“We are very excited to launch our Skating in the Sky program at the Observatory, which has proven to be a family- and budget-friendly (not to mention warm) way to enjoy the Chicago winter season,” said Daniel Thomas, general manager, John Hancock Observatory. “Our guests have been asking to go for a skate all year, but now the ice is down and ready for another great season of experiences.
The ‘ice’ rink, which measures approximately 20’ x 45’ feet, is a synthetic surface called Xtraice and is the closest thing to real ice without water. Even though skaters take to the ‘ice’ in the middle of winter, the experience is all inside, so there’s no getting cold – or wet – a major benefit for parents of small children. The same synthetic ice surface is installed on more than 130 rinks in 35 countries and is used as a practice surface by the likes of the Florida Panthers and Disney Parks.
Because of the high-level of demand last year, John Hancock Observatory created an online ticket and reservation system on their Web site at www.JHOChicago.com where reservations are required for skating sessions. A 25-minute skating session is $6 (plus admission) and guests are welcome to either bring their own skates or rent them at the Observatory for only $1. The rink will be open daily from 9AM – 10:30PM beginning January 1st thru April 8th.
About John Hancock Observatory
Located inside the iconic John Hancock Center, John Hancock Observatory is open every day from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. and, at 875 North Michigan Avenue, stands in the heart of The Magnificent Mile® next to hundreds of shops, restaurants, attractions and entertainment venues. Highlights include spectacular 360° views spanning 80 miles and four states and the city’s only open-air Sky Walk, all accessed by the fastest elevators in the country. John Hancock Center and John Hancock Observatory are owned and operated by affiliates of Golub & Company. More information at www.jhochicago.com.