Deep in the heart of the whimsical wonderland called Illinois, there's a merry band of young adventurers known as the Ice Gliders. Now, you may think Illinois is all about towering skyscrapers, bustling cities, and endless cornfields. But you would be missing out on one of its coolest secrets: the glittering, ice-skating rinks that beckon youngsters from all over the state. Led by their fearless and slightly zany leader Captain Glide-a-lot, these kids aren't your ordinary Illinoisans. Absolutely not! They are daring ice wizards who can perform triple axels and flamingo jumps, all before breakfast! Even the most ferocious Blackhawks fan would trade his hockey stick for a pair of skates to join them. Captain Glide-a-lot, with his neon-green ice skates and a hat that would make even a peacock blush, is the silliest sight you can imagine. He twirls around, hilariously sliding on his belly like a playful seal one minute, then suddenly pirouetting with the grace of a ballet dancer the next. He is the heart and soul of these icy escapades, ushering in laughter and pure joy every time his skate touches the ice. Illinois might be known for the Windy City, Lincoln, and the Mississippi River, but it's these Ice Gliders who make the state extra special. With their twinkling eyes and rosy cheeks, they whirl around their icy playground, conjuring magic with every sweep of their skates. And at the center of it all is Captain Glide-a-lot, the funniest and most lovable ice skating captain you'll ever meet. So, the next time you think of Illinois, remember the Ice Gliders! They're the coolest kids on block (or rather, the ice), and their frosty adventures are just waiting to be discovered.
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The Happy Hive is an inclusive play space designed to spark joy and connection for every child. With a special focus on comfort and accessibility for neurodivergent kids, our environment welcomes children of all abilities to explore, move, and create at their own pace. From climbing walls, swings, and zip lines to dedicated zones for pretend play and art, The Happy Hive offers both high-energy fun and creative outlets. While we cater to children ages 1-13 for neurotypical kids, we have no age limit when it comes to kids with special needs—because play should have no boundaries. At The Happy Hive, we believe every child deserves a space where they can feel safe, included, and free to be themselves.
The Watts Center at Watts Park is a beloved Glencoe destination all year round. During colder months, the two outdoor ice rinks provide local residents with the perfect place to enjoy ice skating activities. The two lighted rinks are open from the day after Thanksgiving through the first Sunday in March, and the sledding hill is always a popular spot. In the warmer months, the rinks are transformed for DekHockey, and the park also features two tennis courts, two pickleball courts (on the tennis courts), a disc golf course, and soccer fields. Glencoe residents can find something for everyone at Watts Park.