Red Arrow Park - A war memorial with a triangular structure and benches.
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Red Arrow Park

4.5
·596 reviews·Milwaukee, United States

Downtown Milwaukee's winter gem, featuring the 'Slice of Ice' skating rink with stunning city views and festive lighting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter evenings

Magical lights & festive vibe

CrowdMedium
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Red Arrow Park - A war memorial with a triangular structure and benches.

Red Arrow Park

Best Time

Winter evenings

Magical lights & festive vibe

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Downtown Milwaukee's winter gem, featuring the 'Slice of Ice' skating rink with stunning city views and festive lighting.

4.5
(596 reviews)

"Perfect winter ice rink for a fun two hours with friends and family downtown."

Vertical photo
TIP

⛸️ Check Ice Conditions First

Ice rink opening is weather-dependent. Always check park updates before heading out!

💰 Free Skating (Bring Skates!)

Admission is free if you bring your own skates. Rentals are available and in good condition.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Slice of Ice Skating Rink

Slice of Ice Skating Rink

Red Arrow Park

Glide across the ice with stunning city views. A magical winter experience for all ages.

Festive Nighttime Lighting

Festive Nighttime Lighting

Red Arrow Park

The park transforms after dark with beautiful, festive lighting, creating a magical ambiance.

32nd Infantry Division Memorial

32nd Infantry Division Memorial

Red Arrow Park

A poignant tribute to the 'Red Arrow' division, offering a moment of reflection.

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Planning Your Visit

Skate Smart: Timing is Everything

Red Arrow Park's Slice of Ice is a winter gem, but its opening hinges on consistent freezing temps. Check weather forecasts and the park's official channels before you go. Weekends can get busy, so consider a weekday visit for a more relaxed skate.

Beyond the Ice: Park Perks

While the ice rink is the star, Red Arrow Park offers more. Enjoy the scenic riverwalk, grab a bite at the on-site cafe, or simply relax on the lawns. It's a great spot for a family outing or a romantic evening stroll.

Best Times

When
Winter evenings
Why
Magical lights & festive vibe
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more ice time
Crowd
Low
When
Around holidays
Why
Special events & decorations
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

tips for skating the trail at #arrowheadprovincialpark #ontariowinter #ontarioparks
@pinatravels
5.7K likes • 68K views

⛸️ Check Ice Conditions First

Ice rink opening is weather-dependent. Always check park updates before heading out! Instagram

💰 Free Skating (Bring Skates!)

Admission is free if you bring your own skates. Rentals are available and in good condition. Instagram

Things to do in Lake Arrowhead pt. 4 For the honestly BEST views of Lake Arrowhead, make sure to make time to visit Mackay Park, Lake Arrowhead. It's an amazing family friendly and kid friendly public park with swings, a play structure, a small zip line, volleyball and pickle ball courts, and a picnic area. You can also enjoy beautiful views over the lake and enjoy a carefree day. The pickleball...
@togather.house
3.3K likes • 161.2K views
Things to do this weekend I LOVE the 90s concert after the #Brewers game on Saturday SVRA Vintage Racing at #roadamerica Big Trucks Day at Red Arrow Park on Saturday. (Free) Kids can explore trucks from MFD and DPW #wisconsin #weekendevents #milwaukee #tvnews
adrianamendeztv
2.2K likes • 122.1K views

☕ Warm Up with Hot Drinks

A coffee shop is on-site for hot chocolate and other warm beverages. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Fun

Polar Pals are available for rent to help little ones stay steady on the ice. Instagram

The Slice of Ice skating rink is now open in Red Arrow Park! ⛸️ Rather than falling on my face, I chose to be an aerial spectator instead. The surrounding buildings are looking quite festive as well! . . . #iceskating #skatingrink #milwaukee #mke #mkemycity #mkehome #droneshots #drone #lakemichigan #dronestagram #wisconsin #travel #milwaukeephotographer #droneoftheday #citygrammers #traveldestin...
abovemke
913 likes • 45.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⛸️ Check Ice Conditions First

Ice rink opening is weather-dependent. Always check park updates before heading out! Instagram

💰 Free Skating (Bring Skates!)

Admission is free if you bring your own skates. Rentals are available and in good condition. Instagram

☕ Warm Up with Hot Drinks

A coffee shop is on-site for hot chocolate and other warm beverages. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Fun

Polar Pals are available for rent to help little ones stay steady on the ice. Instagram

📸 Stunning Photo Ops

The rink and surrounding city lights offer beautiful backdrops for photos. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(596 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Red Arrow Park for its charming 'Slice of Ice' skating rink, especially its festive nighttime ambiance and the convenience of skate rentals. The park's downtown location and the historical memorial are also appreciated. Some reviewers noted issues with restroom availability and the quality of hot drinks at the on-site cafe.

"Perfect winter ice rink for a fun two hours with friends and family downtown. The rentals are a great price and in good clean condition. They were sharpening in the back when we rented. Coffee shop open and ready for you to warm up.
Hooray for our great county park!!"

Liz E in Milwaukee

"First time here, but it was beautiful. I definitely underestimated the weather but will know better next time(it will be a next time). The coffee joint that replaced Starbucks was not great with hot drinks it was cool hot chocolate but they had a mean good ham and cheese sandwich. Good luck."

LNK RN

"A small, but classic park dedicated to the 32nd Infantry Division. I have family members who served in this unit, so the stop had extra meaning to me. Get a coffee or a hot chocolate from Starbucks."

Deron Kling

What People Like

Beautiful ice rink
Festive night lighting
Convenient skate rentals

What People Dislike

Restroom availability
Cafe hot drinks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Red Arrow Park is located in downtown Milwaukee, easily accessible by car, public transport, or on foot if you're staying nearby. Parking is available in nearby garages. Instagram

Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available near the park. Check local parking apps for real-time availability and rates. Instagram

Absolutely! Several Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) bus routes stop near Red Arrow Park, making it a convenient option for visitors. Instagram

The park grounds are generally accessible, and the ice rink area has paved pathways. Specific accessibility details for the rink itself should be confirmed with park management. Instagram

Walking is a great way to see the riverwalk and surrounding downtown attractions. The park is also a good starting point for exploring the Milwaukee RiverWalk. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Slice of Ice is free if you bring your own skates! Skate rentals are available for a fee. Instagram

The opening date for the Slice of Ice is weather-dependent, typically aiming for before Christmas and requiring consistently freezing temperatures. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Hours vary seasonally and are subject to weather conditions. It's crucial to check the park's official website or social media for current operating hours before your visit. Instagram

Yes, skate rentals are available at the park. They are generally in good condition, and some special events may even offer free rental periods. Instagram

Red Arrow Park hosts various events throughout the year, including skate fests and holiday celebrations. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Beyond the rink, you can enjoy the park's lawns, benches, and the scenic Milwaukee RiverWalk. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Instagram

Based on user feedback, public restrooms may not always be readily available or convenient, which is something to consider for longer visits. Reddit

Yes, the park is family-friendly. The Slice of Ice offers 'Polar Pals' for rent to help young skaters, and there are play structures in nearby Mackay Park. TikTokInstagram

Weekdays, especially in the afternoon, tend to be less crowded than weekends or evenings. Early morning visits can also offer a more serene experience. Instagram

While specific pet policies can change, generally, dogs are allowed in Milwaukee County Parks on a leash. Always check the latest park regulations. Instagram

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a coffee shop on-site that serves hot drinks and snacks, including sandwiches. It's a convenient spot to warm up after skating. Instagram

The cafe offers hot chocolate, coffee, and reportedly good ham and cheese sandwiches, though hot drink quality can be inconsistent. Reddit

Being in downtown Milwaukee, Red Arrow Park is surrounded by numerous restaurants and cafes offering a wide variety of cuisines. Instagram

Yes, the park has lawns and benches that are suitable for picnics. It's a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal outdoors. Instagram

A coffee shop has replaced the former Starbucks location at Red Arrow Park. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Slice of Ice rink itself, especially with the city skyline in the background, is a prime photo spot. The festive lighting at night also creates magical shots. Instagram+1

Drone footage has been captured over Red Arrow Park, showcasing the rink and surrounding cityscape. However, always check local regulations regarding drone usage in public parks. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light. Nighttime is also spectacular due to the festive lighting. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. It's best to inquire with park authorities if you have specific plans. Instagram

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both the rink and wider city views. A fast prime lens can be useful for low-light shots at night. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Red Arrow Park is a fantastic destination for families. The 'Slice of Ice' skating rink is a major hit, and for the little ones, 'Polar Pals' are available for rent to help them stay upright on the ice. Instagram Nearby Mackay Park also offers playgrounds and a small zip line, making it a great place for kids to burn off energy. TikTok

Consider visiting during special events like 'Big Trucks Day' for interactive fun, or take advantage of free skate rental periods often offered at the beginning of the season. Instagram+1 The on-site cafe provides a warm spot for hot chocolate, though it's wise to pack snacks and be aware of restroom availability for longer outings. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Date Nights

For a romantic winter outing, Red Arrow Park's 'Slice of Ice' is ideal. Skating hand-in-hand under the beautiful, festive nighttime lighting creates a magical atmosphere. Instagram+1 The surrounding downtown Milwaukee scenery adds to the charm. Instagram

After a session on the ice, warm up with a hot drink at the on-site cafe or explore the many dining options nearby. The park's central location makes it easy to combine skating with dinner or a show, offering a perfect blend of activity and relaxation for a date night. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Red Arrow Park offers excellent opportunities for photographers, especially during winter. The 'Slice of Ice' provides a dynamic foreground with the city skyline as a backdrop. Instagram The park's festive lighting after dark transforms the scene into a captivating, illuminated landscape, perfect for capturing stunning night shots. Instagram+1

Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for soft, warm light, or embrace the evening for vibrant, illuminated scenes. Drone photography can offer unique aerial perspectives of the rink and the surrounding urban environment, though it's essential to check and adhere to all local drone regulations. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Slice of Ice: A Winter Wonderland

Red Arrow Park's 'Slice of Ice' is a beloved seasonal attraction, transforming the heart of downtown Milwaukee into a winter playground. This 1.3-kilometer skating trail, winding through the park, offers a unique experience, especially when compared to traditional rinks. The Muskoka forest setting provides a picturesque backdrop, making it feel like a true winter wonderland. TikTok

Skate rentals are available, ensuring that even those without their own gear can partake in the fun. The rink's opening is highly dependent on weather, requiring consistently freezing temperatures, so it's always wise to check conditions before visiting. Reddit The park also offers 'Polar Pals' for rent, which are helpful for younger or less experienced skaters to maintain balance. Instagram

Beyond the skating itself, the park is known for its stunning nighttime lighting, which adds a magical ambiance to the experience. Instagram+1 It's a popular spot for families, friends, and couples looking for a festive outdoor activity during the colder months. Instagram

Beyond the Ice: Park Amenities and History

While the Slice of Ice is the main draw during winter, Red Arrow Park offers year-round appeal. The park features lawns and benches, making it a pleasant spot for relaxation or a picnic. It's also situated along the Milwaukee RiverWalk, providing scenic views and a connection to other downtown attractions. Instagram

The park holds historical significance as it is dedicated to the 32nd Infantry Division, also known as the 'Red Arrow' division. This memorial adds a layer of depth for visitors interested in military history or those with personal connections to the unit. Reddit

For refreshments, an on-site coffee shop serves hot drinks and snacks. While it replaced a Starbucks, it offers a convenient place to warm up. Reddit However, it's worth noting that public restroom availability can sometimes be a concern for visitors spending extended periods at the park. Reddit

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