Winterhurst Ice Arena has become a popular Friday night hangout for Lakewood High School students. For just $12, anyone can enjoy the rink with free skate rentals—a fantastic way to kick off the weekend.
Ice skating may seem intimidating, especially for first-timers. It can look scary and nearly impossible, but contrary to popular belief, ice skating is for everyone. No matter your age or experience level, Winterhurst welcomes all to give it a try.
Winterhurst strives to be accessible, offering both figure and hockey skates in all sizes so that skaters can find the perfect fit. Skate helpers, plastic tools designed to assist beginners, are also available to help newcomers gain confidence on the ice.
Many Lakewood students frequent Winterhurst; it’s a perfect getaway after a long week. LHS student Charlotte Rolgalski, a regular visitor, looks forward to the weekly open skate sessions.
“I try to go every Friday when there’s an open skate,” said Rolgalski. “It makes the weekend feel longer.”
Skating at Winterhurst isn’t just about fun on the ice—it’s also a social experience. Whether you want to quietly skate side-by-side, show each other your new tricks, or catch up on the latest gossip.
“I love ice skating with my friends every weekend,” Rolgalski said. “It’s a fun thing to do every Friday.”
Karen Riedy, a Winterhurst employee for the past 38 years, loves her job. Riedy works at the front desk at the arena and enjoys supervising the local hangout spot.
“It’s a great place to be,” Riedy said. “The people have always been so nice. It’s a nice facility.”
Winterhurst’s amenities extend beyond the rink; among them is the food they serve. A popular choice for many is the spicy zamboni sauce, a fun and flavorful way to elevate your dish.
“I really like the food they offer, especially the spicy zamboni sauce,” said Jablonski.
From freshly made fries and nachos to an array of vending machines, Winterhurst offers something to satisfy every craving. Building up an appetite on the rink is inevitable.
“You get a workout,” Madeline Sheils said, another Lakewood High School student. “I get food there from the vending machines…I really like it.”
Winterhurst recently added a frozen yogurt machine. The machine makes your dessert right before your eyes! You choose your flavors and toppings and watch as it fills up your personal cup.
If you’re done skating for the day, there’s an assortment of arcade games to play and win prizes. From claw machines to other more interactive games, Winterhurst offers a sizable selection.
As winter approaches, autumn drifts away, and the football season comes to an end, students find new ways to spend their Friday nights. The games were super popular with the Lakewood High School crowd, giving hundreds of students a chance to socialize while enjoying the spectacle.
“I made it to every football game I could,” Jablonski said.
Football games offered a chance to unwind and enjoy the excitement of the week’s end, “I love football games,” Rolgalski said. Students could cheer on their team and walk around with their friends, engaging in conversations.
While the end of football season marks a shift, Winterhurst provides a great alternative. Instead of watching from the stands, they can engage in fun activities and continue enjoying their Friday nights together.
“Football games were fun, but Winterhurst matches up to it,” Jablonski said.
Some even prefer ice skating to football games.
“It is better,” Sheils said. “I feel way more connected to what I’m doing while I ice skate.”
Over 45 years in the making, Winterhurst strives to become the best. From hockey games and private lessons to public skating, it’s one of the best areas in Lakewood to improve your ice skating skills. Lakewood High School’s hockey team also favors the arena, drawing fans to cheer on the Rangers at Winterhurst for their home games.
“I highly recommend,” Jablonski said, “they have many fun activities.” With a 4.2 out of 5 star rating, Winterhurst is the most magical ice arena in town.
Almost every Friday, an open skate welcomes the public to enjoy their ‘nice on the ice.’ With the lights shining and music blasting, nothing compares. Whether you’re a pro or a first-time skater, Winterhurst’s atmosphere creates an unforgettable experience. No wonder Friday nights at Winterhurst have become a highlight for many in the Lakewood community!
