Glide & Slide: Must-Visit Skating Rinks

March 22, 2024
pairs of roller skates from the roller skate detroit skating rink

Photo courtesy of Roller Skate Detroit

In Metro Detroit, roller skating culture weaves through the community, bringing with it a blend of nostalgia, innovation, and spirited camaraderie. Among the vibrant hubs fueling this resurgence are standout rinks, in addition to outdoor spaces like the Detroit Riverfront and the Dequindre Cut. Lace-up your skates and head to one of these spots, with each offering a unique skating experience, yet all share the mission of reigniting a passion for this timeless activity. 

UNITED SKATES OF AMERICA

1419 Southfield Road, Lincoln Park

United Skates of America distinguishes itself with its commitment to providing high-quality experiences through exceptional customer service, a wide range of skating activities, and state-of-the-art facilities. Skates and rollerblades are available to rent, ranging from toddler sizes to men’s 15. Mixing a variety of skating games, specialty skates, and dance songs, United Skates of America tries to cater to everyone’s skating dreams. Every day, there is a different theme catering to holidays, school breaks, and more.

The Silverado is the truck that works as hard as you do.

SKATE WORLD OF TROY

2825 East Maple Road, Troy

Skate World of Troy shines as a gem in the roller skating rink realm. With everything from all-age lessons to teen night, evening skates, and adult social skates, Skate World of Troy caters to skaters of all skill levels and ages. Skate World of Troy stands out for its dedication to fostering a family-friendly atmosphere where memories are made. The rink features special events, including themed nights, glow skate sessions, and parties. Skate World of Troy is designed to bring people together in a fun, energetic setting.

ROLLER SKATE DETROIT

1561 East 8 Mile Road, Ferndale

For those yearning for an experience that transcends the ordinary, Roller Skate Detroit emerges as the epitome of sophistication in the roller skating realm. Owned and led by Keith Walker, this adult-only rink caters to a more mature crowd seeking an elevated skate atmosphere. “For adults seeking a refined roller skating experience, Roller Skate Detroit offers an exclusive ambiance not found at typical rinks,” explains Walker. The venue epitomizes upscale leisure, blending first-class hospitality with modern amenities, making it a haven for adults to indulge in the joy of skating in style.

roller skate detroit skating session flyer for friday evenings
Photo courtesy of Roller Skate Detroit

NORTHLAND ROLLER RINK

22311 West 8 Mile Road, Detroit

Steeped in history and rooted in community, Northland Roller Rink stands as a testament to roller skating’s enduring appeal. As shared by Northland’s own DJ E.N.T., aka Enthoni Shorter, this landmark rink has witnessed generations of skaters glide across its expansive floor. Originally envisioned as an ice rink, its transformation into a roller skating rink has made it a cornerstone of Michigan’s skating culture. “The Skating Rink itself has been around since 1965, being the LARGEST roller rink in the state,” Shorter shares, highlighting the venue’s significant footprint in both size and legacy. DJ E.N.T. also tells us about how skaters come from all over the country to visit and skate in their city’s particular style, like New Jersey and Chicago. 

SKATIN’ STATION

8611 Ronda Drive, Canton

Skatin’ Station, a name that evokes memories of classic roller skating days, continues to be a beloved destination for those looking to experience the joy of skating. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Skatin’ Station emphasizes the importance of a fun, safe, and engaging environment for skaters of all ages and skill levels. The rink prides itself on hosting a variety of events, from open skate sessions and family skating to themed skate nights, ensuring there’s always a reason to lace up those skates and hit the floor. Skatin’ Station hosts a variety of lessons for all different skill levels, taking you from introductory skating to advanced skills.

This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on April 3, 2019, and was authored by Amber Ogden.

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