Milwaukee County Parks Opens Slice of Ice at Red Arrow Park for 2025-26 season

MILWAUKEE, WI – Milwaukee County Parks is excited to announce the return of Slice of Ice at Red Arrow Park for the 2025–26 winter season on Friday, December 19th. To celebrate the opening, free skate rentals courtesy of WaterStone Bank will be available from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with regular skate rental pricing in effect from 6:00 p.m. until close. This cherished downtown tradition invites families, friends, and visitors of all ages to enjoy outdoor ice skating in the heart of Milwaukee.

“The holiday season truly brings people together in Milwaukee County. Slice of Ice at Red Arrow Park is one of our cherished winter traditions, and I invite all Milwaukee County families, children, residents, and visitors to come out and take part in this special ice-skating adventure,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “Thank you to Milwaukee County Parks for once again hosting this family-friendly activity in the heart of the community for folks to enjoy throughout the season.”

Slice of Ice: A Winter Wonderland
Slice of Ice is a free outdoor skating rink for those with their own skates. Skate rentals are available at the warming house throughout the season at the following rates:

• Youth (17 and under): $9
• Adults: $11
• Pre-scheduled school and non-profit groups: $5
• Skate sharpening: $7

Group outings will be available from January 5 to the close of the season. To reserve a school or non-profit group outing, call 414-316-8393.

“Slice of Ice at Red Arrow Park reflects the joy, vibrancy, and inclusivity that Milwaukee County Parks brings to our community,” said Milwaukee County Supervisor Sheldon Wasserman. “It’s a place where families, friends, and visitors can make memories together while enjoying downtown during the winter season. We encourage everyone to lace up their skates and take part in this wonderful Milwaukee tradition.”

Thanks to the Milwaukee Admirals, skate helpers will once again be available for a $1 rental fee with a $5 refundable deposit or photo ID. For skaters with mobility impairments, ADA ice sleds are available at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis, thanks to the Mobility Center.

“There is nothing quite like the joy of skating outdoors in the heart of downtown Milwaukee,” said Guy Smith, Executive Director of Milwaukee County Parks. “Slice of Ice offers a festive and fun winter experience for everyone, whether you are lacing up for the first time or gliding across the ice with friends and family.”

Enhance Your Skating Experience Red Arrow Park will feature stunning holiday décor, generously sponsored by WaterStone Bank and Milwaukee Downtown, Business Improvement District #21. Skaters can also enjoy warm beverages and food available for purchase at the nearby Biggby Coffee.

Whether you’re downtown after a show or looking for a fun weekend activity, Slice of Ice is the perfect winter destination. With free admission, affordable rentals, and a festive downtown atmosphere, Red Arrow Park is a must-visit this season.

Hours of Operation
December:

• Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Friday & Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
• Holiday Hours:
  • December 24: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • December 25: 4:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
  • December 26 – January 3: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
  • January 4: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

January & February:

• Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (skate rentals begin at 11:00 a.m.)
• Monday – Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (skate rentals begin at 2:00 p.m.)
• Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (skate rentals begin at 2:00 p.m.)
• Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (skate rentals begin at 11:00 a.m.)

For more information about skating at Red Arrow Park, visit Milwaukee County Parks Slice of Ice webpage.

Looking for more to do in the Milwaukee County Parks this winter? Beat the winter blues by checking out all our many affordable, family-friendly offerings below!

Indoor Winter Recreation:

• Open Skate at Wilson Ice Arena: View the schedule and admission details here.
• Indoor Pickleball at the Sports Complex: Find hours and admission information here.
• Water Exercise at Noyes and Pulaski Indoor Pools: See hours and admission details here.

About Milwaukee County Parks
Milwaukee County Parks is dedicated to enriching the lives of the community by providing safe, enjoyable, and affordable recreational opportunities while preserving the natural and cultural resources of the parks. Spanning over 15,000 acres, the Milwaukee County Park System includes more than 150 parks and parkways, over 100 miles of trails, numerous community centers, golf courses, botanical gardens, beaches, and hundreds of playgrounds, athletic fields, and picnic areas. Committed to sustainability, health, and equity, Milwaukee County Parks continues to strive towards a vision where everyone, regardless of background, can enjoy the benefits of green spaces and recreational facilities.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.