If you’re a parent or caregiver in Milwaukee, winter often means finding fun, family-friendly activities to keep the little ones entertained.
Luckily, Red Arrow Park’s popular Slice of Ice skating rink has always been a go-to spot for outdoor fun, and now, there’s even more reason to make it a regular part of your winter plans.
This year, a brand-new café is opening right in the park, offering parents a cozy spot to warm up while the kids enjoy skating.
Introducing Biggby Coffee at Red Arrow Park
Opening this fall, Biggby Coffee will replace the long-vacant Starbucks space in Red Arrow Park, offering warm drinks, snacks, and a cozy atmosphere for families visiting the rink.
Perfectly timed with the kick-off of the skating season at Slice of Ice, this café is a welcome addition for parents looking for a place to relax by the fireplace while keeping an eye on their young skaters.
Owned by Milwaukee locals, Keith Washington and Curtis Grace, Biggby Coffee is known for its variety of beverages, including lattes, hot chocolate, cold brews, and even smoothies for those who prefer a cool treat.
For families on the go, they also offer grab-and-go breakfast sandwiches, muffins, and bagels—perfect for a quick snack after a few laps around the rink.
What You Can Expect at Slice of Ice
If you’ve never been, Red Arrow Park’s Slice of Ice is one of the most family-friendly winter attractions in downtown Milwaukee.
The rink is larger than the one at Rockefeller Center in New York City, making it a prime spot for fun and bonding time with your kids. Whether you’re bringing your own skates or renting on-site, the experience is always a hit with children of all ages.
Skate rentals are available, and if your child is a beginner, they can use a “Polar Pal” to help them stay upright on the ice.
The café will remain open beyond skating season, offering a place to stop whether you’re attending an event at the Marcus Center across the street or just enjoying a day in the city.
Pro Tips for Families
- Timing is Everything: Red Arrow Park is busiest during peak hours, so try visiting on weekday mornings for a quieter experience. The rink is open Monday through Thursday from 11 AM to 8 PM, and until 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, making it a great after-school or weekend outing.
- Parking: Convenient parking is available across the street at the Marcus Center’s structure, but there’s also street parking around the park. Be prepared for a short walk with your kids.
- Bring Your Own Skates: While rentals are available, it’s free to skate if you bring your own. This can save you some money, especially if you plan to visit multiple times throughout the winter season.
Don’t forget to mark your calendar for the annual Superhero Ice CAPE-ade —where your little ones can skate alongside their favorite comic book heroes!
Looking for more fun? Check out other kid-friendly restaurants around Milwaukee or explore the best ice skating rinks in the area.
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.
