2019-10-13. Suburban Ice, Macomb…read more
Located just north of the Macomb Recreation Center on Broughton Rd. at 25 Mi., Suburban Ice is an Ice Rink facility offering the use of two NHL regulation size rinks. Visible from 25 Mile road, it's easy to find and their private parking lot hosts over a hundred spaces to accommodate those filling the stands.
A single story building, the footprint is simple and well laid out. The mezzanine is spacious to handle both crowds and players with their gear. There is a pro shop, a rental booth, a concierge for check ins, and vending machines to purchase sundries.
In addition to renting ice time, they also offer a variety of programs from skating lessons to pick up hockey, to leagues of all skill levels. You're never too young nor too old at suburban ice. They have programs for pre-schoolers, Drop-ins 45+, and everything in between. There is also free skate hours and evening sk8 Jamz in the evenings where the rink is lit with neon lights and music. These are open to the public and public skate tickets are $5 (weekdays), $6 (weekends), and $7 (holidays). Rentals, if required are an additional $2 (weekdays) and $3 (weekends and holidays). Sk8 Jamz are $10 for admission and $3 for rentals.
We were here today for a birthday party. This location no longer has party rooms, but they did turn an alcove area into a party area. This party area is essentially a space enclosed on three sides and is located at the north end of the building near the rest rooms and skate rentals. It can accommodate 32 comfortably and squeeze 40 in the area. If you have larger groups than this they can still accommodate, but your party will encroach into the mezzanine area.
Party packages vary in price depending on the ice time you wish. The more cost efficient package includes ice time during public skate hours and is essentially $15 per head with a 10 head minimum. A $50 non-refundable deposit is required at time of booking. The fee covers ice time, rentals, pizza (1 slice pp catered by Jets), soda pop, and the use of the party area. Keep in mind, the place does not have a kitchen, so food options are very limited. They serve hot cacao, coffee, fountain drinks, and popcorn. All else will come from vending machines. If you want additional pizza, let them know in advance and they can help you place the order with Jets. Tables, chairs, and place settings are all provided for. A party host greets you and explains everything to you. They will also check on you from time to time to ensure your needs are covered.
Due to the limited food options, Suburban Ice also allows you to bring in other dietary foods if necessary. We inquired about bringing in our own veggie tray, fruit tray, sandwich platter, non carbonated juices, water, birthday cake, and received the green light to do so.
The entire ground surface is covered with a rubber flooring so you don't have to worry about movement between the party area and the rink. If your balance is good, your skates need not come off the entire time you're there!
Overall, I was pleasantly surprised with the experience. I was worried about not having an enclosed space for the party, but found the openness to be a non-issue. The price of $15/head is competitive (a tad higher than roller skating parties) but not way out of line. Would I recommend having a party here, absolutely! The staff is friendly and attentive, the proximity of rink to the party area is as good as it gets, and the fact that rentals and the restroom are nearby is the "ice"-ing on the cake! 5 stars.
Tip: the rink area has to be kept cold. If you're not an avid skater, you will get cold from lack of movement. Be sure dress appropriately (layering is best. and don't forget mittens/gloves!) and always ensure safety first, so be sure to bring and wear a helmet, It's required for kids under 10!
If You would like to experience more, come dine-with-me.yelp.com I'd love to have your company... See you on the ice!
