Outdoor Skating in the D

By: Lauren Corbat | January 31, 2023
Skating at The Rink at Royal Oak

Skating at The Rink at Royal Oak

One classic winter activity is ice skating outside. Luckily, Metro Detroit has outdoor rinks all over the area from the center of the city to neighborhood parks. If you have your own skates some are even free! Check out some of the local outdoor rinks below.

Riley Park Ice Rink – Farmington

Located in the heart of downtown Farmington, this 4,800-square-foot rink turns Riley Park into a Currier and Ives-type setting, making the park an all-season destination. While skate rentals are not available, there are donated skates on hand to borrow. This month, the rink will feature two special events: Choco Valentine Skate (2/11, 2-4 p.m.) and Princess Skate, hosted by Farmington Community Library (2/21, 2-4 p.m.).

For businesses interested in creative advertising, dasher board sponsorships are available (more information in link). The rink is open Sunday – Thursday 10 a.m. – 10: p.m. and Friday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Riley Park Ice Rink

The Rink at Royal Oak – Royal Oak

New to town, The Rink at Royal Oak offers skating right in the heart of one of Metro Detroit’s favorite downtown areas. Skating costs $10 per day with skate rentals running you another $5. Be sure to check out the website for a list of upcoming events including Royal Oak resident free skates, sponsored date nights, and meet-and-greets with the Red Wings! Concessions are available for purchase, including Faygo pop, marshmallow kits (for roasting), hot chocolate, and hot pretzels with cheese.

trailblazer field

From soccer practice to grocery runs, the Chevy Trailblazer is designed to make your everyday outings a breeze.

Figure skater at the Rink at Royal Oak

The Rink at Campus Martius Park – Detroit

The center of the city glows with lights and excitement as you skate in one of Detroit’s most well-known parks. It is open till March 5th and is $12 for adults, $9 for children, and $6 for skate rental. Check out the food and drink vendors while you are there!

Dodge Park Ice Arena – Sterling Heights

Check out this pavilion ice rink near Sterling Heights City Hall for family fun! The rink is free for Sterling Heights residents and an affordable $5 to skate and $3 to rent for non-residence. Deebe’s Coffee is available for hot cocoa and other beverages.

Stony Creek Metropark Ice Rink – Shelby Township

Skating at this rink is free with admission to the park or if you have a Metropark Pass! It is located near the boat launch. Note there are no skate rentals available and hockey can be played in a designated area off to the side of the main rink.

Barnum Park – Birmingham

This rink is free and open to all but does not have skate rental. There is rink maintenance, but visitors may have to shovel some snow off the surface. Hockey time is 8 a.m.-10 a.m. and 2 p.m.-4 p.m. daily. Grab your skates and get some free ice time!

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