This ice skating ribbon is unlike any other rink.
The ice skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park is one of Chicago’s best winter-time activities. The quarter-mile rink curves up and down around a 40-foot climbing wall (out of commission for the season) for a unique winter experience. There’s nothing more wintery than skating through one of Chicago’s best parks.
Chicagoans have been enjoying winter afternoons at Maggie Daley Park ever since it’s opening in 2014. The park was named after the former first lady of the city who died in 2011 and was known for her love and advocacy for Chicago children. In honor of Maggie, the park is now one of the best playgrounds in the city and the ice ribbon is one of its most popular attractions.
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The skating ribbon is unlike any other rink. Not only is a lap around it longer than most ice skating rinks, it also moves up and down with the landscape. Skating on the rink is free, so if you have your own skates, you can skate for as long as you want at no charge. Sweet! Skates are also available to rent for $13/skate Mon-Thurs and $15/skate Fri-Sun.
If you wait to go skating until the sun sets, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of Chicago’s skyline, lit-up for the holiday season. It’s the perfect spot to take your family holiday card or pose for a winter Instagram picture.
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Pro-tip: the rink is closed periodically throughout the day for one hour Zamboni runs. You can follow @MDPZamboni on twitter to make sure you arrive just after the ice has been resurfaced. Enjoy fresh-new ice while you race your friends around the rink.
Hours: (weather permitting)
Mon-Thurs: 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Zamboni times: 2:30 p.m. & 5:00 p.m.
Fri-Sun: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Zamboni times: 12:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 5:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Address: 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
Price: Free admission.
Ice skate rentals: Mon-Thurs: $13, Fri-Sun: $15
Nearest CTA station: Randolph/Wabash (Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple Line)
More information.
Feature photo: @luisavictoriax