Millennium Park's ice ribbon offers a fantastic winter experience in the heart of Chicago. However, to make the most of your visit, it's essential to understand the ticketing process, available programs, and potential discounts. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your ice skating adventure.
Maggie Daley Park Ice Ribbon. Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ticketing Information
Tickets for ice skating are available for purchase, but there are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Limited Capacity: Session capacity is limited, so it's advisable to book in advance.
- Reservation Types: A select number of reservation types is available. If your desired ticket type is unavailable, check back later to see if spots have opened.
- Verification: During the ticket purchase process, verify the dates, times, and session type (With Skate Rental or Bring Your Own) for accuracy.
- Purchase Limits: Tickets are available for purchase in blocks of up to 10 per transaction.
- No Waitlist: There is no waitlist available.
Purchasing Tickets
Tickets can be purchased online, but walk-up sales are also available if a session is not sold out.
Ice Skating In Millennium Park
Weather and Cancellations
The MDP Ice Ribbon is an outdoor venue and operates through various weather events. Here's what you need to know:
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- Open Unless Announced: The MDP Ice Ribbon is open unless otherwise announced.
- Cancellations: In the event that a session is canceled by Management due to weather, emergency, or safety issues, Maggie Daley Park will process refunds.
- Refund Processing: All refunds may take up to 10 business days to process.
- Session Cancellations: Session cancellations are typically made the day of a scheduled session and may include the entire day or specific sessions.
Ticket Transfers
MDP Ice Skating tickets may be transferred to another date or session time, providing flexibility in your plans.
Check-In Process
Each QR Code is unique and must be presented as your ticket at check-in. Ensure you have it ready when you arrive.
Skate Rentals
Figure and hockey skates are available for rent. Keep the following in mind when selecting your size:
- Figure Skates: Run true to size.
- Hockey Skates: Run about 1 size bigger than your shoe size.
Available Programs
Several programs are offered at most rinks, except for Maggie Daley. These programs cater to different interests and skill levels:
- Open Skate: Open to all ages. Pre-registration is required. Open Skate schedules and blocks are subject to change.
- Drop-In Learn to Skate Lessons: This session provides instruction on the basics of balance, forward stride, starting, and stopping.
- Senior Skate: Open skate for ages 50+. Pre-registration is required.
- Stick & Puck and Pond Hockey: This combined program offers 45 minutes of Stick & Puck followed by 45 minutes of Pond Hockey for one price.
Stick & Puck and Pond Hockey Details
For those interested in Stick & Puck and Pond Hockey, here are the requirements:
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- Equipment: All players must wear a helmet (those under 18 must wear a HECC approved helmet with a full-face mask), shin pads, a cup, and hockey gloves.
- Bring Your Own: Skaters must bring their own equipment, including a hockey stick.
- Stick & Puck: Offers open access to the ice specifically for practicing stickhandling, skating, and shooting skills.
- Pond Hockey Practice: Practice non-contact battling up to 5-on-5 skaters. No slap shots or body checking are allowed, and hockey helmets are required.
Rat Hockey
Rat Hockey is a pick-up game available for players 18 years and older. Here are the guidelines:
- Equipment: All players must wear a helmet, shin pads, a cup, and hockey gloves. Equipment is not provided.
- Rules: Slap shots are allowed, but body checking is not allowed.
- Minimum Participants: A minimum of eight participants are required for rat hockey play.
Important Reminders
Before finalizing your reservation, double-check the following:
- Date: Ensure you have selected the correct date.
- Session Time: Verify the session time.
- Reservation Type: Confirm whether you need skate rental or will bring your own skates.
Refund Policy
No refunds are given, except in cases where the session has been canceled by management due to weather, emergency, or safety issues.
Summary Table: Ice Skating Programs
| Program | Age Requirement | Pre-registration | Equipment | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open Skate | All Ages | Required | Skates | Open to all ages, schedules subject to change. |
| Drop-In Learn to Skate Lessons | All Ages | No | Skates | Instruction on basic skating skills. |
| Senior Skate | 50+ | Required | Skates | Open skate for seniors. |
| Stick & Puck | All Ages | No | Full Hockey Gear | Practice stickhandling, skating, and shooting skills. |
| Pond Hockey Practice | All Ages | No | Full Hockey Gear | Non-contact 5-on-5 hockey practice. |
| Rat Hockey | 18+ | No | Full Hockey Gear | Pick-up game with slap shots allowed. |
By keeping these guidelines in mind, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable ice skating experience at Millennium Park.
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