When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Gallivan Center Ice Rink
Why Gallivan Center Ice Rink is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Gallivan Center Ice Rink, located at 239 S. Main St. in the heart of Downtown Salt Lake City, is an exceptional outdoor ice skating venue that blends urban vibrancy with winter recreation. This beautifully designed oval rink provides a quintessential winter experience for groups, families, couples, and solo visitors alike. Surrounded by city lights and festive holiday illuminations, the rink creates a magical atmosphere that invites guests to glide, twirl, and bond. Its central location within the Gallivan Utah Center—a year-round urban plaza featuring a lush amphitheater, public plazas, art installations, and event spaces—makes it an ideal meeting place for friends seeking a lively and scenic environment. Visitors can enhance their visit by warming up with hot cocoa from the rink's concessions, completing a memorable outing. The rink fosters a strong sense of community in downtown Salt Lake City by offering accessible, inclusive winter recreation as part of a vibrant urban hub known for events, concerts, and public gatherings. Operational for over three decades, this ice rink is cherished for its integration within a dynamic public space that supports diverse social and cultural activities year-round.
Here's what people think of Gallivan Center Ice Rink
As of recent, Gallivan Center Ice Rink holds a 4.5-star rating based on 113 reviews.
User reviews of the Gallivan Center Ice Rink consistently highlight the rink’s welcoming atmosphere, reasonable pricing, and excellent location. Many reviewers appreciate the cleanliness and safety of the environment, allowing parents to feel comfortable bringing children and teenagers to enjoy skating freely. Positive reviews frequently mention the festive ambiance during night skating sessions with city and holiday lights enhancing the experience. Visitors also commend the helpfulness of staff and the overall family-friendly vibe, making it a great place for social outings and date nights. On the other hand, some negative feedback includes occasional waits during peak hours and limited seating areas for resting or watching others skate. A few users indicated that rental skate quality could be improved and noted that the rink might close seasonally, which can disappoint visitors who prefer year-round ice skating options. Despite these critiques, most reviews conclude that the rink remains a standout amenity downtown, praised for its scenic setting, community feel, and ability to bring people together during the colder months. The Gallivan Center Ice Rink maintains a strong reputation as a social and recreational focal point within Salt Lake City's urban landscape, attracting both locals and tourists seeking a unique and enjoyable skating experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nikki Keyworth
My grandchildren and I had the best time there over the winter season! All of the people were friendly, and the ice rink was nice. They took the Zamboni around it several times to make sure that the scratches weren’t bad and it wasn’t wore down. The food was very good and surprisingly affordable! And all of the winter decorations are just wonderful!
Taylor Nelson
Beware they have terrible customer service. I purchased a gift card for my family to skate. It had an expiration date. Before it expired I called and asked if they would honor it the next season. They said yes. So now we want to use the gift certificate and they now changed their mind. Worst part is how rude they have been and completely unapologetic. Now I'm out a good amount of money.
Tess Obenauf
We arrived just in time for the fresh ice as the zamboni parked. It was the end of the day, an hour before closing and between freshly sharpened skates and rough ice, it is tough. Still, skating lessons paid off and I managed to stay upright the entire time. The rink was still filled, packed with all skill levels. Everyone was smiling, the music was cheerful with holiday spirit...The only reason it wasn't a perfect 5...the ice. 😒
Prashant Mandare
Conveniently located in downtown SLC. You can skate all day for $10 per person including skate rental. They do resurface the ice periodically. It's open till 10 pm during holidays. Great activity with kids.
Eli xx
The ice skating and atmosphere is great here, but the service was terrible. All of the employees except 2 of them were exceptionally rude to me and my friends, eating and drinking while preparing food, laughing and rough hosuing in the kitchen, and other rude things like commenting about the amount of food we ordered. honestly, they should get completely new staff because most of them were terrible
How to reach Gallivan Center Ice Rink
None
Website: None
Why Gallivan Center Ice Rink may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Gallivan Center Ice Rink with your friends?
Gathering friends and family at the Gallivan Center Ice Rink in downtown Salt Lake City makes for an unforgettable outing because this venue effortlessly combines fun, community, and urban charm in one accessible location. Nestled in the heart of the city, the rink is an inviting outdoor oasis during the winter months where laughter and conversation bounce off gleaming ice under twinkling city lights. The downtown setting provides a lively backdrop that enhances the shared experience, offering not only the joy of skating but also an energizing sense of connection to the city's vibrant culture and festive atmosphere. After skating sessions, friends can warm up together with hot cocoa or snacks from the rink’s concessions—perfect for cozying up and talking about memorable moments on the ice. With a solid 4.5-star rating across over 100 reviews, the rink’s reputation for quality and enjoyment ensures your group will have a top-notch experience. It’s much more than just ice; it’s an ideal urban meeting spot that fosters joyful memories through active engagement and the simple pleasure of being together outdoors in a beautifully lit space. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meetup, Gallivan Center Ice Rink offers the perfect environment to rally your group around shared fun and community spirit.
What activities can you enjoy at Gallivan Center Ice Rink?
Gallivan Center Ice Rink offers a variety of engaging activities that make it more than just a place to skate; it’s a hub for communal winter recreation. The primary attraction is the outdoor oval ice rink located right in downtown Salt Lake City, providing ample space for all skill levels to glide, twirl, or skate hand-in-hand. Beginners or those looking to improve can find a supportive environment, while more experienced skaters can showcase their skills or enjoy a friendly challenge. Beyond casual skating, the rink is often part of larger seasonal programming and special events which can include holiday-themed skate nights or community gatherings that fuse movement with celebration. The rink welcomes all ages, making it an inclusive space — children, teens, adults, and seniors alike can find their place on the ice. Rental skates are available on-site, so you don’t need to bring your own gear, easing participation for spontaneous meetups or visitors traveling light. The ice rink is complemented by festive lights and often accompanied by background music or city sounds, adding ambiance to each outing and enhancing the social atmosphere.
Why is Gallivan Center Ice Rink ideal for hosting a group meetup?
Gallivan Center Ice Rink is perfectly suited for group meetups for multiple reasons related to its design, location, and facilities. Situated in the lively downtown district at 239 S. Main Street, it is highly accessible by public transport and provides nearby parking options, simplifying logistics for groups coming from different parts of the city or even nearby towns. The rink itself is spacious, allowing groups to skate together or alongside other friendly skaters without feeling crowded. The rink’s design—an outdoor oval surrounded by the glowing cityscape and decorative lighting—creates a magical, photogenic setting ideal for capturing memorable moments with friends and family. Additionally, the on-site concessions stand offers warm beverages like hot cocoa and snacks to regroup and relax after skating, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that encourages socializing beyond just physical activity. The Gallivan Center area includes plazas and green spaces year-round, so groups can extend their meetup to enjoy walking, people-watching, or outdoor games before or after ice activities. Furthermore, the rink is part of a larger urban community space that hosts events and arts installations, enriching the meetup experience with cultural and entertainment options that appeal to diverse interests within a group.
What makes the location and atmosphere of Gallivan Center special?
The Gallivan Center’s location in the heart of Salt Lake City provides a distinctive urban appeal that enhances the rink experience. Unlike typical suburban ice rinks, this rink offers the vibrant energy of downtown, surrounded by towering buildings, festive light displays, and the hum of city life. This setting makes skating here feel like stepping into a winter wonderland amid a bustling metropolis. Evenings at the rink are especially magical as the city lights and seasonal decorations create a warm and inviting glow, perfect for gathering groups for fun and relaxation. The sense of safety and accessibility is heightened by the well-maintained and thoughtfully designed public space, which includes open plazas and an amphitheater that further contribute to the community feel. Visitors appreciate how the Gallivan Center blends recreation with cultural engagement, providing not only exercise and entertainment but also a genuine “people place” where local residents, workers, and visitors can connect. The rink’s presence since the early 1990s and its continued evolution (including a LEED Gold certified upgrade) demonstrate the city’s commitment to maintaining a high-quality recreational space that meets the needs of a diverse urban population.
How accessible and convenient is Gallivan Center for visitors?
Gallivan Center Ice Rink’s downtown Salt Lake City location assures easy accessibility for groups, making it a practical choice for meetups. The rink operates during popular winter months, with hours that extend into the evening, allowing friends or families to gather after work or school. Its address at 239 S. Main Street places it within walking distance of multiple transit routes and downtown amenities such as restaurants, shops, and hotels, so guests can round out their visit with meals or other activities nearby. The rink’s operators provide skate rentals and maintain good signage and customer service, simplifying the experience for visitors unfamiliar with the facility or ice skating in general. Importantly, the rink does not require reservations for casual skate sessions, allowing for flexible planning and spontaneous group outings. The urban setting also benefits from ample lighting and security measures, reassuring visitors about safety during all open hours. Whether arriving via public transit, car, or on foot, groups will find reaching Gallivan Center straightforward and convenient, reducing stress and making the meetup more enjoyable from start to finish.
What additional experiences does the Gallivan Center offer year-round?
Though famed for its winter ice rink, the Gallivan Center itself is a vibrant year-round urban destination that enhances the meetup beyond skating alone. Throughout the year, it hosts a wide variety of community events including concerts, art exhibits, lectures, and festivals, making it a cultural hub as well as a recreational spot. The Gallivan Center’s plaza and amphitheater spaces invite visitors to linger and enjoy free or low-cost entertainment, providing opportunities to tailor group gatherings around special events or ongoing programs. Public art installations and workshops add an educational and creative dimension, encouraging groups to engage with Salt Lake City’s artistic community. The surrounding green spaces and seating areas around the rink are excellent for picnics or casual chats, blending natural elements with the urban setting. This multi-use approach to the Gallivan Center means that meetups can be varied and memorable, combining ice skating with food, culture, and relaxation tailored to the preferences of each group member.
How does Gallivan Center Ice Rink foster community and inclusivity?
Gallivan Center Ice Rink stands out as a communal space dedicated not only to recreation but also to inclusivity and social connection. The rink welcomes people of all ages and abilities, providing an inviting place where individuals and groups can come together regardless of skating skill. Rental options like skate aids for young children or less confident skaters ensure everyone can join the fun. The rink’s location in a major urban center allows it to draw a diverse clientele, fostering interactions between locals, visitors, workers, and families. As part of the Gallivan Utah Center—a privately owned but publicly used urban green space—it embodies a successful model of shared community resource supported by local businesses and property owners, which helps maintain high standards and program variety for all. Seasonal events and holiday celebrations held at the rink also serve to bring people together in joyous and inclusive ways, reinforcing the Gallivan Center’s role as a true “people place.” This sense of community is a key reason why so many visitors give it a high rating and return year after year with friends and family.
What practical tips help you make the most of your visit?
To maximize your experience at Gallivan Center Ice Rink when visiting with friends or family, plan around a few simple tips. Arrive early or choose less crowded times, such as weekday afternoons or early evenings, to enjoy more space and quieter skate sessions. Dress in warm layers and bring gloves as it is an outdoor rink exposed to winter weather. Consider renting skates on-site to save hassle but come early if your group is large to allow time for fitting. Warm up afterwards with hot drinks available at the concessions stand to extend your stay comfortably. Check the Gallivan Center website or social media for scheduled special events or themed skate nights that might add extra fun to your meetup. Lastly, if you want to create a full-day outing, combine your rink visit with a meal at one of the many downtown eateries within walking distance. These small preparations will ensure your gathering at Gallivan Center Ice Rink is seamless, fun, and memorable for everyone involved.