When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
Ice Den Scottsdale
Why Ice Den Scottsdale is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ice Den Scottsdale is a premier destination for ice sports enthusiasts and a fantastic place to meet up with friends in the Scottsdale area. This state-of-the-art facility features three NHL regulation ice surfaces, making it one of the largest and most comprehensive ice sports centers in the region. Whether you're interested in watching a high school hockey game, participating in adult open freestyle skating, or learning to skate with family and friends, the venue offers diverse options for all ages and abilities. The rink includes the Coyotes Rink, which hosts Arizona High School Hockey Association games and is viewable from the comfortable 18° Bar & Grill, creating a great social atmosphere for spectators and visitors.
With convenient access off the 101 freeway and ample parking, Ice Den Scottsdale has established itself as a welcoming community asset over the past two decades. Beyond the ice, the facility offers a range of amenities including a pro shop stocked with top-brand hockey equipment, a dedicated off-ice training center called Ice Den Performance, a café for snacks, and the Mountainside Fitness Platinum Center gym. Groups can also enjoy corporate outings, sled hockey, and specialized hockey academies like Total Package Hockey. This vibrant mix of activities and amenities makes Ice Den Scottsdale an excellent place to gather, stay active, and enjoy quality time with friends.
Here's what people think of Ice Den Scottsdale
As of recent, Ice Den Scottsdale holds a 4.6-star rating based on 631 reviews.
User reviews of Ice Den Scottsdale highlight a generally positive experience, reflected in its strong 4.6-star rating from over 600 reviews. Many visitors praise the exceptional quality and maintenance of the ice surfaces, noting how the facility caters well to all levels of players from beginners to advanced athletes. The variety of programming—from youth hockey to adult freestyle skating and specialized training programs—appears to be a strong selling point that keeps patrons coming back. The onsite amenities, including the 18° Bar & Grill and the pro shop, receive frequent commendations for enhancing the overall experience and providing a comfortable environment to relax and socialize.
Positive reviews often mention the friendly and helpful staff, the convenient location with ample parking, and the engaging community atmosphere that makes it feel like a second home for regulars. The availability of multiple rinks also allows for great flexibility in scheduling and activities.
Negative feedback mostly centers on occasional crowding during popular events or public skate sessions and challenges with traffic flow when exiting the facility. A few customers have noted waiting times for certain programs or rink availability at peak times. However, management provides guidance on alternative exits to ease traffic congestion.
Overall, the reviews showcase Ice Den Scottsdale as a reputable, well-equipped ice sports center with strong community ties and excellent facilities. While it can get busy, the positive aspects far outweigh the drawbacks, making it a favored destination for ice skating and hockey in the Scottsdale area.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mathew Benson
Had a blast! This place is amazing. If you are older I would probably go in the evening because of the traffic jam of young ones with the walkers but I definitely recommend!
Will Riba
Went to eat after a soccer game across the street. Server was friendly, food was good. It's not a Michelin star restaurant but nothing was cooked poorly. If you're in the area and want a decent meal and friendly service you can't go wrong.
Matt Morgan
Can’t say enough about the learn to skate program. My oldest daughter isn’t wanting to continue next session so they let her join her sister & I in Pup & Parent for her last skate. She had a great time and left the ice with a huge smile on her face!! I really appreciate you all making this possible ❤️
Fart Masta
Absolutely fantastic work on making sure the locker rooms and lobbies are really clean, only downside is not enough chairs in the main lobby when there are 6 teams worth of parents all trying to sit down :)
Diana Tucker
Just had my husband's skate sharpened by a gentleman named Lance and he did such an amazing job. He took the time to show us how unlevel they were and educated us on how he was able to fix them. We appreciate his help so very much!
How to reach Ice Den Scottsdale
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Why Ice Den Scottsdale may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ice Den Scottsdale with your friends? Because Ice Den Scottsdale offers an exceptional blend of fun, activity, and social connection in a cool, inviting environment perfect for groups. Whether you and your friends are novice skaters or seasoned pros, this is a place where laughter, competition, and teamwork come together on the ice. The facility's welcoming atmosphere caters to people of all ages, making it ideal for family outings or friend meetups. Ice skating is a dynamic and engaging activity that fosters camaraderie while helping everyone get active in a joyful way. The venue is designed to accommodate groups comfortably, with features that promote both fun and safety. Plus, the Ice Den’s strong reputation—reflected in a solid 4.6-star rating from over 600 reviews—attests to the quality of experience you can expect every time. Gathering your friends at Ice Den Scottsdale is more than just a meet-up; it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories while sharing a unique, energetic experience that stands out from ordinary get-togethers.
What activities does Ice Den Scottsdale offer for groups and why is it perfect for hosting a meetup? Ice Den Scottsdale features multiple ice rinks where groups can engage in various ice-based activities. From public skating sessions designed to be family and kid-friendly—with music and a festive atmosphere—to private ice rink rentals for exclusive group events like birthday parties, family reunions, or corporate outings, the options are diverse. Private ice rentals give your group exclusive access to an entire rink, facilitating everything from casual skating parties to broomball and ice hockey games, fostering friendly competition and team spirit. The facility also hosts skating clinics and classes for all skill levels, which can add a fun learning element to your meetup. When not on the ice, guests can enjoy amenities such as the Chilly Bean Café, featuring hot and cold snacks and beverages, as well as a small boutique and a professional pro-shop. This wide range of activities and amenities makes Ice Den Scottsdale not just an ice rink but a comprehensive social destination where groups can bond over shared experiences.
How does Ice Den Scottsdale accommodate group events and what makes their private ice rentals special? The venue provides opportunities for private ice rentals, a unique and engaging option for those seeking exclusivity and personalized experiences. Private ice rentals allow your group to have sole access to a full sheet of ice, enabling activities from skating to broomball or hockey without distractions or interruptions from the public. Although birthday party packages are no longer offered, these private rentals can be tailored to your group’s particular interests and needs by booking through an inquiry form. This option suits parties of various sizes and occasions, including special celebrations or corporate team-building events. However, due to limited ice availability in the region, booking early and flexibility are essential. The exclusivity of having an entire rink to yourselves combined with the friendly, professional environment of the Ice Den makes these private events truly memorable and special for groups seeking a fun, active, and distinctive gathering spot.
What public skating options are available and how do they enhance a group meetup? Public skating sessions at Ice Den Scottsdale run two hours with a friendly, family-oriented vibe. These sessions feature music catering to all ages, and include a 20-minute intermission, making it convenient to rest and socialize without leaving the rink. Importantly, safety is a priority; jumps and spins are prohibited during public skating to ensure everyone—especially beginners—can skate comfortably and confidently. For more advanced skaters looking to practice complex techniques, freestyle sessions are offered separately. The Chilly Bean Café onsite enhances the experience with a variety of refreshments including freshly brewed coffee, snacks like hot dogs and pretzels, and sweet treats such as Dippin’ Dots. This combination of activity and comfort makes public skating a superb choice when rallying friends for a casual, enjoyable outing on the ice, giving everyone a chance to skate at their own pace while sharing the excitement.
What other offerings at Ice Den Scottsdale complement a fun meetup? Beyond skating and rentals, Ice Den Scottsdale partners with neighboring facilities like the Fred Astaire Dance Studio – North Scottsdale to offer dance lessons that complement skating activities, especially for those interested in enhancing artistry and movement on ice. These lessons teach popular dances such as the Waltz, Tango, Quickstep, Cha-Cha, and Rumba, led by professional ballroom dancing champions. For groups who want to add variety or try new skills together, these dance sessions provide a joyful and warming experience. Additionally, Ice Den Performance, located just west of the main rink, is a state-of-the-art training center tailored for ice sports athletes, offering elite coaching and custom training programs. Whether your group includes aspiring athletes or enthusiasts, these facilities augment the Ice Den experience with educational and athletic opportunities. Combined with the welcoming atmosphere and well-trained staff who prioritize kindness and fun, these offerings enrich your meetup, turning a simple group gathering into an engaging and holistic icy adventure.
How does the atmosphere and customer experience at Ice Den Scottsdale contribute to a memorable gathering? Visitors consistently praise Ice Den Scottsdale for its friendly staff and well-maintained facilities, ensuring that your group feels welcome and cared for. The layout includes comfortable viewing areas, like a bar and grill that overlooks the rink, perfect for group members who want to relax and watch while others skate. The venue is lively and inviting without being overwhelming, blending the excitement of ice sports with a casual community feel. Its reputation as the official training center for the NHL’s Phoenix Coyotes and its three ice rinks busy with leagues and public skating reflect its importance in the local sports scene, adding an element of prestige to your meetup. Safety measures are thoughtfully implemented to accommodate all ages and skill levels, helping everyone enjoy the experience without worry. These aspects combine to make Ice Den Scottsdale a place where your group outing feels special, whether you’re skating together or sharing refreshments and laughs poolside.
What makes Ice Den Scottsdale stand out among other amusement and activity venues in the Phoenix-Scottsdale area? Ice Den Scottsdale’s unique position as a dedicated ice sports facility in a desert region sets it apart as a refreshing and exciting alternative to typical meet-up spots. The ability to enjoy an ice rink and related activities amid the warmth of Arizona’s climate offers novelty and thrill for both locals and visitors. Unlike general entertainment centers, it caters specifically to skating and ice sports interests with well-maintained rinks, professional coaching, and diverse programs ranging from beginner lessons to elite training. The combination of multiple rinks, event flexibility, café amenities, and the option for private rentals supports a wide spectrum of social gatherings, from casual group fun to formal events. This specificity and expertise create an atmosphere where groups can bond over shared interest in ice skating or just enjoy a cool escape together. The consistently high customer ratings and enthusiastic reviews further underscore its top-tier status as a meet-up destination in the area.
What logistical details should groups consider when planning a meetup at Ice Den Scottsdale? Advance planning is crucial because public skating sessions require online registration in advance to ensure availability, and private ice rentals are highly limited due to the demand and overall reduced ice availability in the region. Groups should submit Private Ice Inquiry Forms early if they want an exclusive rental, and be prepared for potential scheduling challenges. Appropriate attire and gear, such as warm clothing and proper socks, are recommended for comfort on the ice. The venue provides skate rentals, but bringing your own skates can streamline the experience. Additionally, consider the group’s skill level when selecting sessions—public skating works well for mixed-abilities, while freestyle and clinic sessions suit more experienced skaters. The café and viewing areas offer a welcoming environment for members who are less interested in skating but want to socialize and support their friends or family. These factors, when thoughtfully managed, help maximize the enjoyment and ease of your meetup at Ice Den Scottsdale.
Why choose Ice Den Scottsdale for fostering connections and making memories? Ice Den Scottsdale is more than a skating rink; it’s a vibrant community hub where active fun meets social warmth. For groups seeking to strengthen bonds through shared experiences that combine physical activity, entertainment, and relaxation, it offers an unmatched setting. The blend of expert coaching, versatile programming, exclusive event options, and casual amenities creates an inclusive environment ideal for all ages and interests. Whether celebrating milestones, holding casual gatherings, or engaging in sportsmanship, Ice Den provides an atmosphere that encourages laughter, teamwork, and friendship. Its sustained positive reputation attests to its quality, safety, and community spirit, making it a reliable and exciting choice for your next meetup with friends or family looking for something different and memorable.