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.
Read morebest ice-skating programs in Highland Park, IL
Swift Nature Camp is the perfect place for your child to spend their summer! Our overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 is located in beautiful Wisconsin. We offer a unique blend of traditional summer camp activities and environmental education to help kids increase their appreciation for nature, science, and the environment. We’ve got it all – fun, friendships, adventure trips, and nature! Spend your summer with us – you’ll never forget it!
Have you ever dreamed of skating like the pros? Take a step in the right direction and come to the Skatium Ice Arena. Here, you can learn from the ice arena and affiliate organization professionals and progress in your skating journey. Whether you want to be a hockey player, figure skater, or a recreational skater, the Skatium Ice Arena is the perfect place to start. With a full-size rink and a smaller rink, you can find the perfect place to let your passion grow. Plus, the arena is open for public skating year-round. Follow in the footsteps of legends such as Scott Hamilton, Denis Savard, Evan Lysacek, Sasha Cohen, and Stan Mikita and come to the Skatium Ice Arena today!
Rolling Meadows Park District celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2018, having been formed in 1958. The District has been widely recognized for their excellence in parks and recreation management, having been awarded Distinguished Park and Recreation Accredited and Excellent Level A status from the Illinois Association of Park Districts and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association and Distinguished Budget recognition from the Illinois Government Finance Officers Association since 2014. In addition, the District has been a finalist five times for the National Gold Medal award for excellence in parks and recreation management, most recently in 2019. It is an impressive feat, and further evidence of the District’s commitment to creating a high-quality park experience for its residents.
The Park District of Oak Park has been providing recreational opportunities for the 53,000+ residents of Oak Park since 1912. The District is overseen by a Board of five elected officials and owns and operates a variety of parks, centers, and special facilities. Residents can depend on the District to provide high-quality programs and well-maintained facilities to meet their diverse leisure, wellness, childcare, and other needs. This helps to enhance the quality of life for all residents. Recreation activities are available for all ages, including fitness, swimming, music, dance, visual and performing arts, and sports. The District is also a member of the West Suburban Special Recreation Association, providing recreation services to those with physical and mental challenges.
The Joliet Park District is dedicated to providing its community with quality recreational opportunities and events. The District boasts 78 community parks, 15 award-winning facilities, and over 1650 acres. It has been proudly serving Joliet and the surrounding communities since 1922. The Park District's mission is to promote healthy, active lifestyles and enhance the quality of life for all its citizens. It offers an array of recreational programming to encourage people of all ages to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. The District also provides a range of events throughout the year that bring the community together to enjoy all the parks have to offer. Joliet Park District is committed to creating a vibrant, healthy community. Its commitment to quality recreational opportunities, programs and events have been appreciated for almost a century. With 78 community parks, 15 award-winning facilities, and over 1650 acres, it's no wonder why the Joliet Park District is the go-to destination for outdoor recreation!
At our rink, we offer programs for both figure skaters and hockey players, even if they are just starting out. Our hockey classes come with the free use of our equipment, and when your skater needs a larger size, we will replace it free of charge. We also offer classes for figure skaters, and have had skaters from all over the world come to train here. In fact, we have sent skaters to the last two Olympics and seven of our skaters will be competing at Nationals in January of 2019. Our Adult hockey program is a great way for adults to stay active and have fun. Over 60 teams play here, and the teams are formed by draft to ensure a level playing field. With seven leagues based on ability, players can also substitute on other teams when a team isn't able to field ten players. So come join us and start on your journey to figure skating or hockey success!
. Ice Valley Centre Ice Arena is the perfect place for the whole family to have fun! Enjoy a leisurely skate on the NHL size rink, grab a bite to eat at the Breakaway Café, and rent one of four private party/meeting rooms for special occasions. Plus, with a wide variety of programming available for all skill levels, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, Ice Valley Centre Ice Arena has something for you.
At the Glenview Community Ice Center, we’re committed to helping young athletes develop their skills on the ice and their character off it. Our First Timers program is designed to introduce kids to the sport of hockey and get them comfortable on the ice. Then our three levels of Youth Development hockey will give them a strong foundation of skills. When they’re ready, they’ll move up to Youth League, a recreational league that emphasizes participation, skill development, and good sportsmanship. We also offer a variety of other programs to help kids refine their skills, including League Prep, Skills Clinics, and Rapid Hockey Circuit. We’re proud to be teaching kids the skills and values they need to succeed on and off the ice.
. The Park District understands the need to bridge the gap between public resources and the funds necessary to maintain and enhance its world-class facilities. With 44 parks, beaches, and 11 sports and nature facilities spread over 700 acres of land, the Park District is a valuable part of the community. Property taxes are the main source of funding for the Park District, making up around 50% of its operating costs. However, only 6% of resident property taxes are paid directly to the Park District. This is why the Park District needs to look for other sources of funding to ensure the continued success of its facilities. The Park District is committed to finding new sources of funding to keep its parks and nature facilities running at the highest level. Community support is essential to maintaining these invaluable resources and to ensure that generations to come can enjoy them.
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.
Center Ice Of Du Page is your destination for family fun and entertainment. Our NEW *COSMIC* skate offers a special experience on Fridays and Saturdays. Come out and enjoy the music and lights while skating around the ice. Our public skating sessions are popular attractions and our friendly staff will make sure you have a great time. Skating is a unique way to exercise and have fun - don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
For the past half century, the Carol Stream area has been proud to offer figure skating and hockey to the community. Skaters of all ages and skill levels have been able to take part in these activities, allowing them to develop their physical and social skills. The 50 years of programs in the area has allowed for a strong sense of community and pride from all who have been involved. From beginner lessons to competitive teams, the figure skating and hockey programs have been a great source of recreation and physical activity for children, teens, and adults alike. Whether learning for fun or honing skills for competition, skaters are provided with the opportunity to develop discipline and grace on the ice. The Carol Stream community has been enriched by the figure skating and hockey programs for the past fifty years. It has become a place where people of all ages can come together to share their passion and develop lifelong skills. The programs have truly been a gift to the community, providing a safe and enjoyable way to explore the world of skating.
At American Heartland Ice Arena, we are passionate about making sure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy ice sports. Established in 1997, we are proud to be the premier ice facility in the Chicago area. Our wide array of programs, leagues, and events cater to people of all ages and skill levels. We offer Hockey programs ranging from AA Tier II Chicago Bulldogs to reigning High School State Champion Loyola Academy and Lane Tech. We also have a strong figure skating and learn-to-skate program powered by Heartland Skating Academy. We are dedicated to providing everyone with the opportunity to explore the world of ice sports and have a great time doing it.
Canlan Sports – West Dundee is the premier multi-purpose recreation and entertainment facility in the area, offering something for everyone! With three NHL-sized ice rinks and an off-ice training facility, this state-of-the-art complex is the perfect place to hone your hockey skills or just have fun with friends and family. The facility is home to the Leafs Hockey Club and NIU Hockey Teams, and also features a spacious event room, a full-service sports shop, and the Blue Line Bar and Grill. Come and join in the fun at Canlan Sports – West Dundee! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you can learn to skate, develop your skills, and take part in exciting leagues and tournaments. With so much to offer, it’s the perfect place to get active and make memories that will last a lifetime.
At Arctic Ice Arena, we understand the importance of providing a safe and enjoyable environment for kids and their families. Our staff is friendly and enthusiastic, and we offer expert instruction and guidance for young skaters. With our comprehensive schedule of year-round programs, leagues, and events, kids of all ages can find something they'll love! At Arctic Ice Arena, we strive to provide a great skating experience for everyone. Our knowledgeable and passionate staff are here to help each person reach their goals, whether they're just getting started or perfecting their skills. With our exciting lineup of programs, leagues, and events for all ages, there's something for everyone. At Arctic Ice Arena, we put the fun in skating! We offer a safe, healthy, and enjoyable environment for kids and their families. With a great selection of programs, leagues, and events for all ages, we believe that everyone can find something they love. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are here to help, whatever your skill level may be. Check out our website to learn more about what we have to offer!
The Niles Park District is overseen by five elected commissioners. These individuals, who each serve for four years on an unpaid basis, are committed to representing the recreation needs of the community. With the power to levy taxes, set or change policies, sign agreements, award contracts and more, they have the same responsibilities as the board of directors of a public corporation. The Niles Park District also employs an Executive Director, who is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the Park District. By working with professional staff, the Executive Director ensures that the Park Board is informed of the current happenings within the district. The Niles Park District is dedicated to providing its citizens with recreational activities that meet their needs. By working together, the five elected commissioners and the Executive Director make sure that the Park District is running as best it can.
Crystal Lake, Illinois is home to the Crystal Ice House, a three sheet ice facility that offers a variety of programs for all ages. The facility is home to the Yellow Jackets Hockey Club, Wagon Wheel Figure Skating Club, and the Crystal Lake Stingers Hockey Club, as well as four high school hockey teams. Families can take advantage of skating classes, public skating, open hockey, and stick and puck. Adults can join the Adult League Hockey and take part in the curling program. The Crystal Ice House also hosts numerous hockey tournaments and skating exhibitions throughout the year. The Crystal Ice House provides a great opportunity for families to get out and enjoy some winter fun. From skating classes and public skating to open hockey and stick and puck, there's something for everyone. Adults can join the Adult League Hockey or take part in the curling program. Plus, the facility hosts numerous hockey tournaments and skating exhibitions throughout the year. Located in the city of Crystal Lake, Illinois, the Crystal Ice House is a three sheet ice facility that is home to the Yellow Jackets Hockey Club, Wagon Wheel Figure Skating Club, and the Crystal Lake Stingers Hockey Club, as well as four high school hockey teams. Whether you're looking for a fun activity for the kids or an exciting way to get adults involved, the Crystal Ice House has something for everyone.
In 1968, Wilmette residents narrowly voted down a referendum that would have created a swimming pool, children's park, bath house/warming house, natural ice rink and toboggan hill in Community Playfield. However, the acquisition of the land that is now Centennial Park led to the construction of a sports complex facility instead. This facility now includes a pool, eight indoor tennis courts and two indoor ice rinks. With the addition of these amenities, Wilmette residents have access to an array of sports and recreational activities and facilities to meet their needs.
. At the Alsip Park District, we strive to enrich the lives of individuals of all ages by providing quality leisure services and recreation at our various parks and facilities. We want to create a safe and clean environment for people to enjoy, while also providing educational, social, and recreational programs. We are proud to offer a unique program that will honor and/or memorialize relatives and/or friends in the form of a tree planting in one of our Alsip Park District Parks. This is an opportunity for Alsip Residents to commemorate their loved ones in a special way that will remain for many years to come. Through this program, we hope to bring joy to our community by allowing members to create lasting memories of their loved ones that will be visible for generations. We invite all Alsip Residents to take part in this special program and share their memories with us.
Our daily operations are guided by the goals and dreams we have for our organization. We are inspired and energized by our mission and vision, which serve as our “North Star”. This provides our passionate staff and volunteers with the clarity and direction to commit their time and efforts to the Y. At the YMCA of Metro Chicago, we firmly believe in the power of community. We strive to empower individuals to reach their potential and to come together as a collective to transform lives. Each and every day, our team is driven by our mission and vision to make this mission a reality. Our “North Star” provides us with the direction we need to remain focused on our goals and dreams for the YMCA of Metro Chicago. We are dedicated to creating a culture of purpose, inclusivity, and belonging. We are dedicated to creating a sense of hope and optimism for the future. We are dedicated to creating positive change in our community. The YMCA of Metro Chicago is focused on making a difference, and our mission and vision serve as the shining beacon to guide us along the way.