When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon
Why Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon offers a singular outdoor skating experience that blends natural beauty with urban splendor in the heart of downtown Chicago. This quarter-mile ice ribbon meanders through Alpine-style trees and thematic climbing structures, providing skaters with an immersive journey that feels like a winter wonderland escape while still framed by Chicago's iconic skyline. The ribbon is a seasonal highlight from mid-November through early March, making it a cherished winter tradition for locals and tourists alike. It features skate rentals, lockers, and a warming area for relaxation and comfort after enjoying the ice. The vibrant ambiance is enhanced by twinkling lights that create a festive atmosphere perfect for friends and families seeking to meet and enjoy an active, scenic outing together. The design encourages continuous skating in one direction on its undulating, uniquely shaped track, adding a playful challenge that suits various skill levels. Beyond skating, Maggie Daley Park offers captivating views and the charm of nature interwoven with cityscape, making it an outstanding venue for social gatherings, celebrations, or casual meetups. The Ribbon's combination of engaging physical activity, scenic surroundings, and sociable environment presents a magical winter destination worth including on any Chicago seasonal bucket list.
Here's what people think of Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon
As of recent, Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1489 reviews.
User reviews of Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon generally reflect a positive consensus, substantiated by an overall rating of 4.6 from nearly 1,500 reviews. Many visitors praise the Ribbon's unique design and scenic integration, highlighting its length, winding path through natural landscaping, and the stunning views of the Chicago skyline as stand-out features that contribute to a memorable skating experience. The festive atmosphere, especially during the holiday season with decorated lights and a lively crowd, garners commendations from families and casual skaters. Rental services and supportive amenities like warming areas and lockers also receive favorable mentions for convenience. However, some negative feedback centers on operational challenges and rink conditions. Users report interruptions due to ice resurfacing taking considerable time, leading to closures and frustration as the ice requires maintenance after periods of use. The rink's curved design and railing structure, while architecturally interesting, present difficulties for beginners, with concerns over limited hand grip space and the safety risks of the railing slightly overhanging the ice. Additionally, the unidirectional path requires skaters to complete the circuit once committed, which some newcomers find restrictive. Pricing for skate rentals is also noted as relatively high by some. Despite these issues, many reviews conclude that the Ribbon provides a fun and unique skating venue that, with some improvements, stands out as a delightful winter attraction in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
T A
Such a fun thing to do! I have never seen a skating place that isn't a rink! It was wonderful to be outside, the sun was shining. This place is very well-run. You get your skates, you can put your stuff in a locker and then you can skate as long as you want until they have to resurface the trail. Highly recommend buying tickets in advance.
SJ Lee
I visited here again with my husband this time! Always very pleasant experience, but the woman who gives me shoes wasn’t nice. She gave me wrong sized shoes, so I was back to her to change my shoes. The person before me came to exchange their shoes because they were soaked, and she immediately handed me those shoes without even checking the size. I didn’t want wet shoes so I said that I want size 7 and dry shoes. After saying it multiple times, I was finally able to get the right shoes. The skating rink is excellent and very fun. People skate in an orderly manner. I’d love to visit again next time.
Bharathi Vineet Rao
Wonderful experience. Your visit to Chicago is incomplete in winter if you don't visit Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating rink. Make sure to book in advance as they get sold out pretty quickly. The kids loved it. You can rent the skates and skate for more than an hour. There is paid parking next to the park.
James
A unique experience compared to your classic ice skating rink as one is able to go in a lovely loop. There are uphills and downhills and the path is actually quite wide, so it never felt too crowded. They play pop songs from the 2010s while one skates. HOWEVER, the quality of the ice is subpar at best. I found it to be scuffed up, slushy, and not well-maintained. One can bring their own skates and pay $5 for a session or skate for free during the 11 AM session. Note that it is recommended to make reservations ahead of time as sometimes it can be quite busy. Even with a reservation, one will still need to wait in a long line to check-in and receive their skates. We waited half an hour just to get on the ice! There are two porto-potties for bathrooms, a small cafe, and no lockers for shoes, but the area is rather safe for no shoes to get stolen.
Max Moroz
$21/person for weekends. Don't worry about arriving early. The 2 hour session is too long for most people using rental skates. Come after the rush. No bags are allowed on the ice. Reservations required if you want to skate weekends.
How to reach Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon
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Why Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon with your friends? This vibrant winter destination offers an unmatched combination of outdoor fun, breathtaking scenery, and a lively urban atmosphere that makes it ideal for group meetups. Imagine gliding on a unique quarter-mile ice ribbon that weaves through lush Alpine-style greenery and impressive climbing walls, all while having the stunning Chicago skyline as your backdrop. Whether it’s a holiday tradition or a spontaneous winter adventure, this setting not only provides a joyful activity but also a memorable experience that strengthens bonds. The rink’s seasonal charm is enhanced by twinkling lights, a cozy warming area, and convenient amenities like skate rentals and lockers, ensuring comfort for every guest. The Ice Skating Ribbon is designed to accommodate all skill levels, making it perfect for families, friends, or coworkers wanting to celebrate together in a festive, energetic environment. The experience goes beyond just skating; it’s about creating joyful moments in a space that feels both festive and refreshing — a true winter bucket list destination that offers both the adrenaline rush of skating and the warmth of shared experiences.
What activities are available at Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon for groups? The primary attraction is, of course, the ice skating ribbon—a unique, 1,000-foot long curling path of ice that snakes through the picturesque sections of Maggie Daley Park. This distinctive design allows multiple groups to skate simultaneously without feeling crowded, offering a continuous flow that supports both casual skaters and those eager for a more vigorous glide. Skate rental services provide figure and hockey skates in a wide range of sizes, so everyone in your group can find a comfortable fit without hassle. For novices or younger guests, skate assist sleds are available to help boost confidence on the ice and make the experience accessible for skaters with physical disabilities as well. Beyond skating, the park offers scenic walking paths and climbing areas nearby, which can be incorporated into a day's plan to mix activity and relaxation. The rink’s warming area invites friends and families to take breaks and connect over hot beverages, rounding out the group's outing with chances to socialize off the ice.
Why is Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon perfect for a group meetup? Its location in downtown Chicago makes it easily accessible to locals and visitors alike. Set within one of the city’s most picturesque parks, it offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle while still providing spectacular views of the iconic skyline. The park and rink emphasize a family-friendly and social atmosphere, marked by festive lighting and comfortable facilities that encourage lingering. Reservation-required sessions help maintain a safe, enjoyable skating experience by limiting crowd size, which is especially important when coordinating a gathering and wanting to avoid overcrowding. For groups planning a special occasion or holiday party, the rink management even facilitates private rental options, allowing exclusive use of the space to enhance the experience. Lockers and storage options help groups manage belongings with ease, so guests remain comfortable as they move between skating and other park offerings. All these factors create a seamless experience where planning, logistics, and enjoyment come together smoothly.
How do the environment and amenities enhance the group experience at Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon? The setting of the skating ribbon is truly one-of-a-kind, surrounded by manicured trees, Alpine-style climbing walls, and natural landscaping that transports skaters away from the city's noise and into a serene, winter wonderland. The juxtaposition of this natural ambiance against the shimmering Chicago skyline provides stunning photography opportunities and a unique visual experience that complements the activity itself. The venue is complete with modern conveniences: skate rentals covering a wide size range (men’s up to size 15), a warming area for comfort during cold days, and lockers offering secure storage options. The rink also supports inclusivity through skate assist sled availability for skaters needing extra support, ensuring that everyone can participate in the fun. Additionally, on-site management handles weather-related operational updates with clear communication, meaning groups can plan with confidence. This fusion of nature, urban beauty, accessibility, and thoughtful services elevates each group visit from a simple outing into a well-rounded social event filled with comfort and charm.
What makes the Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon an unforgettable seasonal destination? Its annual opening from mid-November through early March coincides with the best of Chicago’s winter festivities, placing it at the heart of holiday celebrations and seasonal traditions. The ice ribbon transforms every visit into a festive occasion with subtle holiday decorations, twinkling lighting, and the inherent joy of skating outdoors in crisp weather. The rink's design amplifies the communal spirit by allowing groups to skate together yet maintain enough space to accommodate everyone safely. Visitors can complement their skating sessions with hot chocolate or snacks from the nearby Rink Café, enhancing the social experience. Moreover, the ribbon’s popularity—reflected in its solid 4.6-star rating from nearly 1,500 reviews—indicates consistent visitor satisfaction and underscores its reputation as a premier Chicago winter destination. These factors combine to make Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon not just a place to skate, but a cherished locale for making seasonal memories with loved ones.
How can groups best plan their meetup at Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon? Because the rink requires advance reservations for all skaters, whether they bring their own skates or rent on-site, groups should book early—especially during peak holiday weekends—to secure preferred session times. The skating sessions are scheduled in blocks throughout the day and evening, offering flexibility for group plans that may include dinner or other nearby entertainment. Groups should consider renting lockers to safely store belongings and take advantage of the warming area to rest between skate sessions or to socialize comfortably. Communication about skate sizes ahead of time can help expedite the rental process upon arrival. Finally, groups interested in exclusive use should inquire about private event bookings, which provide a personalized experience ideal for celebrations like birthdays, work parties, or special gatherings. Attentive management and clear policies on cancellations and weather closures help groups adjust plans as needed with peace of mind.
In summary, Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon is a remarkable winter spot designed for exhilarating group fun against the stunning backdrop of Chicago’s cityscape and natural park setting. From skating along a beautiful, twisting ice path to warming up with friends in a cozy lodge, the venue offers a variety of reasons to rally with loved ones. Its thoughtful amenities, festive ambiance, accessibility accommodations, and prime downtown location combine to create an experience that feels both magical and effortless. Whether it’s a family outing, a gathering of friends, or a corporate winter event, Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon provides a perfect blend of active entertainment and social connection that makes any meetup memorable year after year.