Ice skating guide to Milwaukee

Ice skating season has arrived in Milwaukee, and families have more options than ever to lace up and hit the ice together. From the dazzling downtown Slice of Ice to Olympic-caliber facilities where Team USA trains, the greater Milwaukee area offers something for every skill level and budget. Whether you're introducing a toddler to skating for the first time or looking for a weekend adventure with confident young skaters, this comprehensive guide covers every rink worth visiting—complete with current prices, hours, and insider tips to help your family make the most of winter.

Red Arrow Park's Slice of Ice

The Slice of Ice at Red Arrow Park remains Milwaukee's most magical skating destination, and it's actually larger than New York's famous Rockefeller Center rink. This refrigerated outdoor rink at 920 N. Water Street opened for the 2024-2025 season on December 13—nearly a month earlier than last year—and operates through February or March, weather permitting.

Skating is completely free if you bring your own skates. Rentals cost $11 for adults and $8 for children 17 and under, with sizes ranging from toddler 8 through men's 14. For little ones learning to balance, the rink offers "Polar Pals" skating aids for just $1 (plus a $5 refundable deposit), sponsored by the Milwaukee Admirals. Families with mobility needs can request free ADA ice sleds by calling ahead at 414-289-8791.

The warming house features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the rink, a cozy fireplace, and the newly-opened Biggby Coffee (which replaced Starbucks in December 2024) serving hot chocolate, lattes, and breakfast sandwiches. Restrooms and lockers are available inside. Hours run Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 8-9 p.m., with Friday and Saturday extending to 10-11 p.m.

Pro tip for families: Weekday mornings and early afternoons offer the quietest skating experience. Arrive before 2 p.m. on school days when the ice is freshest and crowds are lightest. Polar Pals go quickly on weekends—if your child needs one, get there early. The rink is especially magical after dark when holiday lights twinkle throughout the park.

Pettit National Ice Center

For an unforgettable experience, take your family to skate on the same ice where Olympic athletes train. The Pettit National Ice Center at 500 S. 84th Street (near State Fair Park) is one of only 30 indoor 400-meter speed skating ovals in the world and serves as the official U.S. Olympic Training Site for Long Track Speed Skating.

This climate-controlled facility operates year-round, offering public skating on both the massive Olympic oval and two international-sized hockey rinks. Admission runs $7.50-$9.50 depending on age (children 3 and under skate free), with skate rentals at $5. The center offers hockey, figure, and speed skates—though speed skates aren't available for rental, the standard blades work perfectly on the oval.

What makes Pettit special for beginners is the thoughtful design. Padded walls around the hockey rinks provide security for first-timers, while clearly marked lanes on the oval help skaters find their comfort zone (outer lanes for beginners, center for confident skaters). Skate helpers cost $5, and the center recently partnered with The Ability Center to offer free ice sled rentals through the RampUp program.

The learn-to-skate programs here are among the best in the region. Basic classes for ages 6-12 cost $99 for six weeks and include 20 minutes of exclusive practice time after each lesson. Younger children can join "Tot 'N Me" classes where a parent skates alongside, or "Hockey Tots" and "Snowplow Sam" programs that use games to build confidence. Birthday parties during weekend public skating include 90 minutes in the Pettit Party Zone and require at least 10 guests.

North Shore community rinks

One of the best-kept secrets for North Shore families is the network of community outdoor rinks maintained by local municipalities. Most are completely free and offer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere than larger facilities—perfect for practicing skills or enjoying a casual family outing.

Fox Point's Longacre Park at 7343 N. Longacre Road offers one of the most well-equipped community rinks in the area. The Longacre Pavilion serves as a warming house with restroom facilities. Hours run Monday through Friday 3:30-9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-9 p.m., and Sunday noon-9 p.m. Hockey is restricted to the west side of the rink, leaving plenty of open space for recreational skating. Sign up for village email/text alerts about rink conditions at 414-352-9872.

Shorewood's Lake Bluff Elementary School rink at 1600 E. Lake Bluff Boulevard is maintained by dedicated volunteer "Ice Captains" who post daily updates on Facebook using a flag system (green for open, red for closed). The warming house opens when the rink operates, and lighting allows evening skating. Don't miss the annual "Shorewood Chill" festival in early February featuring hockey drills, s'mores, hot chocolate, and live music.

Brown Deer opened a state-of-the-art refrigerated rink at Community Square Park (8705 N. Deerwood Drive) in late November. This enclosed tent structure charges $5 for children and $7 for adults, with limited youth skates available free on a first-come basis. Skating aides are available upon request.

For Mequon families, Mee-Kwon Park at 6333 W. Boniwell Road offers natural ice skating on a pond adjacent to the popular "Mule Hill" sledding area—a perfect combination for a winter afternoon. The warming house is open during skate hours, but remember: no skating after dark, and always check that the ice has been officially cleared for use.

Year-round indoor arenas for reliable ice time

When weather makes outdoor skating unpredictable, several indoor facilities guarantee ice time throughout the year.

Ozaukee Ice Center in Mequon (5505 Pioneer Road) is the most convenient indoor option for North Shore families. This two-sheet arena charges $6 admission and $3 for skate rentals, with public skating primarily on Sundays. The facility is home to the Ozaukee Youth Hockey Association ("Ice Dogs") and offers Learn to Skate USA programs for all ages. It's also where Concordia University's hockey teams practice, so you might catch some competitive action. Contact 262-375-6851 for current schedules.

Wilson Park Ice Arena (4001 S. 20th Street) offers the best value among Milwaukee County facilities at $7 admission with your own skates or $10 with rentals. This NHL-sized rink operates year-round and stands out for accessibility, offering free adaptive ice sleds through a partnership with The Ability Center. The Greater Milwaukee Figure Skating Club teaches lessons for ages 4 through adult, and youth hockey programs start as young as age 3. Don't miss the popular "Glow Skate" events featuring decorative lights, glow-in-the-dark necklaces, and a gourmet hot chocolate bar.

Eble Park Ice Arena in Brookfield (19400 W. Bluemound Road) excels at structured learning. Their beginner youth classes cost just $75 for five weeks, including free skate rental during lessons. The "Learn to Play Hockey" program for ages 4-15 runs the same price and progresses into hockey skills development classes. Public skating costs $7, with seniors and military paying $6. Groups of 10 or more receive a $5 per person rate—great for birthday parties or scout troops.

Naga-Waukee Park Ice Arena in Delafield (2699 Golf Road) features an Olympic-regulation ice sheet and comfortable amenities including a second-floor heated viewing area, arcade games, and a concession stand serving hot cocoa, pizza, and hot dogs. Easy I-94 access makes it convenient from anywhere in the metro area.

Seasonal attractions and special skating events

Beyond traditional rinks, several seasonal experiences offer unique skating adventures worth the drive.

The SnowGlobe Holiday Festival at Ballpark Commons in Franklin (running through late December) features an illuminated ice-skating trail winding through a magical light display. Skating adds $15 to general admission ($34 adult, $25 children), with special themed nights including Military Night, Ugly Sweater Night, and College Student Nights throughout December.

For very young children intimidated by larger rinks, the Dinky Rink at Milwaukee Public Market (400 N. Water Street) offers a low-stress alternative. This compact rink holds just 8 skaters at a time, making it perfect for toddlers taking their first tentative glides. Simple skate aids are available, and the adjacent market offers plenty of food options.

New Berlin's City Center Plaza features a synthetic ice rink with a special perk: families can check out skates free with a library card from the New Berlin Public Library across the street. No weather worries here—synthetic ice works in any temperature.

The Wisconsin Christmas Carnival of Lights in Caledonia includes free skating for up to 4 people with their $20 carload admission (Fridays and Saturdays through February), making it an affordable combo experience with the drive-through light show.

Learning to skate: Programs for every age

Starting a child skating works best with proper instruction, and the Milwaukee area offers excellent options at every price point.

Learn to Skate MKE at University School of Milwaukee (414-540-3522) specializes in young children with a test-free, pressure-free philosophy. Their Snowplow Sam classes for ages 4-5 use games and toys to teach balance, falling safely, marching, gliding, and stopping. The Parent & Tot program welcomes children as young as 2 with a parent on the ice. Weekend sessions run Saturday mornings and Sunday midday. Helmets are required for all young participants.

Pettit National Ice Center's Basic Skills program covers ages 6 through adult with six progressive levels, culminating in crossovers, backward skating, and edge work. At $99 for six weeks, it's comprehensive and leads naturally into figure skating, hockey, or speed skating tracks. The 20 minutes of post-class practice time helps reinforce each lesson.

Eble Park's programs offer exceptional value for Waukesha County residents at $75 for five weeks including skate rental. Their progression from beginner classes to hockey skills development creates a clear pathway for children interested in eventually playing hockey.

Before hitting the ice

Smart preparation makes skating outings more enjoyable for everyone. Start with the right clothing: layer with moisture-wicking fabrics (avoid cotton, which gets cold when sweaty), and dress children in snow pants that protect during inevitable falls. Waterproof gloves are essential—wet hands get cold fast. For outdoor skating, bring hand warmers and extra gloves.

Helmets are strongly recommended for all beginning skaters, especially children. Bike, ski, or hockey helmets all work. Some learn-to-skate programs require them. Consider knee pads and padded pants for children who fall frequently—they'll stay on the ice longer and have more fun.

Proper skate fit matters enormously. Skates should feel snug like ski boots, not loose like sneakers. Figure skates are generally better for beginners because their longer blades provide more stability than hockey skates. When renting, ask for figure skates unless your child specifically wants hockey style.

Before a first skating trip, have your child practice walking in skates at home (with guards on) to build balance confidence. Teach them to march rather than walk, keeping weight centered. Practice "safe falls"—squatting down and falling to the side or knees, never straight backward. On the ice, use skating aids and stay near the boards for support. Keep sessions short (30 minutes maximum for beginners) and end with hot cocoa to create positive associations.

Choosing the right rink for your family

Different venues suit different needs, so consider what matters most for your outing.

For first-time skating families, Wilson Park Ice Arena and Pettit National Ice Center offer the best combination of skating aids, beginner-friendly features, and structured learning programs. Both have padded walls and accessible equipment. The Dinky Rink downtown works well for very young children who might feel overwhelmed by larger facilities.

For North Shore convenience with free admission, Cahill Park in Whitefish Bay and Longacre Park in Fox Point deliver quality ice and warming houses without the drive downtown. Bring your own skates and check conditions before heading out.

For a special occasion or magical experience, nothing beats Slice of Ice at Red Arrow Park on a crisp evening with holiday lights glowing, followed by hot chocolate from Biggby Coffee. Pettit offers a unique thrill—telling kids they're skating where Olympians train makes any visit memorable.

For budget-conscious families, Lake Park's free skating with free skate loans can't be beat. Wilson Park at $7 admission represents excellent value for a year-round indoor facility. Community rinks throughout the North Shore cost nothing beyond bringing your own equipment.

For serious skill development, Pettit's comprehensive programs cover figure skating, hockey, and speed skating from beginner through competitive levels. Ozaukee Ice Center's youth hockey pathway and Eble Park's structured progression programs build skills systematically.

Conclusion

Milwaukee's ice skating scene offers remarkable variety for families willing to explore beyond the obvious options. The North Shore benefits from an exceptional concentration of quality rinks, from the refrigerated Cahill Park in Whitefish Bay to the volunteer-maintained Lake Bluff rink in Shorewood. Combined with world-class facilities like Pettit National Ice Center and the festive downtown atmosphere at Slice of Ice, local families can enjoy a different skating experience every weekend of winter.

The key insight for parents: start early in the season and start small. Use quiet weekday sessions at community rinks or the Dinky Rink to build confidence before graduating to busier venues. Invest in proper-fitting skates and don't skip the helmet. Most importantly, keep early outings short and sweet—a 30-minute skate followed by hot chocolate creates the positive memories that turn children into lifelong skating enthusiasts.

Whether you're seeking free neighborhood skating, birthday party venues, or Olympic-quality ice time, the greater Milwaukee area delivers options that rival any metropolitan region in the country. Bundle up, lace up, and make this winter your family's skating season to remember.