When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
United Skates of America, Inc.
Why United Skates of America, Inc. is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
United Skates of America, Inc., founded in 1971 and headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest national roller skating rink chains in the United States. With 12 family entertainment centers across states including Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Rhode Island, it offers a vibrant and inviting atmosphere ideal for social gatherings and fun outings. These venues are well-equipped with smooth skating floors, quality equipment rentals, and engaging music that creates a lively ambiance for skaters of all ages and skill levels. Many locations feature well-maintained facilities with snack bars and pizza offerings, making them perfect for group meet-ups, birthdays, or casual recreational visits. The rinks often host themed night events such as adult skate sessions with R&B music, attracting a diverse crowd eager to enjoy both physical activity and social interaction. With decades of experience, attentive staff, and a commitment to cleanliness and safety, United Skates of America is a standout choice for those seeking a nostalgic yet contemporary roller skating experience.
Here's what people think of United Skates of America, Inc.
As of recent, United Skates of America, Inc. holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1861 reviews.
User reviews for United Skates of America across multiple locations highlight a generally positive experience with an average rating around 4.3 out of 5. Visitors often praise the rink ambiance, noting the clean and well-kept facilities, quality sound systems, and friendly, helpful staff that enhance their experience. Many reviewers appreciate the nostalgic feel of skating under colorful lights accompanied by good music. Popular locations often earn accolades for their spacious skating areas, welcoming environments, and fun themed skate nights, bringing families and friends together for joyous outings. On the positive side, customers frequently mention enjoyable food options, attentive service, and well-maintained skate rentals. On the other hand, some negative feedback touches on occasional issues such as busy times leading to crowding or wait times for rental equipment. A few reviews mention variability in maintenance across different sites or areas where amenities could be improved. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains favorable, with many visitors returning for years and recommending United Skates of America as a reliable, fun destination for roller skating and social entertainment. The long-standing reputation and multiple locations make it a beloved skating community hub that continues to attract skaters of all ages.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Anais Ra Ilunga
A time was had! Thank you for your hospitality, great customer service and organization. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves! Bugg Elementary STEM school field trip. Everything is science 🧫 🔬⚗️🧪🛼🛼
DL 3562
This is really the only skating place left in the Raleigh area to take the kids to. Not in the best area of town so occasionally the crowd will reflect this. Bring your own skates if you have them as the rentals are $7. They have walkers too if it's your first time. It's a good sized place but wish there were more arcade games and food options. The heavy set guy that worked the snack bar gave some attitude when told we wanted Icees because the order kiosk said "No Icees" which meant he'd have to ring them up. Other than that a decent experience and the kids had fun.
Iesha H
I visited this skating rink on a Saturday and was pleasantly surprised that it wasn’t too crowded. The space was clean, well-maintained, and clearly cared for, which made for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The music was upbeat and fun, creating a great vibe on the rink and keeping the energy high throughout my visit. While the snack options were a bit limited, it didn’t take away from the overall atmosphere. It’s definitely a cool and laid-back place to hang out and skate, whether you're looking to have fun with friends or just get in a few laps. I’d absolutely recommend it for a casual outing or a fun weekend activity!
Allison Brockman
I had my friends birthday party here (we are a group in our 20’s) on the Saturday hip hop theme night. The staff was so kind and made it a very special day from answering our questions promptly and playing our song request to helping us carry inside our cake and some presents and decorations. I highly recommend celebrating here!
Adriana Pearson
I took my kids roller skating here recently for their first roller skating experience. You do need to complete a waiver for each person, which you can do ahead of time. However, the waiver is only good for 24 hours, so you will more than likely need to complete one each time you go. I would suggest getting here at the start of the skating window since at the end of the skating time, everyone must exit the rink so you maximize your money and experience by getting there early. The rink is a nice size. The skates we rented were in pretty good condition expect for your youngest who's strings were a little hard to lace up with the end of the string being unraveled. They had a snack bar with food and drinks and also had a small arcade area. There were lockers to put your stuff in. They were not busy when we attended so I didn't get a locker. They have free wrist guards and "skate supports" for kids who need help to stay balanced while skating. They did play a game while we skated which my kids enjoyed. All of the staff was friendly. We will definitely be returning.
How to reach United Skates of America, Inc.
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Why rally at United Skates of America, Inc. with your friends? Because it offers a vibrant, energetic atmosphere perfect for bringing together groups of all ages for fun, shared experiences. With a respectable rating of 4.3 based on over 1,800 reviews, this rink has proven to be a destination where people feel welcome and entertained, making it an ideal venue for gatherings. Whether you're aiming for an active outing or just a fun hangout spot, this place caters well to both. The combination of skating, food, arcade games, and other attractions means your group won’t run out of things to do or talk about. Moreover, the environment here creates natural opportunities for socializing, laughter, and making memories, which all contribute to strong bonding moments among friends or family members. The staff’s friendly approach and excellent customer service—as highlighted by patrons—help ensure your group’s needs are met, letting you focus on enjoying quality time together. This makes United Skates of America a compelling choice for those seeking both activity and camaraderie under one roof.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at United Skates of America? First and foremost, roller skating and rollerblading remain the heart and soul of this venue. The rink features a spacious skating area that welcomes all skill levels—from first-timers to seasoned skaters. The casual, upbeat vibe during skate sessions encourages everyone to have fun, regardless of ability. Besides skating, the venue offers an engaging arcade with multiple games that appeal to competitive spirits or those just looking for casual fun. The laser tag arena, though small, adds an exciting dimension for groups who enjoy team-based challenges and active play. Another highlight is the rock climbing wall, which presents a thrilling physical challenge for those eager to try something beyond wheels on the floor. Complementing the activity options is a food court serving a variety of snacks and meals. While the food prices can be a bit on the higher side, the convenience of dining on-site means your group can refuel without needing to leave the premises. This combination of activities makes the venue particularly well-suited for groups, as there is something for everyone, ensuring nobody feels left out.
Why is United Skates of America perfect for group meetups? One major advantage is its ability to accommodate large numbers of people comfortably, with ample space in and around the rink for guests to gather. The social aspect of skating is a powerful draw, as friends and family can glide side-by-side or cheer each other on as they try new moves. The arcade and laser tag areas provide alternative options for members of the group who might prefer less physical activities, making it easier to satisfy diverse interests without splitting up. The venue's layout facilitates easy movement between activities so your group can flow from one entertaining feature to another naturally, keeping the energy lively throughout the visit. Friendly and helpful staff are on hand to ensure your party runs smoothly, whether you need assistance renting skates or organizing group events. This environment nurtures a sense of community and togetherness that makes United Skates of America a reliable choice for social gatherings ranging from casual meetups to celebrations like birthdays or team outings.
What should you expect about the customer experience at United Skates of America? Many reviews emphasize the warm and attentive customer service that creates a welcoming atmosphere. Employees frequently go above and beyond to ensure visitors are satisfied, which significantly enhances the overall experience for groups. For example, attentive staff members keep guests informed about food wait times and deliver meals personally, which adds a personal touch appreciated by customers. While some reviews mention that the skating rink can be quite chilly, especially if you’re not actively skating, this is easily managed by dressing warmly or taking advantage of the indoor venue’s climate control. The bustling pace and constant activity ensure that excitement never wanes, but also that you can always find a quiet corner to relax if needed. Additionally, the accessibility of management and friendly coworkers helps make problem-solving straightforward and stress-free. Essentially, good service adds up to a smooth, enjoyable experience that encourages repeat visits and word-of-mouth recommendations.
How does United Skates of America cater to different age groups and skill levels? The rink’s inclusive environment is particularly suited to families and mixed-age groups. Beginners are welcomed and supported, while more experienced skaters can take advantage of the spacious floor to practice skills or engage in friendly competition. Kids and teens can have a blast with arcade games and laser tag, while adults often appreciate the fitness benefits of skating or the social ambiance. Safety rules are clear and enforced, providing peace of mind for parents and group leaders. Special events and theme nights frequently cater to families and younger crowds, adding variety and excitement to every visit. In these ways, United Skates of America is a versatile venue able to balance fun and safety, making it an excellent choice for group activities involving diverse participants.
What makes the food and amenities at United Skates of America stand out? Although food pricing has been noted as somewhat higher than expected by some visitors, the convenience of having a variety of snacks and meals available on-site is a major plus when hosting a group. You can enjoy typical rink favorites like pizza, burgers, and kid-friendly options without the hassle of leaving the location. This means your group can stay energized and nourished throughout the visit without interrupting the flow of fun. Beyond food, other amenities such as locker rentals, skate rentals, and seating areas contribute to a comfortable, full-service environment. The arcade tokens system and laser tag fees are designed to be affordable for group play, encouraging everyone to take part without financial stress. These thoughtful features demonstrate the center’s commitment to providing an integrated entertainment experience that anticipates the needs of groups and helps simplify planning and execution of get-togethers.
In what ways can United Skates of America accommodate special group events or parties? For birthday parties, corporate outings, or community gatherings, United Skates of America offers tailored packages and spaces that enhance your celebration. Their team can assist with event planning, from reserving areas to organizing group activities, so your meetup runs smoothly and efficiently. Customized packages often include rink time, rentals, arcade tokens, and food options bundled at a reasonable price point, making budgeting easier for planners. The venue’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with colorful lighting and music, creates a festive backdrop perfect for marking special occasions. Many groups find the ability to combine physical activity, games, and casual dining under one roof significant in reducing logistical challenges that come from coordinating multiple venues. These conveniences make it an attractive location for groups looking both for ease and a memorable shared experience.
How is United Skates of America viewed by its visitors and employees? Reviews show a predominantly positive outlook where customers appreciate the fun environment, friendliness, and cleanliness of the rink. The staff are often described as engaging and approachable, which adds to the sense of community around the venue. Employees themselves report a fast-paced but rewarding workplace with friendly coworkers and management that listens, though like any busy entertainment spot, they caution about occasional stressful moments. Visitors praise the customer service and highlight specific employees who make their experience special, indicating a personal connection between patrons and the team. The consistent positive ratings reflect a well-run business providing enjoyable value to its patrons while creating a pleasant work setting. This balance is crucial to sustaining a venue that remains welcoming and lively for long-term group meetups.
How can you make the most out of your visit to United Skates of America? Arriving as a group during peak open skating hours ensures you experience full energy and social interaction. Planning to try multiple activities, like starting with skating, moving on to arcade games, and finishing with laser tag or climbing, allows your group to discover each other’s interests and build camaraderie. Booking in advance for larger parties is recommended to guarantee space and streamline your experience. Don't forget to dress comfortably and wear layers to manage the cooler indoor temperature between skating sessions. Lastly, engaging with the staff can enhance your experience from helpful tips on skate sizes to recommendations on the best games or food items. By embracing the full spectrum of what the venue offers, your meeting will be fun, well-rounded, and memorable for everyone involved. United Skates of America truly stands out as a dynamic place to rally, play, and connect with friends and family.