Though Philly isn't necessarily known for cold weather, if you've ever taken a stroll down Locust Walk in the winter, you know that it gets pretty bitter outside. Even those furry boots that look like dead ferrets don't seem to cut it on the chilliest of days. But rather than hibernating for the next three months, try embracing the season at the Blue Cross RiverRink, the only outdoor ice skating rink in Philadelphia.
Located at Penn's Landing, only blocks away from several major highways, the RiverRink is somewhat of an anomaly. While one side of the rink faces its massive parking lot and a few overpasses, the other looks out over the Delaware River and the Camden, New Jersey skyline, which is surprisingly picturesque at night. Even despite the '90s hits playing over the loudspeaker and the sounds of shrieking children, the rink has a peaceful feel to it.
If you get sick of star-gazing while you glide around the ice, or find that you're falling more than you're standing, there is an indoor concession stand right next to the rink that sells food and drinks and even screens movies. The stand also houses a birthday room, and for $12.95 per person, you can throw your best friend the 21st birthday party that he or she has always dreamed of.
Though the RiverRink is only open through February 20th, The Penn's Landing Corporation, which manages the rink, has organized several big events to take place at the rink over the holiday season. This Saturday and Sunday, visitors of the RiverRink have the opportunity to tour some of the U.S. Navy's most extraordinary ships, which will be docking near the rink as part of the Army/Navy Salute at Penn's Landing. Later in the season, the rink will be hosting a New Year's Eve Party where for $15-$25, guests of the RiverRink can enjoy live entertainment, fireworks over the Delaware River and skating into the morning hours.
One special program offered by the RiverRink is "Good Skates," which funds trips to the rink for Philadelphia middle schoolers. So even if you don't skate, try taking a few lessons (the rink offers a six-week session for $90) because you'll ultimately be helping a good cause, and everyone loves a good cause.
Before you head over to the RiverRink, be sure to check out the directions on their website since it can be a bit hard to find. Just don't let that discourage you from spending a night skating under the stars because it's more relaxing than you might think.
