This article and many more can be found in our 48 page 2024-2025 Winter Guide. The guides are available in racks all across Minot Air Force Base, or can be viewed online at northernsentry.com
While winter in Minot, North Dakota, might not be for everyone, it offers countless opportunities for adventure and memorable moments. One of the most enjoyable winter activities in the area is ice skating. Minot is home to several ice rinks, both indoor and outdoor, providing options for everyone to enjoy skating during the winter months. It’s a great opportunity to embrace the cold Minot weather, which allows for outdoor ice rinks, something not many places offer. Skating outdoors under the stars and taking in the fresh air adds to the unique experience.
A New Chapter for Downtown Minot and Minot Air Force Base
Earlier this year, Minot AFB Homes created its very own ice-skating rink on base. Located right behind the fire pit when coming into base and off Eagle Way, residents can find a large frozen ice patch that is perfect for outdoor ice skating or other ice related activities.
It has been a few months since the rink was filled and since then inclement winter weather has rolled in and caused some changes to the ice. But MAFB residents say that it is still workable. Jenna Turner said, “My husband and kids went [to the rink] about 2 weeks ago. It’s a little choppy due to it freezing during high winds. But that is closest to the grass line.” Robbyn Gissel said, “They aren’t bad but could use a good plow. With the wind there is one small patch to ice on that’s usable, but the rest is rocky. My family and I love it because it is just down the road but if they can be cleaned up a little that would be even better!”
According to a source, the Housing Resident Advocate for MAFB Homes has been contacted and the request to snowplow and do some maintenance on the rink has been put in as of February 2025.
For fans of downtown Minot, Citizen’s Alley Ice Rink has long been a popular winter attraction. However, this rink will be closed for the 2024-2025 winter season due to construction. The rink is undergoing major renovations and is expected to reopen as part of a new four-season public plaza in Winter 2025-2026. This exciting new facility will bring year-round entertainment to downtown Minot, offering even more opportunities for recreation and community events.
Outdoor Ice Rinks in Minot:
Minot Park District operates three outdoor ice rinks for public use, which are perfect for those who love the crisp air and natural beauty of winter skating. These rinks are typically open by late December, depending on weather conditions, as the rinks need to be filled with water, and temperatures must be cold enough to freeze properly becoming ice sheets.
The outdoor rinks are located at:
- Roosevelt School: 619 9th St NE
- Corbett Field: 600 13th St SE
- Polaris Park: 712 26th Ave NW
While these rinks are available for skating at any time at no cost to visitors, warming houses are only open during designated hours for those looking to take a break, change their skates, or warm up with a hot drink at the concession stand for a small price (cash only). The warming houses are open during the following hours: - Monday to Friday: 4:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Visitors may bring their own ice skates to any rink, and for those needing rentals, skates are available for $5 (cash only). While there are no age restrictions for skating, children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Skate rentals are only available during warming house business hours.
Indoor Skating at Maysa Arena
- If you prefer skating indoors or want a break from the cold, head to Maysa Arena, which boasts three indoor ice rinks. As the third-largest ice rink facility in North Dakota, Maysa Arena is a popular destination for public skating. Since the rink hosts various events and hockey practices, be sure to check the arena’s website for the latest public skating hours, which vary:
- Public Skating Admission: $5
- Skate Rentals: $5
In addition to public skating, Maysa Arena offers a changing area, concession stand and a Private Party Room for those looking to celebrate on the ice. Their Party Package costs $228 and includes skate rentals for up to 12 skaters, one hour of ice time, and two hours in the private party room. Additional fees apply for groups larger than 12.
Whether you’re skating under the open sky at one of Minot’s outdoor rinks or enjoying the warmth of Maysa Arena’s indoor facilities, the city offers something for every ice-skating enthusiast. So, gather your friends and family, lace up your skates, and make the most of this winter season with some fun on the ice!