When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
McFetridge Ice Rink (Indoor)
Why McFetridge Ice Rink (Indoor) is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
McFetridge Ice Rink (Indoor), located within the McFetridge Sports Center in Chicago, offers an exceptional venue for meeting friends and enjoying ice skating in a welcoming environment. This NHL-regulation size rink features seating for 1,200 spectators, making it ideal for both spectators and participants alike. Whether you are an experienced skater or a beginner, the facility provides an inviting atmosphere with a wide range of skating programs including figure skating, hockey lessons, freestyle ice sessions, synchronized skating, and summer skating camps. The rink is supported by comprehensive amenities such as skate rentals, locker rooms, and showers, ensuring comfort and convenience during your visit. Additionally, the Center is fully accessible to people of all physical abilities, broadening its appeal to diverse groups. Located on California Avenue between Addison Street and Irving Park Road, the rink is easy to find and offers ample parking. Outside of ice skating, the Sports Center also features indoor tennis courts, a fitness center, and dance studios, anchoring its reputation as a community hub for sports and wellness. With activity available 18 hours a day, seven days a week, McFetridge Ice Rink is a vibrant spot to gather with friends, participate in youth and adult programs, and enjoy year-round recreational activities.
Here's what people think of McFetridge Ice Rink (Indoor)
As of recent, McFetridge Ice Rink (Indoor) holds a 4.6-star rating based on 70 reviews.
Reviews from visitors to McFetridge Ice Rink generally highlight a positive experience, reflected in its strong 4.6-star rating based on 70 reviews. Many patrons praise the quality of the NHL-regulation size ice rink and the variety of programs available for all ages and skill levels, including group skating classes and hockey sessions. The availability of both a main rink and a smaller studio rink is appreciated, providing flexible options for skating enthusiasts. Positive reviews also commend the friendly and professional staff who contribute to a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for beginners and advanced skaters alike. Moreover, users value the convenient location, ample parking, and the rink’s accessibility for people with disabilities, underlining inclusion as a significant strength. However, some negative feedback occasionally notes issues such as crowded times during peak hours, which can affect the skating experience, and occasional challenges with scheduling or availability of public skate times. A few reviews mention the desire for updated or expanded facilities or more frequent cleaning and maintenance. Overall, the reviews paint a picture of a well-regarded local sports center that offers valuable services to its community with minor areas for improvement. Prospective visitors can expect a robust facility with comprehensive programming, friendly staff, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Todd Finch
This place was surprisingly clean and well maintained. Didn't deal with any staff directly but not did I need to as the hockey game was well organized. The locker rooms were hilariously small but very clean. This place was a great rink for a hockey game!
john lawless
Do not go here if you're trying to practice ice skating with children. You will be bombarded with 10 year old hockey kids darting sideways back and fourth, from the center to the wall, not in a circle like everyone is supposed to. And adults darting as fast as they possibly can cutting you off and swerving around you, knocking people over. Not to mention the wanna be figure skater that randomly stops in front of you trying to do a spin or randomly cuts 90° without looking. Utter free for all and where are the employees that work there in charge of order amongst the chaos? Casually strolling along in a horizontal line 5 deep just chit chatting amongst themselves with blinders on like there's no problem at all. This place has zero management. Zero rules enforced. If you want order, go to the suburbs like I will from now on. People seem to behave better there, and employees actually care. I would've loved this place if I was 18 and I wanted to drink a beer while skating. I guarantee I would've gotten away with it. Hell, I bet u could smoke weed in here and nobody would care. Mayhem.
Margo Rosado
We came here as a group for public skate for the first time ever. They would not allow any children to use the red walkers to help them skate. When asked why they said there were too many people and it was considered a hazard so they were allowed for all other sessions except public skate on weekends which made no sense to me. So multiple children falling isn’t a hazard? Why not limit the amount of people skating then? Many children in my group did not want to continue simply because they could barely stand on the ice and kept hurting themselves. So what was supposed to be a fun birthday event wasn’t worth the money or time at the end of the day.
Jonathan Douglas
Great ice facility on the north side with plenty of programs to offer for people of all ages. Features a large main rink and a smaller half studio rink connected by a wide back hallway. The arena itself is definitely dated, but well maintained, which is perfectly durable considering most hockey, figure skating and free-skate programs are quite affordable. There aren't many other amenities such as refreshments or skate sharpening, but at least there are places in the neighborhood.
A N N A Pleitt
We've done various classes here, including adult yoga, kids tennis, kids learn to skate, figure skating, and hockey. The river dogs program is a great intro to hockey without the crazy parents :) my daughter is 2 sessions into figure skating and she loves it, loves her instructor. Open skate is fun, usually not to crowded either.
How to reach McFetridge Ice Rink (Indoor)
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Why McFetridge Ice Rink (Indoor) may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at McFetridge Ice Rink (Indoor) with your friends? Because it blends the excitement of ice skating with the warmth of community in a lively, year-round setting. Whether you're a seasoned skater, a hockey enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and active way to gather, McFetridge offers an exceptional environment that accommodates all skill levels. Situated inside the McFetridge Sports Center, this premier indoor ice rink in Chicago delivers a cool escape from the daily grind, fostering camaraderie amid its bustling, energetic atmosphere. With a 4.6-star rating based on 70 reviews, guests consistently praise the rink for its welcoming vibe, excellent facilities, and accessibility. Rallying here with friends means immersing yourselves in a place where laughter resonates on gleaming ice, challenges are met with teamwork, and memories are etched during group outings. Beyond the ice, the rink’s ample seating and modern amenities ensure everyone in your party stays comfortable and engaged, whether participating actively or cheering from the sidelines. Hosting a meetup here invites your group to share in an exhilarating experience that’s both socially satisfying and physically invigorating, making McFetridge a prime destination for reconnecting through sport and fun.
What activities can you enjoy at McFetridge Ice Rink that make it ideal for a group meetup? First and foremost, the centerpiece is its NHL-size indoor ice rink, perfect for hockey games and recreational skating alike. The rink operates nearly 18 hours a day, seven days a week, accommodating a variety of skating experiences—from public skating sessions open to all, to stick and puck practice for hockey players looking to sharpen their skills. Those seeking structured activity can enroll in one of the many skating classes ranging from beginner to advanced levels, including group lessons designed for youth aged four and up as well as adults, making it easy for everyone in a group to find a fitting challenge or fun introduction. In addition, freestyle ice time offers skaters an opportunity for independent practice, while synchronized skating teams and special events such as annual competitions and spring ice shows inject variety and excitement. For hockey enthusiasts, adult leagues and pick-up games provide an excellent way to bond over friendly competition. These diverse activities encourage groups to engage collectively or split into smaller teams, creating dynamic social experiences centered around movement and play.
Why is McFetridge Ice Rink the perfect place for hosting a group meetup? Its thoughtful design and rich amenities elevate any gathering beyond the typical outing. The rink features seating for up to 1,200 spectators, making it easy for groups to watch games, cheer on friends, and enjoy the communal atmosphere together. Lockers and showers are available for convenience, helping visitors stay fresh and comfortable throughout their visit. The facility’s accessibility caters to people of all physical abilities, ensuring that all friends and family members can participate and enjoy the experience equally. Additionally, the rink’s location inside the broader McFetridge Sports Center provides access to fitness areas, tennis courts, and dance studios, allowing groups to tailor their visit to diverse interests or extend their meetups into multi-activity days. An onsite pro shop offers skate rentals and expert advice, reducing any barriers for newcomers to ice sports. Coupled with ample adjacent parking and central positioning in Chicago’s California Park neighborhood, McFetridge ensures that coming together here is both logistically straightforward and deeply rewarding.
What makes the ice skating programs at McFetridge stand out for groups seeking quality experiences? The rink offers well-structured instructional group classes for all ages and skill levels, emphasizing safety, skill-building, and fun. Beginner skaters can gain confidence through lessons that start with the basics, while more advanced skaters refine techniques through targeted drills and freestyle practice sessions. Skating camps, including summer camps, provide immersive programs that combine learning with enjoyable social interaction, ideal for youth groups or families wanting a themed activity day. Synchronized skating teams train here, adding a creative and team-building dimension to the facility’s offerings. The annual ISI competitions and ice shows hosted on-site bring spectators and participants together in celebratory events that highlight community spirit and artistic expression on ice. This comprehensive approach means that whether friends want a casual skate, skill development, or to participate in organized events, they find supportive programming that caters directly to their goals and group dynamics.
How does McFetridge Ice Rink’s environment encourage group fun and social connection? The rink is alive with energy, full of guests who bring a shared passion for ice sports and active living, creating an effortless social vibe for meetups. Its wide hours of operation allow groups to arrange visits that fit diverse schedules, from early morning skating sessions to late-night hockey scrimmages. The facility often buzzes with youth programs packed with local families, lending a community feel that welcomes new visitors into an existing network of activity. The combination of recreational activities and competitive sports means groups experience both high-energy play and relaxed moments of camaraderie on the sidelines. Whether it’s sharing tips during a skate lesson, teaming up for a hockey game, or just enjoying snacks and warm beverages afterward, McFetridge offers myriad ways to connect beyond just skating, ensuring every meet-up has elements of shared enjoyment and friendship building.
What practical benefits make McFetridge Ice Rink a convenient meetup spot for large groups? The rink’s adjacency to a large parking lot means that even bigger groups or families with multiple vehicles face no hassle arriving and departing. Its location in California Park is easily accessible via major routes, saving precious meetup time for actual activities rather than travel. Inside, locker rooms and showers facilitate longer visits, allowing groups to freshen up if planning multi-hour events or combining skating with other sports activities available in the McFetridge Sports Center. The rink’s rental services for skates reduce the need for everyone to bring their own equipment, simplifying logistics especially for those new to ice skating. This thoughtful infrastructure, combined with a staff committed to guest experience, means hosting your friends or family meetup here is smooth, stress-free, and focused entirely on enjoyment.
Are there additional sports and wellness features at McFetridge to complement your ice rink meetup? Yes, McFetridge Sports Center extends beyond ice skating with six indoor tennis courts and four outdoor tennis courts, hosting competitive and recreational tennis programs for all ages. A fitness center overlooking the rink provides a convenient space for warming up or cross-training, enhancing the athletic appeal for groups with diverse interests. The facility also includes a yoga studio and dance studios, offering options for friends or families who might want to diversify their gathering with wellness and movement classes. The inclusive design and broad programming ensure that a meetup at McFetridge can extend into a full day or series of days tailored uniquely to your group’s preferences, blending competitive sport, fitness, and leisure.
How does McFetridge’s community reputation enhance its appeal for group gatherings? With a strong 4.6-star user rating from 70 reviews, many visitors commend the center for its clean, well-maintained facilities and friendly, professional staff. Users highlight the rink’s balance of a welcoming environment with high-quality amenities, ensuring that first-timers and regulars alike feel valued and engaged. The presence of well-organized youth programs further illustrates the center’s community focus, making it a favorite neighborhood hub for families and friends seeking active social opportunities. An atmosphere of inclusivity and encouragement permeates the center, multiplying the positive experiences one can expect when gathering a group here, whether for fun skating, skill development, or spectating inspiring ice events.
What special events and group opportunities does McFetridge Ice Rink offer to enhance your time together? The facility runs seasonal ice shows and competitions such as the Spring Ice Show and the ISI annual competition which provide unique, festive occasions to rally your group as spectators or participants. These events foster community pride and offer memorable experiences beyond everyday skating. Additionally, options for private lessons tailored to group sizes let friends or families engage in more personalized instruction or team-building on ice. The availability of adult hockey leagues and rat hockey sessions create ongoing opportunities for groups to compete regularly, making the rink not just a one-time visit spot but a destination for ongoing connection through sport.
What should groups plan ahead for when visiting McFetridge Ice Rink? To maximize the experience, booking sessions and classes in advance is advisable, especially for larger meetups or group lessons, as the rink is popular all year round. Checking the online ice rink calendar helps align visits with desired programs or public skate hours. Renting skates onsite simplifies preparations for new skaters but bringing personal equipment is also an option for more experienced participants. Considering the availability of locker rooms and showers, groups can prepare for extended visits with suitable clothing and hydration. Lastly, planning some post-skate social time at nearby cafes or picnic spots in California Park can round out the outing, further cementing the social connections sparked on the ice.
McFetridge Ice Rink (Indoor) offers a comprehensive and vibrant setting for group meetups, combining the thrill of ice sports with excellently maintained facilities and a community-centered atmosphere. Its varied skating programs, extensive amenities, and accessible location make it an outstanding choice for friends or family looking to share active, fun-filled days together. Whether your group is looking to skate, play hockey, watch local competitions, or simply enjoy a welcoming space to socialize, McFetridge delivers a top-tier experience guaranteed to foster lasting memories.