Have you ever been ice skating at Slice of Ice in downtown Milwaukee’s Red Arrow Park? The rink is actually larger than the one at Rockefeller Center in New York City!
This year, a new café is opening just in time for the season—Biggby Coffee will offer warm drinks and snacks for families to enjoy.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit:
Season Details
Opening Day:
The rink opens for the season on Friday, Dec. 13, with a special celebration. Free skate rentals will be available from 4–6 p.m., and local officials, including Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, will give opening remarks at 3:30 p.m.
Regular Hours:
- Sunday–Thursday: 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
- Friday–Saturday: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Holiday Hours:
- Dec. 24: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Dec. 25: 4 p.m.–11 p.m.
- Dec. 26–31: 10 a.m.–11 p.m.
- Jan. 1: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
January & February Hours:
- Sunday: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (skate rentals start at 11 a.m.)
- Monday–Thursday: 11 a.m.–8 p.m. (skate rentals start at 2 p.m.)
- Friday: 11 a.m.–10 p.m. (skate rentals start at 2 p.m.)
- Saturday: 11 a.m.–10 p.m. (skate rentals start at 11 a.m.)
Admission & Rentals
Price:
- Free to skate if you bring your own skates!
- Skate rentals: $11 for adults (18+), $8 for youth (17 & under), and $5 for pre-scheduled school and nonprofit groups.
Special Rental Options:
- Polar Pals: Available for just $1 (+ $5 refundable deposit or photo ID). Perfect for kids and beginners, thanks to sponsorship from the Milwaukee Admirals.
- ADA Ice Sleds: Free ice sleds are available for skaters with mobility impairments on a first-come, first-served basis. Call ahead at (414) 289-8791 to reserve.
Skate Sharpening: $7 per pair.
Location & Parking
The rink is located in Red Arrow Park, across from the Marcus Center parking structure. Street parking is also available, but expect to walk a bit.
What We Love About Slice of Ice
- The Stunning Downtown View
Surrounded by Milwaukee’s skyline and festive holiday lights, the rink offers a magical winter experience. - The Zamboni Breaks
Every hour or so, the Zamboni smooths the ice, giving skaters a chance to rest and enjoy the view. - The Warming House
Rent skates, warm up with Biggby Coffee’s drinks and snacks, and relax by the cozy fireplace inside. - Inclusive Fun
With Polar Pals and ADA ice sleds, everyone can enjoy the rink, whether they’re skating for the first time or a seasoned pro.
Additional Tips
- Dress warmly and wear layers to stay cozy.
- Arrive early for skate rentals or Polar Pals as they can run out quickly.
- Don’t forget your camera—this is a picture-perfect winter destination!
Looking for more skating spots? Check out our Roundup of the Best Places to Ice Skate in Milwaukee for even more family fun.
Looking for more ideas to make the most of winter? Check out our guide to 100 Fun Things to Do in Winter for sledding spots, indoor fun, and more.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
