Burnsville Ice Center
About
Burnsville Ice Center brings the joy of ice skating to families year-round with its twin indoor arenas that cater to everyone from first-time skaters to experienced hockey players. With affordable public skate sessions, learn-to-skate programs, and fun activities like broomball, it's the perfect destination for active families looking to beat the heat in summer or enjoy a winter sport without the cold outdoor temperatures.
Highlights
- ✓Twin NHL-sized ice arenas with well-maintained ice surfaces
- ✓Affordable family skate sessions throughout the week
- ✓Skating trainers available to help beginners gain confidence
- ✓Broomball opportunities for a fun twist on traditional ice activities
- ✓Learn-to-skate programs and figure skating lessons for kids wanting to develop skills
Pro Tips
- 1.Check the online schedule before visiting,public skate times vary daily and can be limited when hockey tournaments are scheduled
- 2.Arrive 15-20 minutes early to allow time for renting skates and getting little ones laced up before your ice time starts
- 3.Bring gloves or mittens for kids (required) and dress in layers,the ice is cold but kids will warm up quickly once they start moving
- 4.Consider purchasing a skating trainer (walker-style aid) for beginners, available to rent at the front desk for extra stability
- 5.Family skate sessions offer the best value and tend to be less crowded than weekend afternoon public skates
Best Time to Visit
Weekday morning or early afternoon public skate sessions are least crowded. Weekend family skate times (check schedule) offer the best value but expect more people. Summer months are surprisingly popular as families seek indoor activities, while the rink maintains comfortable temperatures year-round.
What to Know
Public skate admission is budget-friendly (typically $8-10 per person), with skate rentals available for around $5. Ample free parking is available at the Civic Center complex. A small concession stand offers snacks and hot chocolate, though no full meals are served.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent programming. Summer is an excellent time to visit as an indoor escape from heat. Schedule varies during holiday weeks, with special holiday skate sessions often available around Christmas and New Year's. Always check the current schedule online as ice time is sometimes reserved for hockey tournaments.
Nearby Eats
Head to Gulden's Restaurant (5 minutes away) for classic American comfort food including kids' favorites like chicken fingers and burgers. For a quick bite, Davanni's Pizza & Hot Hoagies nearby offers family-friendly Italian fare perfect for refueling after skating.
More Activities Near Burnsville
Burnsville Center
Burnsville Center is a family-friendly indoor mall that offers much more than shopping, making it an ideal destination for Minnesota families year-round. With a dedicated kids' play area, movie theater, and numerous dining options all under one roof, it's the perfect spot for entertaining children on cold winter days or rainy afternoons when outdoor play isn't an option.
Southside Athletic
Southside Athletic is a family paradise where kids can swim, slide, climb, and skate all under one roof. This premier recreation center offers something for every age and energy level, from splashing in the indoor pools to conquering the climbing wall or gliding around the ice rink. With 24/7 access and consistently stellar reviews from families, it's a go-to destination for both active play and structured classes year-round.
Nicollet Commons Park
Nicollet Commons Park is a beloved Burnsville destination that checks all the boxes for active families. With its excellent playground equipment, wide open spaces perfect for running around, and well-maintained sports fields, this community park offers something for every energy level,whether your kids want to climb, swing, kick a ball, or enjoy a leisurely family picnic under the trees.
Cliff Fen Park
Cliff Fen Park offers families a rare opportunity to explore a genuine fen ecosystem right in Burnsville. Kids can safely adventure along elevated boardwalk trails while spotting wildlife, learning about wetland habitats through interactive signage, and experiencing a unique natural environment that feels worlds away from the city.