UNMC’s outdoor ice skating rink will be open Dec. 8 through Feb. 11.
The outdoor rink, which is open to the public, has undergone significant improvements since last skating season – many below the surface but contributing to some visible changes at the rink.
Blake Wesely, project manager with UNMC Facilities Management and Planning, said the entire ice rink system – including the mechanical piping and concrete slab – was demolished and replaced. That will have benefits on the surface for the ice and ice skaters.
“We should now have more consistent ice to skate on throughout with no warm or slush spots, making it a more enjoyable skating experience,” Wesely said.
In addition, the surrounding sidewalks were replaced, new landscaping installed and new red benches added on the ice rink’s south side, along with some other aesthetic improvements.
The ice rink is located just east of 42nd Street, midway between Emile Street and Dewey Avenue, on the north side of the Michael F. Sorrell Center for Health Science Education.
Admission for the public is $7, which includes skates. Cash or credit card only — no checks or debit cards.
Admission is free for members of the med center and university community as follows:
- UNMC, University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Kearney, Clarkson College, Nebraska Medicine employees and students, along with their spouse/partner and children. Must present a valid university ID badge.
- Ronald McDonald House employees and house guests. Must present a valid ID badge.
Hours of operation are:
- Mondays and Thursdays: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4-8 p.m.
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. (intramurals scheduled evenings)
- Fridays and Saturdays: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
- Sundays: 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
During UNMC’s winter break — Dec. 18 through Jan. 1 — open skating hours will be extended to:
- Sunday through Thursday: 11 a.m.-8 p.m
- Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
On Christmas Eve, the rink will close at 5 p.m., and it will be closed on Christmas Day. The rink will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
If the air temperature (not the wind chill reading) is zero degrees or below, the rink will be closed. Check weather closures by going to Facebook or by calling 402-559-0697. Free parking is available in Lot 15, the surface lot on 40th Street between Dewey Avenue and Emile Street, located on the north and east sides of the UNMC Center for Healthy Living.
Skaters may bring food and beverages. Alcohol is not allowed. For more information about the ice rink, check the rink’s webpage or contact Candace Peteler via email or at 402-559-5192.
Huzzah!