FAQs

There is no admission fee for the museum if you’re just coming out to skate. Let us know at the gate that you’re here just to skate and we’ll give you directions straight to the rink!

We do! Ice skate rental is included in your skating fee, but we have a limited number of each size. We recommend bringing an extra pair of socks along in case you need to wear a larger size. All sizes listed are adult sizes. The sizes and quantities available are:

You’re welcome to bring your own ice skates if you’d like, however we will need to inspect the blades to ensure they’re in good shape before you hit the rink. Please note, toe picks are not allowed as they may damage the synthetic surface.

The Glaciarium is an outdoor skating rink, so you’ll want to dress according to the weather. Long socks are required when you rent your ice skates from us (although we’d suggest them even in your own so your toes stay warm!)

Helmets are recommended as a safety precaution, but not required. You’re welcome to bring along your bike helmet or rent one from us if you’d like to wear one.

We also have skate aids available for younger children that can be easily pulled by adults, or pushed by the child as they become more independent skaters. Safety is as important to us as the fun you will have here!

The name Glaciarium (glay-sheer-ee-um) actually means “a skating rink with a floor of artificial ice”. Believe it or not, the first artificial ice rink was built in London way back in 1841 and bore the Glaciarium name.

The Glaciarium at Stuhr Museum features modern synthetic ice.

The original Glaciarium in London was created from a mixture of salt, copper sulfate, and hog’s lard. This artificial rink was not open for long, as the odor in warmer months deterred most skaters.

While the idea of an artificial ice rink has deep roots in history, the modern synthetic technology in the Glaciarium at Stuhr Museum won’t leave skaters turning up their noses! This synthetic surface is very similar to skating on natural ice and we’re excited for you to try it out!