Summers are glorious in Park City, but if you’re getting a little hot under the collar for all that trail running and mountain biking, take a chill pill at the Park City Ice Arena. Th e arena is a popular spot through the winter months, but business naturally slows in the summer. That’s good news for Parkites and visitors looking for something new and different. “There’s a lot more open-skate opportunity in the summer because the youth hockey, curling and figure skating programs take time off . It’s really a great time to cool off or even learn to skate,” says Program Coordinator Matt Genther. He’s responsible for scheduling all ice time at the arena.

Local figure skating, speed skating and curling clubs rent ice time year round, though less oft en in the summer. They’re always looking for new members, and visitors are encouraged to take a seat in the bleachers to watch events.

The speed skating club invites all. Its motto: “The first lap is free.” The Park City curling club has grown significantly in recent years, and the arena will be hosting its first “bonspiel” (curling language for “tournament”) in September. Teams from across the country will be competing at the big event.

Birthday parties are popular activities at the arena and a great way for children and parents to play it cool together on hot summer days. At $150, the basic party package gives up to 17 kids two hours on the ice and in the party room. Th e enhanced package ($250), includes four pizzas, a Coldstone Creamery cake, a case of water or Powerade and a Skull Candy giveaway.

Summer public skate and rental rates are low for area residents because the arena is subsidized by Park City Municipal Corporation. Open skate is $6.50 for adults, $6 for kids, and children five and under are free. Sessions range from one to three hours. Nonresident rates are $10.50 for adults and $10 for kids. Skate rental is $3.50 for everyone.
To learn more about summer chillin’ at the Park City Ice Arena, www.parkcityice.org.

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