Blue Cross RiverRink - a group of rocks in the water
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Blue Cross RiverRink

4.5
·6k reviews·Philadelphia, United States

Philly's iconic riverside rink transforms for ice skating in winter and roller skating in summer, offering rides, games, and great views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, magical ambiance

CrowdLow
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Blue Cross RiverRink - a group of rocks in the water

Blue Cross RiverRink

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, magical ambiance

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Philly's iconic riverside rink transforms for ice skating in winter and roller skating in summer, offering rides, games, and great views.

4.5
(6k reviews)

"A fantastic place to take the kids for their first ice skating experience, not crowded and everyone was very nice!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⛸️ IBX Insurance Discount

Show your Independence Blue Cross card for free skating admission! Skate rentals are extra.

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save $5 with online promo codes when booking in advance. Don't miss out like I did!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ice Skating (Winter)

Ice Skating (Winter)

Main Rink

Glide across the ice with stunning waterfront and city views. A quintessential winter Philly experience.

Roller Skating (Summer)

Roller Skating (Summer)

Main Rink

Enjoy summer vibes on roller skates with a backdrop of the Delaware River and Ben Franklin Bridge.

Ferris Wheel

Ferris Wheel

Carnival Area

Soar high above Penn's Landing for panoramic views of the city and river. Perfect for photos!

Log Cabin Cabanas

Log Cabin Cabanas

Seating Area

Cozy, rentable cabins offer a private space for groups to relax, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

Visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays can mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience. Look for online promo codes for discounts on tickets, especially if buying in advance. Check for special event days that might offer unique experiences but could also increase attendance.

Seasonal Fun & Amenities

The Blue Cross RiverRink transforms seasonally, offering ice skating in winter and roller skating in summer. Beyond the rink, enjoy carnival rides, mini-golf, arcade games, and cozy fire pits. Consider renting a log cabin for a group gathering, but be aware of potential bag checks for safety.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, magical ambiance
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Great for families, less busy
Crowd
Medium
When
Summerfest (May-Sept)
Why
Roller skating & carnival fun
Crowd
High
When
Winterfest (Nov-Mar)
Why
Classic ice skating charm
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @ledeee_650 Here’s the location and everything you need to know about Blue Pools in Oregon! #oregon #PNW #roadtrip #bluepool #traveltok #tamolitchbluepool #mckenzieriver #Hiking #hike
@camryndevitravels
14.7K likes • 129.1K views

⛸️ IBX Insurance Discount

Show your Independence Blue Cross card for free skating admission! Skate rentals are extra. Reddit

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save $5 with online promo codes when booking in advance. Don't miss out like I did! Reddit

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest traditions are limitless! Check out these fan favorites. Which tradition excites you the most? Reserve your tickets now at RiverRink.com and get ready to create warm winter memories. #MyPhillyWaterfront #RiverRink #BlueCrossRiverRink #Winterfest #PhillyWinterfest #WinterfestTraditions #WinterInPhilly #WinterOnTheWaterfront #PhillyIceSkating #IceSkating #phi...
ibxriverrink
245 likes • 7.7K views
Summerfest at the Independence Blue Cross RiverRink @ibxriverrink in Penn’s Landing is officially open for the season since May 12. There is something for everyone here roller skating @ibxriverrink, mini golf, arcade games, great food, drinks & Carnival rides 🛼⛳️🕹️🎡🎠🥂🍟 Such a great spot & is also family friendly. check it out now through September 24th and have as much fun as I did 🎉 Let me kn...
dhruvii_s
0 likes • 1.9K views

🔥 Cozy Fire Pits

Enjoy roasting marshmallows at the fire pits, even if you're not skating. A great chill spot. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun Galore

Arcade games, carnival rides, mini-golf, and skating make it a perfect family outing. InstagramReddit

Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest is back! One of the Philadelphia Waterfront’s favorite summertime traditions. It features roller skating, outdoor boardwalk games and rides, mini-golf, and great food and drinks, all with views of the Delaware River and the Ben Franklin Bridge. Summerfest is the perfect place for a family outing, a school trip, date night, or a meet-up with friend...
mommypoppinsphl
46 likes • 1.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⛸️ IBX Insurance Discount

Show your Independence Blue Cross card for free skating admission! Skate rentals are extra. Reddit

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save $5 with online promo codes when booking in advance. Don't miss out like I did! Reddit

🔥 Cozy Fire Pits

Enjoy roasting marshmallows at the fire pits, even if you're not skating. A great chill spot. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun Galore

Arcade games, carnival rides, mini-golf, and skating make it a perfect family outing. InstagramReddit

📸 Waterfront Photo Ops

Capture stunning shots of the river, bridge, and city skyline, especially from the Ferris wheel. InstagramReddit

🍔 Delicious Food Options

Grab classic Philly eats like Chickie's & Pete's Crabfries, tacos, and pizza. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.5
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Blue Cross RiverRink for its vibrant seasonal atmosphere and diverse activities, from ice skating to carnival rides. The waterfront location and city views are major draws, and many appreciate the family-friendly environment and food options. Some find the skate rental prices high, and occasional issues like broken fireplaces in cabins have been noted.

"They have renovated the park and are doing more renovations apparently. Visited there for Mexican Independence Day and it was significantly more pleasant to be there than the last years."

Negar Ghasemi

"Took the kids today, we are from Florida. And what an amazing experience! This has been the best place to take them to ice skate for the first time as it was not crowded! Their first time ice skating! We also played at the Arcade and they won 5 prices from the machines!! If you buy tickets in advance online they give you $5 off with a promo code, that I missed a letter and didn’t take! But that was my fault! Kids skated and nobody rushed them to get out when time was over! Everyone working here was very nice!"

Beatriz Aviles

"We had a great day at Penn's Landing. We went on the Ferris Wheel and it was great to see everything from so high."

Christine McClellan-Strockbine

What People Like

Seasonal atmosphere
Waterfront views
Variety of activities

What People Dislike

High skate rental cost
Occasional amenity issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Blue Cross RiverRink is located at Penn's Landing on the Delaware River Waterfront. It's accessible by public transportation, including SEPTA buses and the Market-Frankford Line. Driving is also an option, with nearby parking garages available. TikTok

Yes, there are several parking garages and lots near Penn's Landing. Rates can vary, so it's good to check in advance or be prepared for city parking prices. Instagram

Absolutely! The Delaware River Waterfront has a beautiful promenade perfect for walking and biking. There are often bike racks available. Instagram

The venue is generally accessible, with ramps and pathways designed for ease of movement. It's always a good idea to contact them directly for specific accessibility needs. Instagram

Many SEPTA bus routes stop near Penn's Landing, and the 5th Street/Independence Hall station on the Market-Frankford Line is a short walk away. Check SEPTA's website for the most current routes and schedules. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Skating admission is free if you show your Independence Blue Cross insurance card. Otherwise, there's a fee. Skate rentals are an additional cost, which some find to be quite high. Reddit

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during peak times. You can often find promo codes for discounts. Reddit

Hours vary significantly by season (Winterfest vs. Summerfest) and day of the week. It's best to check the official Blue Cross RiverRink website for the most up-to-date schedule. Instagram

Independence Blue Cross members get free skating admission. Keep an eye out for online promo codes for general admission discounts. Reddit+1

During busy periods, booking a specific time slot online is often required to manage capacity and ensure a good experience. Reddit

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

Beyond skating, enjoy a Ferris wheel, carnival games, mini-golf, and an arcade. In winter, there are also cozy fire pits and rentable log cabins. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, you can rent log cabin cabanas, which are perfect for groups and offer a private, cozy atmosphere. Reddit+1

Absolutely! It's a very family-friendly destination with activities like arcade games, rides, and skating that kids love. InstagramReddit

You'll enjoy beautiful views of the Delaware River and the iconic Ben Franklin Bridge, especially from the Ferris wheel. Instagram+1

Yes, the venue conducts bag checks before entry to ensure the safety of all visitors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining

Expect classic festival foods like funnel cakes and fried Oreos, along with popular Philly favorites such as Chickie's & Pete's Crabfries, tacos, and pizza. Instagram+1

Yes, there is a bar area that serves drinks, complementing the food options. Reddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted, especially with bag checks in place. It's best to enjoy the onsite vendors. Reddit

While specific options can vary, festival-style food often includes items like corn, fries, and pizza which may have vegetarian choices. It's best to inquire with vendors directly. Instagram

Many visitors rave about the Crabfries from Chickie's & Pete's and the various carnival treats like funnel cakes and fried Oreos. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The Ferris wheel offers incredible panoramic shots. The waterfront promenade with the Ben Franklin Bridge in the background is also a prime photo location. InstagramReddit

Yes, the twinkling lights of the city, the illuminated rink, and the bridge create a magical atmosphere perfect for night photography. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly before sunset) offers beautiful lighting. For cityscapes, dusk or nighttime with the lights on provides a dramatic backdrop. Instagram

You can take photos from the sidelines. If you're skating, be mindful of other skaters and use your phone cautiously. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. Professional shoots might require permits, so it's best to check with management if you plan extensive filming or photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Blue Cross RiverRink is a fantastic destination for families. During Summerfest, the carnival rides, arcade games, and mini-golf provide endless entertainment for children of all ages. Winterfest offers a magical ice skating experience, often less crowded on weekday mornings, making it ideal for first-time skaters. InstagramReddit The Ferris wheel is also a hit with kids, offering exciting views of the city. Consider renting a log cabin for a comfortable base where kids can relax and enjoy snacks. Reddit

Many reviewers highlight the friendly staff and the fact that no one rushes you off the rink when your time is up, contributing to a stress-free family outing. The variety of food options, including kid-friendly classics, ensures everyone finds something they'll enjoy. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, leveraging the Independence Blue Cross insurance discount for free skating admission is a major win. Reddit While skate rentals have a cost, this still significantly reduces the overall expense. Look for online promo codes when purchasing tickets in advance to snag further discounts. Reddit Visiting on weekday mornings can also mean fewer crowds and potentially a more relaxed pace, without necessarily incurring extra costs. Reddit

While some activities like the Ferris wheel and arcade games add to the cost, focusing on the skating and enjoying the general atmosphere can still provide a great experience. Packing your own water bottle and snacks (if permitted, though bag checks are common) can also help save money on concessions. Reddit

👫 Couples

The Blue Cross RiverRink offers a charming setting for couples, especially during its seasonal transformations. Ice skating hand-in-hand during Winterfest, followed by warming up by a fire pit, creates a romantic winter date. InstagramReddit Alternatively, roller skating under the summer sky during Summerfest, with the city lights as a backdrop, provides a fun and lively evening. Instagram Renting a log cabin can offer a more intimate and private experience for a special occasion. Reddit

Enjoying drinks from the bar and sharing classic Philly treats like Crabfries adds to the date night experience. The waterfront views and the gentle breeze from the river contribute to a picturesque and memorable outing. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Seasonal Transformations: Winterfest vs. Summerfest

The Blue Cross RiverRink is a dynamic destination that completely transforms its offerings with the seasons. In the winter, it becomes Winterfest, centered around a large ice skating rink. The atmosphere is festive and cozy, with warm drinks, fire pits, and the opportunity to rent charming log cabin cabanas for a more intimate experience. It's a classic Philadelphia winter tradition, drawing crowds eager for holiday cheer and outdoor fun. Instagram+1

Come warmer weather, the ice melts away, and Summerfest takes over. The main attraction shifts to roller skating, but the fun doesn't stop there. Summerfest boasts a lively carnival atmosphere with mini-golf, arcade games, boardwalk-style rides, and delicious festival food. The waterfront location remains a highlight, offering stunning views of the Delaware River and the Ben Franklin Bridge, making it a perfect spot for a summer evening out. Instagram+2

Regardless of the season, the Delaware River Waterfront location provides a picturesque backdrop. Both iterations of the RiverRink aim to create memorable experiences, whether you're seeking a chilly winter adventure or a sun-drenched summer escapade. Planning your visit around the specific seasonal offerings will help you make the most of this versatile attraction. Instagram

Beyond the Rink: Activities and Amenities

While the skating rink is the star, the Blue Cross RiverRink offers a wealth of other activities to fill your visit. For thrill-seekers and families alike, the Ferris wheel provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Philadelphia skyline and the Delaware River. It's a fantastic spot for capturing memorable photos and enjoying the scenery from a unique vantage point. InstagramReddit

If you're looking for some friendly competition or just a bit of fun, the arcade games and mini-golf are sure to entertain. These attractions are particularly popular with younger visitors and add another layer of entertainment beyond the main rink. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the fire pits offer a cozy place to gather, warm up, and perhaps even roast marshmallows, especially during Winterfest. InstagramReddit

For groups or those wanting a more exclusive experience, the log cabin cabanas are a standout feature. These private spaces can be rented, offering a comfortable retreat with amenities like heaters and blankets, perfect for parties or simply enjoying the atmosphere away from the main crowds. Be aware that bag checks are conducted for safety before entering these areas. Reddit

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