Ice ice Naperville

Just in time for the holiday season, Block 59 in Downtown Naperville is transforming into a winter wonderland: a new outdoor ice-skating rink, called The Rink, is opening on Nov 20 and will remain through Jan 18.

Located in the 7,200-square-foot green space between The Cheesecake Factory and Yard House, the rink measures 20 by 120 feet. That’s big enough for both casual skaters and families looking for some winter fun. Block 59 partnered with Magic Ice USA, a company with experience building community rinks, to bring this seasonal experience to Naperville.

Rich Dippolito, Vice President of Redevelopment for Brixmor, the company behind Block 59, told NCTV17, “We really wanted something for the community to do in the wintertime.” He explained that Brixmor studied similar rink projects across the country, and “the ones that have them … are extremely popular.”

Dippolito also emphasized that the rink is more than just a temporary attraction: “We’re excited about The Rink, excited about this becoming a holiday tradition for Naperville.”

Skating at The Rink is not free, but reasonably priced. Tickets cost $14 for adults and $12 for kids, seniors, teachers, first responders, and military personnel. Each session runs for 1 hour and 45 minutes, giving skaters plenty of time to enjoy the ice. 

If you don’t own skates, no worries. On-site skate rentals are available for $5. For beginners, skate buddies, who are staff who help newbies, will be on hand for an extra $10 per session. 

The Rink is not just about open skating; there will also be themed days. On December 4, 14, and 21, Block 59 will host Skating with Santa. On January 10, children are invited to dress up and meet fairy-tale princesses for Princess Skate. 

Nov 20 through Jan 4, The Rink is open from 10 am to 9 pm Sunday through Thursday, and 10 am to 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. From January 5 through 18, The Rink is open from 4 pm to 9 pm on Monday through Thursday and 10 am to 10 pm Friday and Saturday, and 10 am to 8 pm on Sunday. 

This rink adds something new to Naperville’s winter scene. While the Naperville Park District already operates outdoor rinks, like those at Centennial Park and Nike Sports Complex, they are natural-ice rinks that depend entirely on consistent cold weather to open. 

The Rink, at Block 59, however, looks to be a more reliable winter attraction and could become a new downtown tradition, bringing people together for seasonal fun in the heart of the city.

Whether you’re a casual skater, a beginner, or just want a festive spot to hang out, The Rink at Block 59 is the perfect place to be this winter.