Could use a bit of a facelift. Rink is still in good shape, but the rest looks dated. Every pair of skates my kids get seem to need new laces. Overall, not bad but there are some areas that could be improved. read more

I had the worst experience here at riverside arena . My daughter had a birthday party here they served us cold pizza I told the kitchen manager. They wouldn't accommodate us to give us hot pizza . Also When It was time to sing happy birthday no one came and gave us cake plates to eat off of , neither did she bring a lighter to light the cakes . As we were waiting to see if she would come back to help us ! She never did next thing I know we were being kicked out the snack area because our time was "up " all without being able to sing happy birthday because we wasn't assisted properly . Not to mention the staff was rude . PLEASE DONT EVER GO HERE Especially if your black read more

**Review of Riverside Skating Arena in Livonia, Michigan** I recently held an event at Riverside Skating Arena in Livonia, and unfortunately, it was a very disappointing experience. When I arrived, I found out that the air conditioning was out in the month of August and there had been no prior notice about this issue. Given the heat inside the building, this made the environment uncomfortable and potentially unsafe, especially for guests with medical conditions. To give you an understanding of how hot it was... my forearms were drenched and my hair went from straight and styled to completely curly and frizzy. There were no box fans for guests only for the workers. Not to mention I had to ask for water for guests because initially the host said "they only get one soft drink". I paid my money on time and expected a venue that was prepared to host an event under reasonable conditions. When I called the owner to express my concerns, they acknowledged the heat but offered only two skate passes as compensation--no refund. The response I received was that they had their own bills to pay, which felt dismissive considering the circumstances. I later found out another guest went 3 weeks prior to my event and the air was out. This seems to be an ongoing issue that they intentionally not informing guests about. If you're planning an event here, I would strongly advise confirming all details in advance, especially regarding the facility's condition. My experience was far from what I had hoped for, and the lack of proper customer service made it even more disappointing. read more

It was my first time here and I am really into trying to see if I would like in line skates. I know how to ice skate so I heard it is similar. One thing that is different is that the right heel is where you break. This place had couple of different types of skates so the variety is there. The rink is pretty big and has a practice area which is good for people that are trying different fun ways to skate like SKATING backwards haha. The price is pretty up there for two people it was $30 and so we stayed until it closed. But time passes by real quick. The next day some of my coworkers were saying they were sore so it is definetely good work out. read more

Riverside Arena - Skating Rinks Near Me - Livonia, Michigan

We went a few weeks ago for a skate night tied to the school. The kids had a lot of fun and won some candy with red light/green light at the end (not sure if they always have candy, as this was around Halloween). We entered at the start of the event, so there was only a short line. They have a smoke machine and lots of flashing lights, which the kids enjoyed as well. Everyone had a good time and the price was reasonable. The only downside I would say was the pizza, particularly the dough and crust: I would not order it again. We had nachos and drinks that were fine. read more

They discriminate against special needs children. They will rent an assistive device and take your money. Then they keep them trapped in a crowded corner the size of a driveway. When I asked if they could make an exception for special needs, I was told "absolutely not" by a disheveled older employee. read more

It's great and all but mainly on teen nights it might be just here but it's super crowded and a couple people smoke and vape so not to much for family to be honest I would think u wouldn't be allowed to do that but if you have a mask and aren't near it you can't really smell it but take this as a warning read more

I used to come to Riverside when I was just a kid. Loved open skating to sweet jams with my friends. It had been about 18 years since I last visited but a couple of years ago I got a new pair of roller skates so I've been enjoying some skate time here. First off the rink is pristine. The first time I went on my skates was at a park and I completely wiped out on a rouge stick and severely injured my tailbone. Needless to say I was nervous about getting back on them. I shouldn't have been worries. Riverside's rink is smooth as glass. Rolling there is MUCH easier (and safer) than the outdoors, especially if you're learning (or relearning in my case) to work those wheels. Speaking of learning--If you're new to skates they do have a space that's available for practicing just off the rink. That really helped me get comfortable again without feeling freaked out by all the people whizzing past me. Tunes are stellar. During family open skate (wednesday nights) they have a nice mix of throwback jams like All-4-One, New Kids on the Block, Michael Jackson, and such, but also so top 40 hits. Great music to skate to. Looking for ALL throwback? Thursday nights are 70, 80s, and 90s night. I haven't been to that yet but it's on my list of things to do for sure. They also have adults only skate on Sundays from 8-10pm. That's nice if you're daunted by all the little kids on the rink doing WAY better than you. ;) If you've got kids family open skate (Wednesday and Saturday nights) is great and they've also got teen night on Fridays, family matinee on Saturdays, and learn to skate and preschool sessions as well. Prices are REALLY reasonable. Open skate varies from $4.50 to $8 plus skate rental (roller skates and inline skates available--$2-4). I was also really impressed that they had skates for little kids, too. I think I saw a girl as small as 2 out there with her dad! Never too early to start, I guess! Concession stand available if you want a snack. Admittedly I haven't eaten anything there (not even during our Yelp gathering, I was too busy skating!) but they do have pizza and such. They also hold special events like Valentine's Day or Halloween skates so if you're inclined to party on wheels it's worth keep an eye on their website! read more

Riverside Arena - Open skate! - Skating Rinks Near Me - Livonia, Michigan

This is a nice skating rink. There's a beginner area for you to warm up/teach yourself how to skate. After that, head to the big arena and skate to your heart's content to the song selection of the DJ. My only regret is my gf wasn't there so I could partake in the couple's skate songs! The food is meh. Don't come hungry. The bathrooms are nice and clean, thanks goodness. The staff at the concession stand could look a little happier. read more

Riverside Arena - Skating Rinks Near Me - Livonia, Michigan

They get one star because the DJ played a nice mix of music. However, the customer service sucked! They need to train whoever hands out the skates because he was beyond rude! He didn't know how to communicate and assumed I knew the protocol. Then he just slammed my shoes down upon returning. If my kids didn't really want to go skating I would've asked for a complete refund. I will not be back to that establishment! I can find better arena to spend my money! read more

from the moment we walked in there, everyone was rude. we got yelled at for every little move we made. my husband got yelled at for going "too fast" which he wasnt. my daughter fell and he got yelled at for picking her up. we got yelled at for using the skate helpers in the rink, when others had then and wasnt getting yelled at. A child who supposedly worked there kept yelling at us for stuff that didn't even make sense. He couldn't have been more than 13, I don't know how it's even legal. Don't go here if you don't want want to get yelled at. read more

Still a great place! Staff and owner really care, coaches are great! Would recommend ! Nice and big, bright, very open and airy! Floor is very well taken care of! read more

Okay, we scored some free admission coupons to this place. We're not big skaters. The kids do pretty well though, so off we went. My first impression: friendly, clean, and different then the other rinks I've visited. Different? How so you ask? First, it's layout is so skate focused. The party/snack area is off in one corner, the arcade in another. A beginner's area occupies a corner and the entrance takes the last. Second, everything worked. I've taken the kids to places where some lockers were broken, or the bathrooms lacked soap or tissue. Not here. It all worked. Third, there are mini lessons during the beginner skate session. Talk about value and convenience! I spent most of the session skating. I usually spend more time on my butt. And lastly, the family liked it right off the bat. The music met parental approval (most of the music at least), the kids felt like they had room to breath, the small skating area was great for getting acquainted with the skates, and there were other kids of all ages and skill levels there. No one was 'the "loser" that can't skate'. Yep, we will be back (even if I don't have a coupon). read more

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Old school roller skating at it's finest. Stepping into Riverside is just like stepping back in time to those middle school skating parties, with the flashing lights on the rink, the top 40 music, and the rental skates that smell of Lysol spray. $8 gets you in, another $2 gets you skates. For open skate, there's plenty of opportunities for everyone as well as specialty nights like Top 40 on Saturday or Adult Only skate on Sunday nights. There's a little practice area off in the corner that gives you a chance to find your skatin' legs if it's been a while since you've been on wheels. Once you're feeling confident, hit the open rink! Lockers to hold your belongings are $.50. The concession stand sells your basic fare of hotdogs, pizza, etc. Depending on the night you can come here and see everyone from kids, to teenagers, to middle aged folks all skating and having a great, wholesome time. If you're lucky there will be some real fancy skaters there doing tricks and synchronized moves in the middle circle. Skating isn't as popular as it used to be when I was young. But I really want to make it a point to come here more often. A cheap way to do something wholesome, active, and will create more of a lasting memory than going to see a movie. read more

Riverside Arena - Skating Rinks Near Me - Livonia, Michigan

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I've haven't been roller skating in years but I still got it; this takes me back to high school days. The staff was very friendly and the restroom were cleaned -- I highly suggest taking off your skates in there. The music stayed loud and everyone was feeling the skating vibe -- the DJ played a variety of selection and you are also allowed to suggest some of your favorites. Parking is in the rear -- Please note, there isn't a snack stand inside, so make sure to get before hand; if you are really hungry than there are a couple of high priced vending machines. read more

I have only tried the preschool skating class! Stay far away from the teacher (GLADYS Morgan)! I have never met a more rude person in my life. She was yelling from the minute we walked in. She yelled at my daughter for not knowing her shoe size right away. She yelled at me for not having cash. I'd rather pay double the price and not be exposed to a yelling angry lady. I contacted the pace but they somehow blamed all on her which from reading the reviews is common. I asked to talk to someone else since she seems so angry but she said she is the only one there. Not sure how this place is functioning. Stay away. read more

I have been skating here for many months now & I like how well they keep the rink floor clean. The staff is helpful and friendly. I purchased bearings and the staff offered to put them on for me immediately so that I can continue skating that night. read more

Planned a kids birthday party. They obviously oversold. Only 2 small tables for over 20 people. 30 minutes to eat pizza and do cake. Staff was nice but obviously overwhelmed. Kids ultimately had fun but would not recommend a birthday party here again. read more

In side is a family place to skate with your family. They also have good food. Clean bathroom

I like to know if my dad was ever involved with riverside and had anything to do with rollerskateing haven't been there 40years always had fun read more

They are very unprofessional and disrespectful. They let people stand outside for two hours and still won't let them in the arena, they are very racist and they discriminate against people of color. I did not have a good time with the staff or the place itself, this has not just happened to me it had happened to many people of color. read more

No masks or staff worrying about any standards. No sanitizing stations, amazed they are even allowed to be open. Hard to enjoy when you're worried about people infecting you read more

When I called to book a session with my daughter for her birthday the owner was very kind friendly. When I talk to the owner once more about dropping off the deposit he was very friendly and professional. And I just love a place that we have where we can go and rent out the entire skating rink and only have your family there which was totally cool so thank you very much and we will be in touch. read more

Not thrilled with this establishment that my family and I have been patrons of for the last 30 years. Our child wanted to go to open skate for his birthday last minute. Had his siblings and a couple friends who all paid their entry. Unfortunately they put up a huge fuss when we tried to enter with cupcakes. Not sure if customer service is gone, but they were willing to turn us all away after we paid for a entry and skates. Finally they allowed us to come in and took the cupcakes to the fridge. Again we were surprised when we asked for them they told us they'd give them back when we left. We told the family we'd give them their cupcakes later. We stayed and skated bought food and pop from concession. And when we were ready to leave I was escorted out, then given my cupcakes back. I understand rules are rules but to make a scene because of a couple of cupcakes at a table left a bad taste in our mouth. We will find somewhere else to skate closer to where we live. Shame on them for what would have been a nice family outing. read more

Skating!! I do not live near Riverside, but it is well worth the hike up 96. It's a big, wooden rink and super super shiny and slick, which is good! But also intimidating if you haven't been skating in a while and are trying to step your game up :-) Riverside has your typical locker area, skate rental counter, concession stand, small pro-shop and I love that they have a practice area! You can get the feel of being on skates in a smaller, confined area before you head out on the big rink. I went on a Saturday night, which was Top 40 night. The music was upbeat and included a pretty decent variety of genres. It was $8 and skate rental was $2 for regular skates and $3 for fancy lol. read more

Dear Riverside Arena, Heres a heads up--when asked, my friend was told this establishment was barrier free to get on the rink. Barrier free means NO STEPS. Not one. And nope, my power-wheelchair using kid CANT GET UP ONE SMALL STEP in her chair. Having a portable ramp is great, but no, I refuse to find someone to replace it every time she wants on or off the rink because accommodations = fire hazard. Someone needs to get a clue. Sincerely, Mom of one upset and crying child who had to leave a birthday party read more

Riverside keeps it's hardwood skate surface in great condition. This cannot be said for some other metro-Detroit roller rinks. Unfortunately, their regular rental skates haven't been updated in my lifetime. It is worth it to spend the extra money to rent either speed skates or inline skates. If you have indoor skates, bring your own. The music is the usual roller rink mix of Top 40, disco, and other oldies. They have a small side rink for people who don't know how to skate, but often it is being used by derby girls to practice. This might not be the ideal place for beginners as there is a small step up to get onto the rink. The rink is also very big. I might recommend a smaller rink for someone just beginning to skate. Riverside has various themed skate nights, including adult skates, matinees, and special activity nights. read more

This is a great rink whether you want a family day out skating, lessons, or private parties- the staff is always so friendly and helpful. Family matinee music is enjoyable and upbeat with keeping with a "family" atmosphere. I love that the facility is always clean, and neat and kept up. read more

Riverside Arena - Skating Rinks Near Me - Livonia, Michigan

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This place has zero crowd management and zero management period. They have an abundance of people waiting outside in line with no one monitoring the line so you have all these young unsupervised kids letting all their friends cut the line making everyone else's wait time longer. Then all you hear is cussing and kids talking about having to fight. People were pushing in the line it was NOT a good experience so my daughter and i had to leave because she didnt need to be exposed to that. When i called from the parking lot to explain what was going on i was rudely hung up on. I am very upset and disappointed as we used to always come here a d have her parties here. read more

We had a fantastic time they're celebrating my birthday - we lost an item and the staff is super helpful and found it and called me today. It was very clean fun safe rink and I highly recommend it read more

This is a very nice, and fun place to roller skate at with friends. However, The "DJ" was very impolite. Me and my friends simply asked for a song, and he said "I don't take song requests from children!" I have been coming here for a while and a DJ has never been so rude. read more

This definitely is one of the best skating rinks I have ever been to. This review has been written on 1/14/16 for those of you who are wondering for skating accuracy. The exterior will make you wonder about the inside. Don't judge by looks. *. As far as the music. Very good choices and all music was FOR all different genre's (most played was pop music). The music was very current not behind 1 or 2 years unlike other skating places. Defiantly a 5/5. * As far as quality of the skates. A 4/5 only because. They do not spray the skates when they are done with the user using them. Therefore, germs and bacteria spread to the next person who uses those skates. Otherwise I was able to use my skates that they provided without falling, great quality of skates. * Then Comes the staff. 5/5 for the staff, don't listen to other reviews, these staff are good. They suit all your needs and are very nice to take any suggestions or questions. *Parking was pretty good; although you had to go the back to park instead of the front. Overall 4/5, would recommend to friends! read more

Unfortunately, this is the only place I can go to skate on Thursdays, but it has come to a point now that I have stopped going. I can't force myself to go for the sake of exercise anymore. This place allows some of its skaters to speed skate CONSTANTLY. It doesn't matter, the music can be slow, fast, whatever, they speed skate all of the time and don't care if they almost knock you down. Riverside offers an entire long song for speed skaters only and will tell you to get off the floor if you cannot keep up. Well, why don't they offer a backwards skate song or play more slow music so people can skate to rhythms.? I have been to some places where if you cannot backward skate, you have to sit down until the next song. It is very difficult to work on moves, backward skate or skate to a RHYTHM if these people are constantly skating like bats out of hell. Its really sad because I have seen them knock people down and just keep going. This is dangerous and a lawsuit waiting to happen. NO THANKS Riverside. I will spend my money someplace else. read more

Came here for a birthday party scheduled weeks in advance for my daughter who was turning 11. The owner (that had the audacity to show me skates of his when he was younger to prove that he's been in the business for 73 years - yet was not 73 himself, and for the point of this rating, doesn't mean that in 73 years he's learned courtesy, how to run a successful business, where the people he makes his money from, leave happy) Arrived at 1:20 for a 2pm bday party when I wanted to set up and have the tickets in my hand so the guests wouldn't be waiting until after 2pm - when the party would already be commencing. Many of our guests weren't able to stay for the 5pm end skate time due to a daddy/daughter dance so I wanted it to begin on time without the chaos this place was creating. They actually demanded that I wait outside (!! It was 18 or less degrees with kids, or "go to dunkin donuts" until they were ready) The owner then yelled at me "are you blind" I have to clean up in here and blah blah. Basically after 73 years this professional still hadn't learned manners, time management nor how to treat people who are paying him. IF YOU BOOK A PARTY HERE : You are subject to the whims and fancies of the establishment INCLUDING VERBAL ABUSE. ATTESTED BY ANOTHER PARENT BEFORE ME AS WELL WHO SAID I WAS "ON TIME" NOT EARLY AND SAID HER PARTY WAS RUINED AND SPENT A FEW HUNDRED DOLLARS FOR DISAPPOINTMENT. I SUGGEST CHECKING OUT BONAVENTURE. HE NEVER EVEN SAID HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY 11year OLD DAUGHTER WHO WAS AGHAST AT HIS MANIACAL BEHAVIOR. NOT RECOMMENDED FOR ANYTHING. read more

A blast from the past! I felt like I was a kid again. The disco ball and colorful lights added to the fun atmosphere. The DJ played old 80s hits (Madonna, New Kids on the Block, etc) as well as new tunes (Justin Bieber, PSY, etc) and active songs that we all know like the hoekie poekie. The actual rink was well taken care. You can rent or bring your own roller skates. Some people decided to use rollerblades so there are two options of "skates". The bathrooms were clean and I love the colorful carpet on the wall. I didn't notice employees being stressed (like mentioned by previous yelper) but I can imagine it could easily occur with so many people. I found staff pleasant and helpful. The food selection is what you would expect: pizza, icees, pretzels, etc. I don't like that drinks are served in styrofoam cups especially when there are inexpensive materials which are more biodegradable. All in all, I enjoyed myself very much and look forward to going again. read more

BEWARE PARENTS DO NOT HAVE YOUR PARTY HERE! So today, I had a birthday party for my 7 year old son. It was at riverside arena here on Plymouth rd. I have got to say, it was the worst experience I have ever had in a business. First off, when I scheduled the party over the phone the owner sounded a bit funny and he said "sorry I had a bit too much nyquil" so that was red flag number one. Anyways, on the phone he told me that I would have 15 minutes before the party to come set up. I get there at 1:45 on the dot, I come in with my son and somebody at the front desk told us to go in. I walked in the door and owner starts screaming at me to get out. In which I replied "you told me to come 15 minutes early to set up" he then denies ever saying this. At this point I'm clearly upset, my son who has autism was really thrown off by him screaming at me and that completely ruined his birthday party. So we go back out as he screamed to us like we're criminals or something. We go through everything like he wants us to because at this point I'm just trying to cheer up my son. We go to our table and now I'm very mad because he told me that we would have a big table for presents and other things. We got two booths that fit 8 people. I told them that there was 12 kids coming and about 15 adults and he expected everyone to just stand I guess. So now I complain to staff about everything and they tell me that the owner always acts like this. They said he treats a lot of customers and employees like this. They were begging me to report his business! And when I told them about when I scheduled the appointment and he said that thing about the nyquil they said thats been the owners excuse the past 4 months and I guess he's going through a rough divorce. Divorce or not you do not treat paying customers like that. So after everything was done and everyone left I decided to try and talk to the owner to maybe get an apology or payment back or something. An employee opened the office door for me and the owner told me to come in amd very calmly I said that I would feel more comfortable if he stepped out of the office to talk because I felt threatened. He said and I quote "Well if you're not gonna come in then get the f*** out". We then got into a screaming argument with him just trying to escort me out of the building and calling the cops. No threats were made, I wasn't screaming until he did. He didn't want to hear how horrible he runs his business and forced me out of the door because of it. How dare he ruin my childs birthday! If i could give this 0 stars I would. read more

Fun place to go with the family! They have a small side rink for those who want to practice skating or learn to skate. The employees are very helpful and they have a mini lesson during the Saturday morning open skate in the side arena. Their website is up to date with open skating times, They have a pretty nice snack bar with standard food and drinks, pro shop, and an area for miscellaneous goods. We generally go on the weekends. read more

This was my roller rink growing up and I still love coming here. It feels like a step back in time. They still play the 90's dance jams at open skates, the snack bar and gift shop haven't changed, and it is just a fun place to be : ) read more

Been going to Riverside since 1998. My daughter now loves to skate there. Favorite Rink.

This place has been around for a long time. Good ole fashioned family fun. Mini bar/snack bar video games pleanty to do.