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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical ambiance
Blue Cross RiverRink
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical ambiance

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.
"A fantastic place to take the kids for their first ice skating experience, not crowded and everyone was very nice!"
⛸️ 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!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ice Skating (Winter)
Main Rink
Glide across the ice with stunning waterfront and city views. A quintessential winter Philly experience.

Roller Skating (Summer)
Main Rink
Enjoy summer vibes on roller skates with a backdrop of the Delaware River and Ben Franklin Bridge.

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

Log Cabin Cabanas
Seating Area
Cozy, rentable cabins offer a private space for groups to relax, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Seasonal Fun & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛸️ 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!
🔥 Cozy Fire Pits
Enjoy roasting marshmallows at the fire pits, even if you're not skating. A great chill spot.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Galore
Arcade games, carnival rides, mini-golf, and skating make it a perfect family outing.
Tips
from all over the internet
⛸️ 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!
🔥 Cozy Fire Pits
Enjoy roasting marshmallows at the fire pits, even if you're not skating. A great chill spot.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Galore
Arcade games, carnival rides, mini-golf, and skating make it a perfect family outing.
📸 Waterfront Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the river, bridge, and city skyline, especially from the Ferris wheel.
🍔 Delicious Food Options
Grab classic Philly eats like Chickie's & Pete's Crabfries, tacos, and pizza.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Absolutely! The Delaware River Waterfront has a beautiful promenade perfect for walking and biking. There are often bike racks available.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during peak times. You can often find promo codes for discounts.
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.
Independence Blue Cross members get free skating admission. Keep an eye out for online promo codes for general admission discounts.
During busy periods, booking a specific time slot online is often required to manage capacity and ensure a good experience.
🎫 🎡 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.
Yes, you can rent log cabin cabanas, which are perfect for groups and offer a private, cozy atmosphere.
Absolutely! It's a very family-friendly destination with activities like arcade games, rides, and skating that kids love.
You'll enjoy beautiful views of the Delaware River and the iconic Ben Franklin Bridge, especially from the Ferris wheel.
Yes, the venue conducts bag checks before entry to ensure the safety of all visitors.
🍽️ 🍔 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.
Yes, there is a bar area that serves drinks, complementing the food options.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted, especially with bag checks in place. It's best to enjoy the onsite vendors.
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.
Many visitors rave about the Crabfries from Chickie's & Pete's and the various carnival treats like funnel cakes and fried Oreos.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, the twinkling lights of the city, the illuminated rink, and the bridge create a magical atmosphere perfect for night photography.
Golden hour (shortly before sunset) offers beautiful lighting. For cityscapes, dusk or nighttime with the lights on provides a dramatic backdrop.
You can take photos from the sidelines. If you're skating, be mindful of other skaters and use your phone cautiously.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
👫 Couples
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Transformations: Winterfest vs. Summerfest
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.
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.
Beyond the Rink: Activities and Amenities
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit