Disco skating rolls into Navy Pier for summer
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As someone who loved disco skating at birthday parties in the old Rainbo and Axle Roller Rinks, I couldn't wait to relive my childhood at the new Summer Skate at Navy Pier.
State of play: The new attraction opened last week in the old Crystal Gardens space with disco lights, dancey tunes and spectacular views of the lake and the Ferris wheel.
- Tickets ($17.75 to $20.38) include admission and skate rental but the price remains the same even if you bring your own skates.
- Instead of a smooth wooden floor, this one features colorful interlocking pieces of plastic, which create a decent skating surface.
Yes, but: Resuming my disco skating routine wasn't super easy. My shins and lower legs got super sore fast and I only lasted about 25 minutes.
- Sure, 45 years of not roller skating contributed to the discomfort. But a lot came from the derby-style skates they rent out, which can be rough on the shins for the uninitiated.
That said, Navy Pier's new attraction offers a lot to enjoy. For those with their own skates or stronger shins than mine, Summer Skate can offer a nostalgic roll down memory lane.
If you go: The rink operates noon to 8pm, Monday-Thurday; noon to 9 Friday; and noon to 10pm Saturday through Sept. 7.