When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Polar Ice Cary
Why Polar Ice Cary is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Polar Ice Cary, nestled in Cary, North Carolina, is a premier ice skating facility that serves as an exceptional venue for socializing, recreation, and skill development. This establishment offers a broad array of ice-related activities suitable for children and adults alike, such as public skating sessions, figure skating, hockey leagues, curling, and skating lessons. Its welcoming environment and varied programs make it an ideal gathering place for friends and families to enjoy active, engaging fun together. The facility is well equipped to host group outings and seasonal camps, providing opportunities for participants to learn and compete in a supportive atmosphere. Beyond just skating, Polar Ice Cary also fosters community connections by facilitating social events and offering programs that appeal to all interest levels. Located conveniently at 1410 Buck Jones Rd., Cary, the venue boasts professional management and user-friendly booking through their online system. This combination of comprehensive ice sports options and community-focused events establishes Polar Ice Cary as a top choice for meeting up with friends, celebrating special occasions, or simply enjoying recreational ice activities in a welcoming setting.
Here's what people think of Polar Ice Cary
As of recent, Polar Ice Cary holds a 4-star rating based on 581 reviews.
User reviews of Polar Ice Cary average around 4.0 stars from 581 reviewers, indicating generally positive impressions with room for improvement. Positive feedback frequently highlights the facility's cleanliness, friendly and helpful staff, and variety of programs available for all skill levels. Reviewers appreciate the well-maintained ice surfaces and the opportunity to participate in diverse skating activities, including public skating and hockey. Many users find the scheduling and registration system convenient and praise group events and youth camps as well-organized and enjoyable for participants. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as crowded sessions during peak hours, limited parking availability, and challenges with communication or customer service responsiveness during busy times. A few patrons express desires for expanded hours or more frequent public skate times. In conclusion, while Polar Ice Cary is broadly regarded as a premier and community-friendly ice skating destination with robust offerings and a positive atmosphere, addressing some logistical concerns related to capacity and customer service could further enhance user satisfaction and experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kathleen Walker
Worst experience EVER! First the website to pre-purchase tickets was a nightmare - could not get everyone in our party registered kept trying to tell us we were not the right age and needed to check with the "team" (we were trying to buy tickets for "open skate". Once there, as per the other reviewers, the place is a dump and a dark dump. Lights only on far side. Seats only on one end (other end was cluttered with equipment). When we tried to sit on the benches on the lit side were told it was "off limits" by "security" . And yet . . . there were teenagers speeding around the rink on the "assisted" devices meant for small beginning skaters and parents who were speeding around "driving" these devices with their children in front of them. No security anywhere around. AND . . . there was a boy - about 13 years old - who was repeatedly shoving other children to the ice and when we complained to security they just smiled and shrugged their shoulders. HORRIBLE. Will never return.
Bugs Subu
This is a great place for families to hang out! The kids really appreciate and enjoy skating on the ice! The place is well maintained. The little restaurant/food place is great to both stay warm and grab some snacks and beverages! Overall, we love this place and we hit it at least once a season.
Frank Auriemma
The rink is in a convenient location and the staff is extremely friendly and helpful. Nonetheless, this rink is really starting to show it's age and with other planned rinks in the Triangle area I don't know how much longer this "mainstay" will be around. As much as I love this place and the staff. The building only continues to deteriorate more. Ceiling tiles are falling, the ice conditions are subpar at best. There are parts where you can see the ground underneath it. The Hurricanes and/or Polar Ice should really look into purchasing the adjacent lot nextdoor and building a new rink.
Madison Bernstein
TLDR - don’t sign up for classes here. My 6-year-old was in the learn to skate course. These classes are split by age, so he had to be with 6-12 year olds. The rink requires everyone to “pass” this basics class before taking any other lessons. So not only was my son the youngest in a large age range, he was also in class with kids who clearly knew how to skate but were required to take this course. Maybe this wouldn’t have been so bad if the coach or the helpers had given my son extra attention because he clearly needed it more than the older kids who knew how to skate, but that didn’t happen. I don’t think the coach spoke directly to my son once. The helpers did actually speak to him, but not much. I don’t understand how the youngest, smallest, least experienced skater could get so little help in a learn to skate class. Polar Ice should really do a skills test to allow kids to take other lessons, because they’re needlessly forcing kids who can skate into learn to skate lessons. They also need better structure in the lessons. My son’s coach looked about 19 and I think he created the lessons himself which were too fast paced for a basics class. These lessons weren’t cheap and they failed my son in every aspect. There are other ice skating options in the triangle and I would highly recommend looking into those.
Rosey Pearl
it’s was a horrible experience. i came here hoping to have fun with my friend and it was the complete opposite. it was way too crowded to the point we could barley move. they also didn’t have any of the right skate sizes and gave me 2 right skates. the rink was already at complete capacity and then on top of that they spilt the rink in half for a birthday party making the rink even smaller and more dangerous. also nobody was wearing there mask and we were all crammed in. i’ve come here before and had a great time but this experience was awful.
Kathleen Walker
Worst experience EVER! First the website to pre-purchase tickets was a nightmare - could not get everyone in our party registered kept trying to tell us we were not the right age and needed to check with the "team" (we were trying to buy tickets for "open skate". Once there, as per the other reviewers, the place is a dump and a dark dump. Lights only on far side. Seats only on one end (other end was cluttered with equipment). When we tried to sit on the benches on the lit side were told it was "off limits" by "security" . And yet . . . there were teenagers speeding around the rink on the "assisted" devices meant for small beginning skaters and parents who were speeding around "driving" these devices with their children in front of them. No security anywhere around. AND . . . there was a boy - about 13 years old - who was repeatedly shoving other children to the ice and when we complained to security they just smiled and shrugged their shoulders. HORRIBLE. Will never return.
Bugs Subu
This is a great place for families to hang out! The kids really appreciate and enjoy skating on the ice! The place is well maintained. The little restaurant/food place is great to both stay warm and grab some snacks and beverages! Overall, we love this place and we hit it at least once a season.
Frank Auriemma
The rink is in a convenient location and the staff is extremely friendly and helpful. Nonetheless, this rink is really starting to show it's age and with other planned rinks in the Triangle area I don't know how much longer this "mainstay" will be around. As much as I love this place and the staff. The building only continues to deteriorate more. Ceiling tiles are falling, the ice conditions are subpar at best. There are parts where you can see the ground underneath it. The Hurricanes and/or Polar Ice should really look into purchasing the adjacent lot nextdoor and building a new rink.
Madison Bernstein
TLDR - don’t sign up for classes here. My 6-year-old was in the learn to skate course. These classes are split by age, so he had to be with 6-12 year olds. The rink requires everyone to “pass” this basics class before taking any other lessons. So not only was my son the youngest in a large age range, he was also in class with kids who clearly knew how to skate but were required to take this course. Maybe this wouldn’t have been so bad if the coach or the helpers had given my son extra attention because he clearly needed it more than the older kids who knew how to skate, but that didn’t happen. I don’t think the coach spoke directly to my son once. The helpers did actually speak to him, but not much. I don’t understand how the youngest, smallest, least experienced skater could get so little help in a learn to skate class. Polar Ice should really do a skills test to allow kids to take other lessons, because they’re needlessly forcing kids who can skate into learn to skate lessons. They also need better structure in the lessons. My son’s coach looked about 19 and I think he created the lessons himself which were too fast paced for a basics class. These lessons weren’t cheap and they failed my son in every aspect. There are other ice skating options in the triangle and I would highly recommend looking into those.
Rosey Pearl
it’s was a horrible experience. i came here hoping to have fun with my friend and it was the complete opposite. it was way too crowded to the point we could barley move. they also didn’t have any of the right skate sizes and gave me 2 right skates. the rink was already at complete capacity and then on top of that they spilt the rink in half for a birthday party making the rink even smaller and more dangerous. also nobody was wearing there mask and we were all crammed in. i’ve come here before and had a great time but this experience was awful.
How to reach Polar Ice Cary
None
Website: None
Why Polar Ice Cary may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Polar Ice Cary with your friends?
If you’re looking for a vibrant, fun, and active way to spend time with friends, Polar Ice Cary offers the perfect destination. Whether you and your group are seasoned ice skaters or novices eager to try something new, this premier ice skating facility caters to all skill levels and ages. Gathering at Polar Ice Cary guarantees more than just skating; it’s about creating lasting memories in a lively, communal atmosphere. The venue has a solid reputation, reflected in its steady 4.0-star rating from over 580 reviews, demonstrating consistent customer satisfaction. Here, you can escape the usual meetup routines and dive into an energizing, entertaining activity that fosters camaraderie, laughter, and friendly competition. The spacious rink accommodates groups comfortably, offering a safe and welcoming environment to enjoy ice sports or just glide around for fun. Plus, with flexible public skating sessions and options for lessons or hockey, everyone in your group will find something engaging to do. If you want to rally with friends in a place that combines physical activity, socializing, and a unique experience, Polar Ice Cary is the ideal spot.
What activities are available at Polar Ice Cary?
Polar Ice Cary provides a wide range of ice-related activities perfect for groups looking to spend quality time together. The most popular is public skating — open to all ages and skill levels — where you and your friends can enjoy gliding around the rink during scheduled times. These sessions happen throughout the week with varied pricing that includes skate rentals, so you don’t even need to bring your own skates. In addition, Polar Ice offers “Learn to Skate” programs for those who want to pick up skating skills or improve current abilities, making it an excellent choice if your group includes beginners. The facility also supports figure skating and hockey programs tailored for both children and adults, appealing to those who want a more organized, athletic experience. For students aged 18 and over, there are special late skate nights, creating a social atmosphere geared toward older groups. With skate aids available for younger kids under a certain height, parents can bring their little ones safely into the fun. These diverse activity options ensure your meetup can be as casual or as sport-focused as your group prefers.
Why is Polar Ice Cary a great venue for a group meetup?
Polar Ice Cary boasts numerous features that make it an excellent venue for group gatherings. The rink’s spacious layout allows multiple skaters to enjoy the ice comfortably without overcrowding, which is vital for safety and enjoyment during social meetups. The facility is designed to welcome families, friends, and community groups, creating an inclusive and friendly environment. Public admission includes skate rentals on many days, simplifying planning since your group won’t need to worry about bringing specialized equipment. Though the rink is primarily focused on ice skating, available amenities such as snack bars provide spaces for breaks and casual socializing off the ice. Furthermore, the venue operates on user-friendly software for schedule viewing and session sign-ups, making group coordination straightforward and convenient. The staff also facilitates birthday celebrations and special events arrangements with prior notice, so if your meetup doubles as a party or occasion, they can assist with accommodations. Overall, Polar Ice Cary’s blend of space, services, and flexible programming accommodates groups of friends or families looking for an active, memorable meetup location.
What should you expect about the environment and facilities at Polar Ice Cary?
Visitors to Polar Ice Cary can expect a well-maintained indoor ice skating environment that prioritizes patron comfort and safety. Being an ice rink, the temperature is naturally cold, so it’s a good idea to dress warmly or bring a jacket, especially if you plan longer visits or are sitting in the lobby areas. Seating is available for those needing to rest or help others change skates, although some reviewers have noted limited space for seating and gear changing, so coming prepared with portable seating or planning quick transitions might enhance your experience. Locker facilities appear limited or unavailable, so consider this when planning what to bring. The rink manages crowd sizes during public skating sessions to maintain a pleasant experience, but busy times—particularly weekends and holidays—can be crowded, so early arrival or weekday visits are ideal for quieter skating. While some past guest reviews have pointed out occasional management responsiveness issues, many skaters praise the facility for its quality ice surface and inclusive atmosphere. Overall, the physical space supports both casual skating fun and more structured ice sports activities.
How do pricing and scheduling work for a group visit?
Polar Ice Cary offers a structured pricing model that caters to different days and group needs. Public skating admission rates vary between weekday and weekend/holiday times, with weekday prices generally lower ($10 including skate rental) versus $12 for admission alone or $16 including rental on weekends and holidays. Children under five are charged a significantly reduced fee, making it especially affordable for families. The rink also offers specialized pricing on late skate nights for students 18 and older, which can be a nice perk for college-aged groups. Tickets can be purchased either online or at the door, allowing flexibility when planning your outing. To coordinate a group visit smoothly, it’s recommended to check the public skating calendar on their website for current schedules, which vary by day. If your group wants to book sessions, private rentals, or birthday celebrations, emailing the facility’s guest services is advisable for tailored arrangements. The rink enforces a two-hour prior notice for session cancellations to enable refunds or credits, which adds convenience and clarity for group organizers.
What safety measures and rules should groups be aware of?
Safety is a priority at Polar Ice Cary to ensure every guest has a positive experience on the ice. All skaters must follow the rink’s posted rules to maintain a safe environment. For example, certain moves like leg extensions are not permitted during public skating sessions to reduce risk of injury. Skate aids are available only for small children under 54 inches tall, supporting young or beginner skaters and ensuring they have assistance without compromising safety for others. Coaching during public skating is regulated, meaning instructors must follow rink protocols if training clients, preserving the recreational skating environment. The rink encourages respectful behavior among guests and staff to maintain a family-friendly atmosphere. Group organizers planning special events or parties should coordinate with management in advance to discuss arrangements and avoid disruptions during regular sessions. Following these rules will help your group enjoy the day safely and fully.
How can Polar Ice Cary accommodate groups with special events or celebrations?
Polar Ice Cary is equipped to handle more than just casual skating; it also accommodates group celebrations and special events with prior planning. Although unscheduled birthday parties are not allowed in the lobby or snack bar area during regular public sessions, those looking to celebrate a special occasion can reach out directly to the Guest Services Director to discuss options. This ensures that your group can have an organized, festive experience that fits the rink’s policies while allowing for cake, decorations, or other party elements as permitted. For larger or recurring group events, Polar Ice Cary staff are responsive to inquiries about private ice rentals or hosting meetups with tailored session times. This flexibility makes it an attractive venue not only for casual friend meetups but also for more formal gatherings such as team parties, youth group outings, or corporate events. Proper communication with management ahead of your planned visit will ensure a streamlined and enjoyable group celebration.
What makes Polar Ice Cary stand out compared to other local entertainment venues?
Polar Ice Cary distinguishes itself through its unique focus on ice sports combined with inclusive programming for all skill levels, from toddlers to adults, which many local entertainment venues do not offer. Unlike typical movie theaters or restaurant meetups, this venue promotes active engagement and physical fun, encouraging groups to bond through shared experiences on the ice. The rink’s variety of public skating, lessons, hockey, and figure skating programs also provide year-round entertainment options, not limited by weather or seasons. While some competitors might focus solely on hockey or figure skating, Polar Ice Cary’s full spectrum of ice activities makes it versatile and welcoming to diverse groups. Additionally, the facility’s integration with online tools for scheduling and registrations reduces logistical hassles commonly associated with group events. Together, these elements make Polar Ice Cary a distinctive, memorable place to rally your friends for a lively, healthful outing.