convenient skating destination that balances free access with enjoyable amenities for the community.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shingo S. Ishida
Southwest Airlines' downtown Denver ice rink is a cool little setup at the corner of 16th Street and Arapahoe, at the base of the Daniels & Fisher (a.k.a. Clocktower Office) Building in downtown Denver, steps from the 16th Street Pedestrian Mall. There are skate rentals and skating aids available, but it's free if you own skates. A tiny kiosk also sells warm beverages (coffee, hot chocolate, etc.). Depending on the day of the week, time of the day, etc. it can be VERY crowded or completely empty. Good for an hour or two of skating fun for self and/or your family, but it can get kind of crowded, esp. on weekends. Not bad for free, though!
Katie Arvidson
We had a wonderful time with our family. The lights were beautiful at night and the crowd wasn’t too bad initially (we arrived around 7:30). However, it got fairly crowded around 8:30 and a bit crazier with teenagers taking a lot of falls. We had to get the kids off the ice at that point. The staff were really nice and they had plenty of skate rentals available and trainer sleds for the kiddos, which made it fun. There was also a small kiosk selling canned beer, wine, coffee, cider, and small snacks. Plenty of places for others to sit and enjoy outside the rink too.
Emily Engelman
We hosted my son's 6th birthday celebration here and the staff did a great job of giving him the most special day! He loved having the ice to himself before opening. This was one of few places I could find in Denver that had the flexibility to accommodate a group of kids and parents together for a reasonable price. The booking process was easy, the ice was smooth, and location couldn't be beat! The only downside was that is was about zero degrees, but the crew didn't have any control over that. We would absolutely book here again :)
Marina Han
Went in soon after they opened at 10am (check their website for times). Ice was newly cleaned and only 3 people were on it. Decorations were cute but the rink was tiny!! And the rentals they had were really not great: they were full plastic casing, clip buckle style, not lace up, and hockey skates not figure skates, possibly with dull blades.
thomas degraff
We showed up at 935 on Saturday and they said no more skate rentals and we can have a coupon for another day
How to reach Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest
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Why Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest with your friends? This ice skating rink offers an unbeatable combination of accessibility, excitement, and ambiance, making it a perfect gathering spot that appeals to a wide range of interests and ages. Located in the heart of downtown Denver at Skyline Park, right along the lively 16th Street Mall, the rink is nestled among the city's skyscrapers with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, providing a unique urban winter setting. Whether you and your friends are seasoned skaters or trying it out for the first time, Downtown Denver Rink offers free admission and affordable skate rentals, lowering the barrier for fun. The rink is also known for its friendly atmosphere, with helpful staff and amenities that make group activities seamless and enjoyable, such as lockers for belongings and skating aids for beginners. You can easily extend your outing with nearby restaurants, shops, and festive entertainment, turning a simple skating session into an unforgettable celebration of friendship and winter joy. Overall, Downtown Denver Rink is a vibrant, inclusive destination that invites you and your friends to create lasting memories skating under the city lights and soaking up the festive energy of Denver’s winter season.
What activities are available at Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest and why is it ideal for group meetups? The rink primarily offers outdoor ice skating, a thrilling activity that blends exercise, entertainment, and social interaction. You can bring your own skates for free entry or rent skates onsite for a nominal fee, making everything hassle-free and accessible. Beyond open skate sessions, the rink hosts a variety of special programming and events throughout the season. These include live bands and DJs that provide an upbeat musical atmosphere to keep spirits high, family fun days that cater to all ages with games and interactive activities, and unique challenges such as Broomball competitions that inject an element of friendly competition for groups looking for something extra. The rink even offers free “Learn to Skate” lessons, which make it perfect for novice skaters in your party to gain confidence together. These diverse offerings make Downtown Denver Rink not just a place to skate but a hub where groups can share laughter, compete in friendly games, and engage with a vibrant community, perfectly tailored to create bonding experiences and joyful moments for any group size.
Why is Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest perfect for a group meetup? First, the rink’s central downtown location makes it incredibly convenient for friends or family coming from different parts of the city or beyond, with plenty of parking options and public transit nearby. This ease of access reduces stress and helps groups coordinate their plans effortlessly. The rink’s spacious layout ensures that skaters have room to enjoy the ice without feeling crowded, which is a key factor for group comfort and safety. Furthermore, the rink supports social interaction by providing benches and seating areas where friends can gather, chat, and relax between skating sessions. Additionally, because the rink is outdoors but centrally located, participants can easily combine skating with other group activities like grabbing food or hot drinks at nearby eateries along 16th Street Mall, turning a simple outing into a full day of shared experiences. Lastly, the welcoming atmosphere, combined with affordable prices and inclusive amenities, encourages people of all skill levels and ages in your group to participate, making Downtown Denver Rink an undeniably smart and engaging choice for hosting meetups.
What can you expect from the ambiance and facilities at Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest? The rink is set against Denver’s iconic urban backdrop, including the historic Daniels & Fisher clocktower, which lends a charming and picturesque vibe to the skating experience. At night, decorative lighting transforms the rink into a magical winter wonderland, perfect for creating cozy, memorable moments with friends or family. The Southwest Airlines branding pairs nicely with the rink’s festive and polished atmosphere, underscoring its connection to local culture and community support. Facilities are designed to accommodate group needs, with skate rentals, locker storage for personal items, and even carts to assist beginners or those who need help on the ice. The rink’s schedule often runs late on weekends, allowing later meetups for groups who want to enjoy the city evening ambiance while skating. There are also seasonal events like Valentine’s Day celebrations that add thematic fun to your visit. Overall, the rink’s ambiance is both lively and inviting, balancing the bustling energy of downtown Denver with the warmth of communal winter fun, making it a destination ideal for gatherings.
How do special events and programming at Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest enhance your group experience? Throughout the skating season, the rink offers a dynamic calendar of events that elevate the typical outing into something extraordinary. Live music performances and DJ sessions create a festival-like atmosphere that appeals to various tastes, encouraging groups to linger longer and enjoy the ambient energy together. Family Fun Days provide themed activities and entertainment that are engaging and inclusive, perfect for groups with mixed ages wanting to share quality time. Competitive events like the Broomball Challenge invite friends and families to team up and experience a playful, competitive edge on the ice, adding variety and excitement beyond casual skating. “Learn to Skate” lessons reduce any hesitation among beginners in your group, fostering confidence and camaraderie. These special events not only entertain but also provide unique and shared experiences that bond groups more deeply, making your meetup memorable and diverse in activity.
Why is the rink’s pricing and accessibility beneficial for groups? The Downtown Denver Rink offers free admission, which is an exceptional value for groups looking for a cost-effective outing without sacrificing fun and quality. Skate rental fees are low at around $2, or guests can bring their own skates at no cost, accommodating different budget levels perfectly. The rink’s policies support inclusivity and accessibility, accepting My Denver Cards for convenient rental transactions and offering amenities suitable for all ages and abilities. This affordability combined with high-quality facilities offers groups the chance to enjoy hours of entertainment without worrying about high expenses. Because the rink is open seven days a week throughout the winter season—typically from November through early February—groups can schedule visits that fit their availability, including extended hours on weekends. This flexible access makes planning group events simpler and more accommodating to diverse schedules and preferences.
What additional experiences nearby complement a visit to Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest? Situated next to the bustling 16th Street Mall, the rink is perfectly positioned for groups to extend their outing beyond skating. After warming up or cooling down on the ice, friends can explore a wide variety of nearby dining options ranging from casual cafes to full-service restaurants, offering everything from quick snacks to themed meals for group celebrations. Shopping opportunities abound with numerous retail stores and holiday markets during the season, perfect for picking up gifts or festive souvenirs. The proximity to live entertainment venues and cozy lounges allows groups to continue socializing in an inviting setting, especially after skating hours. In winter, the entire area is beautifully decorated with holiday lights and seasonal décor, enriching the festive spirit and providing perfect photo opportunities. This seamless integration of skating fun with city amenities creates a holistic, flexible, and exciting group meetup experience.
What safety measures and amenities support a group-friendly environment at Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest? The rink prioritizes guest safety by maintaining well-groomed ice surfaces and providing skate aids and carts to help newer skaters stay steady. Staff are attentive and trained to assist with rentals, safety concerns, or any on-ice support needed, ensuring a worry-free experience for everyone. Locker facilities are available for securely storing personal belongings, an important convenience for groups who want to avoid crowding their seating area with bags and coats. Benches and seating areas are ample and conveniently located so groups can comfortably rest or socialize off the ice. While the rink is outdoors, its location in a busy downtown setting offers a sense of security with plenty of foot traffic and well-lit surroundings. These combined safety features and amenities reassure groups that their meetup will be fun, comfortable, and secure, encouraging participation from friends and family of all ages.
How do the reviews reflect the group experience at Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest? With an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 from about 160 reviews, the rink is highly regarded for its welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. Visitors frequently comment on how the rink is a superb family-friendly destination, citing the cleanliness, friendly staff, and festive vibe as major positives. Many reviews highlight the affordability and accessibility of the ice skating amenities, noting how easy it is to bring friends and family together for a casual but memorable outing. Occasional comments mention peak times can be crowded, which is common for popular group destinations, but early arrival often mitigates this. Positive remarks about themed events and live entertainment underscore the dynamic group-oriented programming that enhances overall satisfaction. Overall, user feedback supports Downtown Denver Rink as a dependable and pleasant venue for hosting group gatherings during the winter months.
In summary, Downtown Denver Rink Presented by Southwest stands out as an exceptional venue for ice skating meetups with friends or family. Its central location, varied activities, festive ambiance, affordable pricing, and excellent facilities create a perfect recipe for memorable group outings. With special events and a welcoming atmosphere, it invites both new and experienced skaters to join in the winter fun, fostering connections and celebration in an unbeatable urban winter setting. Whether your group seeks casual skating, lively entertainment, or festive socializing, this rink offers a winter adventure right in the heart of Denver.