Photo: City Center/PVD Rink
Photo: Jaz
Photo: Natalya Dwyer
City Center/PVD Rink
★4.3(587 reviews)$Entertainment
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 5-14. Younger elementary-aged children enjoy learning to skate during dedicated family sessions, while tweens and teens love the disco atmosphere and arcade area. Beginners of all ages can use skating aids to build confidence.🧡 Saved by 150+ families
About
City Center/PVD Rink brings classic roller skating fun to downtown Providence with a vibrant indoor facility featuring disco lights, upbeat music, and family-friendly skating sessions. Beyond the rink, kids can enjoy arcade games and special events, making it an ideal destination for active entertainment regardless of the weather outside.
Highlights
- ✓Classic roller skating with disco lights and energetic music
- ✓Dedicated family skating sessions for a kid-friendly atmosphere
- ✓Arcade games for breaks between skating
- ✓Skating aids available to help beginners learn
- ✓Indoor climate-controlled environment perfect for year-round fun
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early during family sessions to avoid the biggest crowds and get rental skates fitted before the rink gets busy
- 2.Bring your own socks (required for skate rentals) to save a few dollars and ensure a comfortable fit
- 3.Check their website for theme nights and special family events which often include games, contests, and giveaways
- 4.Consider bringing knee and elbow pads for nervous first-time skaters to boost their confidence
- 5.Parking is available at nearby Kennedy Plaza garages - validate your ticket inside if participating venues offer discounts
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings and early afternoons tend to be less crowded, making them ideal for beginners. Weekend family sessions (typically afternoon time slots) offer the full disco experience with lights and music but expect larger crowds.
What to Know
Skate rentals are available on-site, and socks are required for all skaters. The venue is centrally located in downtown Providence with nearby parking garages, and typically offers a snack bar for refreshments during your visit.
Seasonal Notes
As an indoor facility, the rink operates year-round and is particularly popular during cold New England winters and rainy days. Check for special holiday-themed skating events around Halloween, Christmas, and school vacation weeks.
Nearby Eats
The nearby Federal Hill neighborhood (a short drive away) offers numerous family-friendly Italian restaurants, or visit the Providence Place Mall food court within walking distance for quick, casual kid-approved options.
More Activities Near Providence
Entertainment
Apex Entertainment Marlborough
★4.4$$❤️57
Apex Entertainment Marlborough is a one-stop family fun destination offering an impressive variety of activities under one roof. With bowling lanes, an extensive video arcade, high-energy laser tag, go-kart racing, and on-site dining, it's perfect for birthday parties, rainy days, or simply burning off energy when the kids need action-packed entertainment.
Entertainment
Dave & Buster's Providence
★4.2$$❤️164
Dave & Buster's Providence is the ultimate indoor entertainment destination where kids can enjoy hundreds of arcade games, virtual reality experiences, and interactive attractions while parents relax knowing there's something for everyone. Located conveniently at Providence Place, this massive venue combines state-of-the-art gaming with a full-service restaurant, making it perfect for birthday parties, rainy day adventures, or special family outings.
Cafe
Anderson & Shea's Market
$
Anderson & Shea's Market is a welcoming neighborhood gem in Providence where families can grab delicious fresh sandwiches, browse local products, and enjoy a relaxed cafe atmosphere. The friendly, casual vibe makes it perfect for popping in with kids for a quick bite or picking up snacks for a picnic adventure, without the stress of fancy restaurant expectations.
Theater
Providence Performing Arts Center
★4.8$$❤️248
Providence Performing Arts Center brings Broadway magic to life for young audiences with spectacular family-friendly productions in a stunning historic theater. From beloved Disney classics to imaginative original shows, kids are captivated by the colorful sets, talented performers, and stories that spark their imagination in this grand 3,100-seat venue.