C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena
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C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena

4.6
·226 reviews·South Burlington, United States

A premier ice arena known for its exceptionally groomed ice and modern, clean facilities, perfect for hockey and skating.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, ideal for practice

CrowdLow
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C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena

C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, ideal for practice

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A premier ice arena known for its exceptionally groomed ice and modern, clean facilities, perfect for hockey and skating.

4.6
(226 reviews)

"The ice surface is consistently praised for being exceptionally well-groomed and smooth."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Event Schedules

Confirm game or event times before you go to avoid disappointment.

🚗 Easy Highway Access

Conveniently located off Highway 89, making arrival a breeze.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine Ice Surface

Pristine Ice Surface

Main Rink

Experience exceptionally well-groomed ice, free from dents, for a superior skating or playing experience.

Modern Locker Rooms

Modern Locker Rooms

Player Areas

Enjoy clean, well-maintained, and improved locker rooms, a welcome upgrade for players and teams.

Snack Bar & Amenities

Snack Bar & Amenities

Concourse Area

Grab a bite at the convenient snack bar, offering refreshments during your visit.

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Planning Your Visit

Check Event Schedules

The C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena hosts various hockey tournaments and events. Always check the official schedule before visiting to ensure you can access the rink or specific viewing areas.

Parking & Access

Located conveniently off Highway 89, the arena offers easy access. Parking is generally ample, but can fill up quickly during major tournaments or popular public skating times.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, ideal for practice
Crowd
Low
When
During tournaments
Why
Exciting atmosphere, see top talent
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Check Event Schedules

Confirm game or event times before you go to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🚗 Easy Highway Access

Conveniently located off Highway 89, making arrival a breeze. Reddit

👍 Clean Facilities

Locker rooms and ice surfaces are consistently praised for cleanliness. Reddit

🎶 Great Sound System

Enjoy clear audio for announcements and music on the rink. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Event Schedules

Confirm game or event times before you go to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🚗 Easy Highway Access

Conveniently located off Highway 89, making arrival a breeze. Reddit

👍 Clean Facilities

Locker rooms and ice surfaces are consistently praised for cleanliness. Reddit

🎶 Great Sound System

Enjoy clear audio for announcements and music on the rink. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(226 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena for its exceptionally well-groomed ice and clean, improved locker rooms. The convenient snack bar and good sound system also add to the positive experience. Some minor drawbacks include potentially limited skate sharpening services and a small pro shop.

"Good snack bar, great sound system on the rink! Easy access from 89"

Marc Truedson

"Awesome place to hold the Hockey Fights MS tournament in Burlington VT with 60+ teams. Nice locker rooms that were clean and well maintained. Ice was good too."

Ross Oder

"Pretty good arena, lots of open space in the front, unfortunately could not find sharpening and pro shop seemed pretty small. Good surfaces and locker rooms though"

Gabby Gelozin

What People Like

Pristine ice surface
Clean locker rooms
Good sound system

What People Dislike

Limited skate sharpening
Small pro shop

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The arena is easily accessible via Highway 89, making it convenient for drivers. Public transportation options may vary, so it's best to check local transit schedules if you're not driving. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available. It's generally ample, but can become crowded during major events or tournaments. Arriving early is recommended during peak times. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry requirements can depend on whether there's a specific event or public skating session. For tournaments or games, tickets may be required. It's advisable to check the arena's schedule or contact them directly for specific event ticketing information. Reddit

Operating hours can vary based on scheduled events, public skating sessions, and ice rentals. It's best to consult the official website or call the arena for the most up-to-date hours of operation. Reddit

Yes, ice time rentals are typically available. You'll need to contact the arena directly to inquire about availability, pricing, and booking procedures. Reddit

🎫 ⛸️ Onsite Experience

The ice surface at the C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena is consistently praised for being exceptionally well-groomed and smooth, with no noticeable dents. Reddit

Based on recent feedback, skate sharpening services might be limited or not readily available. It's recommended to have your skates sharpened elsewhere before your visit if this is a necessity. Reddit

The locker rooms have undergone improvements and are described as clean, well-maintained, and spacious, offering a good experience for players. Reddit

While there might be a small pro shop, its offerings might be limited. It's best to manage expectations regarding the size and inventory of any onsite pro shop. Reddit

Yes, visitors have noted that the arena boasts a great sound system, ensuring clear audio for announcements and music. Reddit

🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining

The C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena features a snack bar where you can purchase refreshments and snacks during your visit. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena is a great spot for families looking for ice-based activities. The exceptionally groomed ice makes it ideal for public skating sessions, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for children learning to skate. The clean and improved locker rooms offer comfort and convenience for families getting ready. Reddit

While there might not be extensive entertainment beyond the ice, the arena's focus on quality ice and good facilities makes it a reliable choice for a family outing. Parents can also appreciate the convenient snack bar for quick bites and the good sound system which can make events more engaging for younger audiences. Reddit

🏒 Hockey Teams and Tournaments

For hockey teams, the C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena offers a top-tier experience. The pristine ice surface is a major draw, providing an excellent playing field for tournaments and league games. The modern and clean locker rooms are a significant plus, offering ample space and good facilities for teams to prepare and debrief. Reddit

The arena's reputation for hosting successful events, like the Hockey Fights MS tournament, highlights its suitability for competitive play. The easy access and generally good parking also contribute to a smooth logistical experience for participating teams and their supporters. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Ice Quality and Maintenance

The ice surface at the C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena is a standout feature, consistently receiving high praise from visitors. Reviewers frequently mention that the ice is exceptionally well-groomed and smooth, with a notable absence of dents. This level of maintenance contributes significantly to a positive experience for both hockey players and skaters. The commitment to keeping the ice in top condition is a key reason why many return to this facility. Reddit

This dedication to ice quality is crucial for competitive play and recreational skating alike. It ensures a safer and more enjoyable time on the rink, allowing participants to perform at their best. The arena's efforts in maintaining such a high standard are clearly appreciated by its patrons. Reddit

Facility Improvements and Amenities

Significant improvements have been made to the C. Douglas Cairns Recreation Arena over the years, enhancing the overall visitor experience. The locker rooms, in particular, have been noted as being clean, well-maintained, and spacious, providing a comfortable environment for athletes. These upgrades reflect a commitment to modernizing the facility and meeting the needs of its users. Reddit

Beyond the locker rooms, the arena also offers a convenient snack bar for refreshments, and a great sound system that enhances the atmosphere during events. While some visitors have noted that a pro shop might be small or limited in its offerings, the core amenities like the ice and locker rooms are consistently well-regarded. Reddit

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