MFP Commentary:
I can’t believe that it took me 5 years to check out the ice skating resources in Springfield MO. It turns out that most of my assumptions about the place were unfounded. They have great public skate hours. Multiple sessions per day, 7 days a week, this time of year, and they sell a seasons pass at a very reasonable price. The pass is $120 a year, and $100 if you are a senior or a student. For comparisons sake, the Germain Ice Arena in Estero FL, charges $400 a month for unlimited ice time, and then only for what they “free style” skating, which is geared more towards competitive figure skaters rather than the general public.
They also have 8 week hockey and figure skating classes that are held year round if you don’t know how to skate. This runs about $100 per 8 week session.The rental skates look half decent also.
The proshop was closed and I could not get my skates sharpened when I was there. You might want to call before you go, they are located at:
635 E. Trafficway St., Springfield, MO
Phone (417) 866-7444
Here are some links to get you started:
City Parks web site
City of Springfield Page on the Ice Arena
and lastly their Face Book Page
As you can see, I had the entire rink to myself the other day. Which is a fantastic thing if you want to do any serious skating.
My only gripe about the facility is that this is not a free market enterprise but instead consists of the socialist government of Springfield, stealing money at gun point from the citizens, to build a multi million dollar facility, that when all is said and done, is not something that the citizens of Springfield seem to want to utilize. That being said, I had no part in the theft, and plan on utilizing this facility over the coming years. If I can afford it I am planning on picking up hockey equipment and getting back to playing after a 45 year hiatus. Hope to see you there!
~MFP