If you love good vibes, skating, mini golf, or just hanging out with friends and family, the Blue Cross River Rink is your spot to be. Opening on Friday, May 12, 2023, bring out all of the fun that there is to be had. I was invited to go to the preview, and I must say I was impressed with the offerings so let me break down the before you go and more.
Let’s Have a Night at the Blue Cross River Rink
There is a lot of security and I felt safe. The City of Philadelphia Police did a great job circling the area quite often. As soon as we pulled up there were several cops in cars and on foot. I am sure that will increase as the Rink stays open. There is a lot to do so I would suggest that you wear comfortable walking shoes. I didn’t see any socks for purchase so if you are skating bring them with you. There is fun for all ages there as well. As young as 2-3 years old had a great time bouncing around, winning at games and more.
Since there is so much to do, you may want to arrive as early as possible. This place can and will get congested so be sure to observe the activities and plan. For instance, I took my whole family to the preview. My husband and I divided and conquered. I took the younger two after they were done skating and one of my friends ended up taking my son on the Ferris Wheel while I took my youngest to the jumper. Parents should be aware of their kids. Even with it being a preview event, it was still quite a lot of people there. Have a plan in place or a meeting spot that is still well within the area in case someone gets lost.
River Rink’s Food and Drinks
At the preview there wasn’t a lot of variety of food. However, I have gone to the River Rink before and on a fully operated day there are many stands to get food, ice-cream, and more like Funnel Cakes and Fried Oreos. I did have some Fried Oreos and opted out of the funnel cake to balance my evening. The drinks whether alcoholic or not are delicious. If you enjoy beers and wine, there is a great selection of them as well.
For Food they had the infamous Chickie’s & Pete’s with crab fries and cheese sauce, pretzel bites, and Chicken fingers. It was served as a grab and go. We also had tacos: fish, chicken, and pork with plenty of chips and dips. The food again although not in their full capacity was delicious. The fair style food for me never gets old. Keep in mind that there is plenty of spaces to eat the food inside of The Lodge. You can walk around and drink as well but there are designated areas that forbid alcohol from being consumed usually near the actual skating rink. Follow the signs and be courteous of the staff that is on duty to help.
Activities to Do at the River Rink
There are carnival type games to play at various age and skill levels. Ride the carousel which is a favorite for so many. There are arcade games, mini golf, gravity storm bounce and don’t forget about the Ferris wheel. Each of these items are pay as you go. The price starts at $5 and up. All the games and rides will close about 30 minutes before the end of the night. So, plan accordingly while you are there. My kids and I had a blast. My youngest enjoyed the Gravity Moon Bounce the most. It made for great sleep that night.
Skating at the River Rink
Before you can skate, you will need to sign a waiver. You will be given a wristband that shows that a waiver was signed. Parents will need to sign off for their child as the child will wear the wristband too. You can reserve your skates ahead of time to beat the crowd. If you decide that you no longer want to skate, you can exchange the value for another time. Skate rentals are $10 dollars. If you are an Independence Blue Cross insurance card holder and employees, you can get 4 admissions per card. Skates are not included in that discount. Please bring photo id to match the card.
You can also rent a space for parties too. Check the website for more information. The rink opens tomorrow, Friday May 12 at 5pm. As always, the rink will be open for the season until September 24th, weather permitting. Bring your family and friends but leave the drama at home. The only way we all get to enjoy it is we all come, have fun, and treat everyone present with respect. Thank you to the Blue Cross River Rink staff for having us. We enjoyed ourselves and we went on my birthday, so I felt like it was one big party with many that I love, and it was a great night. Will you be there tomorrow?
