Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink - Image 1
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Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink

4.4
·150 reviews·Corning, United States

Affordable family ice skating fun with helpful staff, but bring your own skates due to rental quality concerns.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Family fun without breaking the bank

CrowdMedium
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Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink - Image 1

Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink

Best Time

Weekends

Family fun without breaking the bank

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Affordable family ice skating fun with helpful staff, but bring your own skates due to rental quality concerns.

4.4
(150 reviews)

"Great family fun that won't break the bank!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Your Own Skates

Rental skates are often worn out and uncomfortable. Bring your own for a better experience! :athletic_shoe:

Check Skate Sharpening Status

If getting skates sharpened, confirm pick-up timelines to avoid extra fees. :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Community Ice Skating

Community Ice Skating

Main Ice Rink

Enjoy affordable family fun on the ice, with staff ensuring safety and assistance for skaters of all levels.

Reddit
Skate Sharpening Service

Skate Sharpening Service

Pro Shop

Professional skate sharpening is available, but be aware of potential communication issues regarding completion times and fees.

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Planning Your Visit

Skate Rental Caution

While the Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink offers skate rentals, many visitors report they are worn out and potentially dangerous. Consider bringing your own skates for a safer and more comfortable experience on the ice. Reddit+1

Family Skating Support

The rink used to offer chairs for young children learning to skate, but this is no longer an option. If you have very young or beginner skaters, you might find it challenging to keep them on the ice. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Family fun without breaking the bank
Crowd
Medium
When
During community events
Why
Free skating opportunities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Bring Your Own Skates

Rental skates are often worn out and uncomfortable. Bring your own for a better experience! :athletic_shoe: Reddit+1

Check Skate Sharpening Status

If getting skates sharpened, confirm pick-up timelines to avoid extra fees. :iphone: Reddit

Young Kids May Struggle

Chairs for beginner skaters are no longer available. :child: Reddit

Staff Are Helpful

Friendly staff are on the ice to help skaters and ensure safety. :people_hugging: Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Your Own Skates

Rental skates are often worn out and uncomfortable. Bring your own for a better experience! :athletic_shoe: Reddit+1

Check Skate Sharpening Status

If getting skates sharpened, confirm pick-up timelines to avoid extra fees. :iphone: Reddit

Young Kids May Struggle

Chairs for beginner skaters are no longer available. :child: Reddit

Staff Are Helpful

Friendly staff are on the ice to help skaters and ensure safety. :people_hugging: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(150 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink is a popular spot for affordable family fun, with helpful staff on the ice. However, visitors frequently caution against using the rental skates, citing them as worn and potentially unsafe. The discontinuation of support chairs for beginners also impacts families with very young children. Reddit+3

"Corning New York had a free event for ice skating and a movie following today. This was the first time that I have ever seen of a free community outreach. Five stars all the way. Everybody was able to have skates even with the amount of people that showed up. I really like this place because they even have staff that is out on the ice making sure everybody is okay and helps them out if they fall. Very nice staff inside at the counter also. This was definitely different than the free community outreach Elmira New York had at the arena. There was barely a wait time in line to get space and to get out on the rink."

Christina Cundiff

"Would love to give 5 stars. We always have such a great time. Great spot in the middle of town to take the kids. I dropped my skates to get sharpened. They took my phone number and gave me the other portion of the ticket. I waited 2 weeks, no one called. I went to see if they were finished and they charged me more than double for “leaving” them there for more than 10 days… there is plenty of signage stating that would be the case, but no communication that they were done."

Elizabeth Musselman

"This used to be our favorite place... went tonight for the first time this season, and they don't use chairs for the kids anymore. We made it a few laps with the kids before we left. We would have gladly paid to use a chair and sign a waiver, but that's not even an option. Will skate somewhere else with our young children.

Do not recommend for kids learning to skate or that can't skate.

The skates are also in need of an upgrade. Would not recommend renting."

Megan Tuttle

What People Like

Affordable family fun
Helpful on-ice staff
Community events

What People Dislike

Worn-out rental skates
Lack of beginner support
Skate sharpening communication

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink is centrally located in Corning, New York, making it easily accessible by car. Parking is generally available nearby. Specific public transport options may vary, so it's best to check local transit schedules if you're not driving. Reddit

Yes, parking is typically available at or near the Nasser Civic Center. It's advisable to arrive a little early, especially during peak times or community events, to secure a convenient spot. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, especially for public skating sessions. It's recommended to check the official Nasser Civic Center website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date public skating schedule. TikTok

Yes, skate rentals are available. However, many reviews suggest the rental skates are in poor condition and recommend bringing your own if possible for safety and comfort. Reddit+1

While staff are present to help, the rink may not be ideal for very young children or absolute beginners due to the lack of support chairs and the condition of rental skates. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices are generally affordable, making it a great family activity that won't break the bank. Specific pricing for public skating sessions and rentals can be found on their official channels. Reddit

Yes, the rink sometimes hosts free community outreach events, which are highly praised. Keep an eye on their announcements for these opportunities. Reddit

For regular public skating sessions, advance booking might not always be necessary, but it's a good idea to check, especially for popular times or special events to avoid disappointment. TikTok

Bringing your own skates is generally welcomed and highly recommended by visitors due to the condition of the rental skates. Reddit+1

Typically, there is no fee for spectators to watch from the designated areas. This allows family and friends to enjoy the atmosphere without participating on the ice. Reddit

🎫 ⛸️ Onsite Experience

The ice condition can vary. While it's a popular spot for skating, the overall experience is significantly impacted by the quality of the rental skates and the availability of support for beginners. Reddit

Yes, there are staff members present on the ice during public skating sessions. They are there to ensure everyone's safety and assist skaters who may need help. Reddit

Amenities typically include skate rentals, restrooms, and a concession area. Some visitors have noted issues with the skate rental quality and a past offering of chairs for young skaters that is no longer available. Reddit+1

The Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink offers a skate sharpening service. However, be mindful of their policies regarding pick-up times and potential extra charges if skates are left for extended periods. Reddit

Crowd levels can vary. Weekends and special events tend to be busier. Arriving earlier in the session can sometimes help avoid the largest crowds. Reddit

🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining

Yes, there is usually a concession stand offering snacks and drinks. It's a convenient option for a quick bite while enjoying your time at the rink. Reddit

Policies on outside food and drinks can vary. It's best to check with the venue directly or look for posted signs regarding their specific rules. TikTok

Being located in Corning, NY, there are several dining options available in the vicinity of the civic center, ranging from casual eateries to more formal restaurants. Reddit

Concession stands usually offer typical rink snacks like hot dogs, popcorn, candy, and beverages. Perfect for a quick refuel during a skating session. Reddit

The rink can be a fun venue for birthday parties, offering active entertainment. It's advisable to inquire about party packages or group rates. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture action shots on the ice, or find scenic angles from the spectator areas. The bright lights and dynamic activity make for lively photos. TikTok

Generally, personal photography and videography are allowed for non-commercial use. Be mindful of other skaters and avoid obstructing pathways. TikTok

While personal cameras are usually fine, professional equipment like tripods or large lenses might require special permission. It's always best to check the venue's policy. TikTok

The rink is well-lit with overhead lighting, which is generally sufficient for capturing clear images. For low-light conditions, a phone with good low-light performance or a camera with manual settings will be helpful. TikTok

The main ice rink itself, with skaters in motion, is the primary photo opportunity. Capturing the energy of a community event or a family enjoying themselves can also make for memorable shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

The Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink offers an affordable outing for families, with staff on hand to help ensure safety. Reddit However, a significant drawback for families with very young or beginner skaters is the discontinuation of support chairs on the ice. Reddit This change means that little ones who are still unsteady may find it difficult to stay on the ice for long, potentially limiting the duration of your family's fun. Reddit

If your children are confident skaters or older, the rink can still be a great option. Consider bringing your own skates to ensure comfort and safety, as rental skates have received negative feedback. Reddit+1 Keep an eye out for community events that might offer free admission, making it an even more budget-friendly choice. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This ice rink is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers looking for family-friendly entertainment. Admission is generally affordable, and the rink is praised for being a fun activity that 'won't break the bank.' Reddit Keep an eye out for special community outreach events, as these have been known to offer free skating sessions, providing excellent value. Reddit

To maximize savings and comfort, it's highly recommended to bring your own skates, as rental skates have been described as worn and potentially unsafe. Reddit+1 This avoids rental fees and ensures a better skating experience. While there are concessions, packing your own snacks and drinks might be another way to keep costs down, though it's wise to check the venue's policy on outside food. TikTok

⛸️ Serious Skaters

For experienced skaters, the primary recommendation is to bring your own skates. The rental skates at Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink have been consistently described as worn out, uncomfortable, and even dangerous, with reports of ankles feeling unstable. Reddit+1 This makes them unsuitable for anyone looking for performance or even basic comfort during a skating session. Reddit

If you utilize the skate sharpening service, be sure to clarify pick-up times and any associated fees to avoid unexpected charges. Reddit While the rink offers a space to skate, the quality of rental equipment means that serious skaters will have a much better experience with their own gear. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Skate Rentals and Safety

A significant concern raised by visitors is the condition of the rental skates at the Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink. Multiple reviews highlight that the skates are worn out, uncomfortable, and potentially dangerous, with some describing ankles nearly snapping due to their poor state. Reddit+1 This has led to recommendations for visitors to bring their own skates whenever possible to ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience on the ice. Reddit+1

Furthermore, the customer service experience when trying to address issues with rental skates has been criticized, with some staff reportedly showing a lack of concern or helpfulness. Reddit This suggests that while skate rentals are offered, they may not be the best option for many skaters, especially those who are less experienced or particularly concerned about foot and ankle support. Reddit

For those who cannot bring their own skates, it's advisable to inspect them thoroughly before heading onto the ice and to communicate any concerns immediately to the staff, though be prepared for potentially unhelpful responses based on user feedback. Reddit

Family Fun and Accessibility for Young Children

The Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink is often lauded as a great spot for family fun that won't break the bank. Reddit Staff are present on the ice to ensure safety and assist skaters, contributing to a positive family atmosphere. Reddit However, a notable change has impacted families with very young children or those just learning to skate. Previously, the rink offered chairs to help support beginners on the ice, but this amenity is no longer available. Reddit

This absence of support chairs means that parents may find it challenging to keep their young children engaged and safe on the ice for extended periods. Reddit While the staff are helpful, they cannot replace the physical support that chairs provided. Therefore, families with toddlers or hesitant young skaters might want to consider this limitation when planning their visit. Reddit

Despite this, the rink remains a popular destination for affordable family outings. Community outreach events, sometimes offering free skating, are particularly well-received and highlight the rink's commitment to community engagement. Reddit

Skate Sharpening Services and Communication

The Nasser Civic Center Ice Rink provides a skate sharpening service, which can be a convenient option for skaters who need their blades maintained. Reddit However, there have been instances where communication regarding the completion of this service has been lacking. Reddit

One reviewer mentioned waiting for two weeks without being contacted about their sharpened skates, only to discover upon inquiry that additional fees were being charged for leaving them there beyond a certain period. Reddit While signage may exist detailing these policies, the lack of proactive communication led to a negative experience and unexpected costs. Reddit

For those utilizing the skate sharpening service, it is crucial to establish clear expectations regarding pick-up timelines and any associated fees. Following up proactively after a reasonable waiting period might be necessary to avoid misunderstandings and ensure a smooth transaction. Reddit

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