Bloomington Ice Garden | Bloomington

Bloomington Ice Garden (BIG) is a prominent year-round ice skating facility located in Bloomington, Minnesota. Opened in 1970, it holds a significant place in Minnesota's ice sports history and is regarded as one of the premier community rinks in the state. The facility serves as a vital hub for ice-related recreation, training, and competition, hosting thousands of skaters, hockey players, and figure skaters each year. Managed by the City of Bloomington's Parks and Recreation Department, BIG combines professional-grade amenities with a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere.

Overview and Significance

The Bloomington Ice Garden is especially known for being one of the first facilities in the United States to feature three indoor ice rinks under one roof. Its reputation for quality ice, consistent programming, and support for youth and amateur athletics has made it a cornerstone in the local sports scene for over five decades. The arena is used by local schools, professional development programs, and the general public, and it’s an essential part of Bloomington’s athletic infrastructure.

Facilities and Features

1. Three Indoor Ice Rinks

Rink 1 (Olympic-size rink): This Olympic-standard sheet of ice is larger than a typical NHL rink (100’ x 200’ compared to 85’ x 200’) and is primarily used for figure skating, speed skating, and international-style hockey.

Rink 2 & Rink 3 (NHL-size rinks): These are standard North American-sized rinks used for high school games, youth leagues, and community open skate times.

2. Seating and Spectator Areas
Rink 1 features bleacher-style seating for approximately 2,500 spectators, which makes it suitable for hosting larger tournaments and high-profile events. Rinks 2 and 3 have smaller seating capacities, typically accommodating 150–300 spectators, suitable for local games and practice sessions.

3. Locker Rooms and Amenities
There are multiple team locker rooms equipped with benches, showers, and secure storage. Additional changing areas support the high volume of daily users. There are also dedicated rooms for officials, training staff, and coaches.

4. Pro Shop and Skate Rental
The in-house pro shop offers skate sharpening, gear sales, and rentals for both hockey and figure skates. This makes the rink accessible to newcomers who may not have their own equipment.

5. Training and Meeting Rooms
BIG includes several multipurpose rooms used for off-ice training, classroom instruction, coaches' meetings, and private event rentals.

Programs and Activities

1. Youth and High School Hockey
BIG is a home arena for the Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars and Bloomington Kennedy Eagles high school teams. It also serves several youth hockey associations, including the Bloomington Amateur Hockey Association (BAHA). These programs use the facility for practices, league games, tournaments, and skills development.

2. Figure Skating
The Bloomington Figure Skating Club operates out of BIG and offers programs for all skill levels, from beginners to competitive skaters. Skaters can participate in USFSA-sanctioned competitions, learn-to-skate classes, and seasonal showcases.

3. Adult Leagues
The facility runs year-round adult recreational hockey leagues for various skill levels. These leagues provide local adults with the opportunity to stay active and involved in the sport long after their youth playing days.

4. Public Skating and Events
BIG hosts regular public skate sessions, open figure skating ice time, and family events. These community-oriented programs promote physical fitness and offer affordable recreational opportunities.

5. Special Events and Tournaments
The arena is a popular venue for local and regional hockey tournaments, figure skating competitions, and training camps. Events such as Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) section playoffs, USA Hockey events, and synchronized skating meets are regularly held.

Renovations and Upgrades

The Bloomington Ice Garden has seen multiple upgrades since its original construction in 1970. Notable improvements include:

Mechanical System Upgrades: Modernization of refrigeration systems to improve energy efficiency and ice quality.

Lighting Upgrades: Installation of LED lighting for improved visibility and energy conservation.

Accessibility Enhancements: Compliance with ADA guidelines through improved access points, ramps, and restrooms.

Locker Room Renovations: Expanded and modernized team rooms to better serve youth programs and tournaments.

These renovations ensure that BIG remains competitive with modern ice arenas and continues to meet the needs of skaters and spectators alike.

Accessibility and Location

Located at 3600 West 98th Street, Bloomington, MN, the Ice Garden is easily accessible via I-35W and Highway 494. The facility offers ample free parking and is situated within a larger recreational complex that includes outdoor fields and walking trails.

It is also a short distance from other Bloomington attractions like the Mall of America and Hyland Lake Park Reserve, making it convenient for families combining sporting events with broader leisure activities.

Community Impact

BIG has played a major role in developing athletic talent, fostering community pride, and promoting youth development in Bloomington. Its programs offer not only sports instruction but also character-building opportunities through teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. It serves as both a training ground for elite skaters and a welcoming space for families and children just starting out on the ice.

Summary

The Bloomington Ice Garden is more than just an ice arena-it's a vital community resource and a beacon for Minnesota's deep-rooted hockey and skating culture. From Olympic-size rinks to grassroots programs, it provides a high-quality, inclusive, and multifaceted space for recreation, competition, and community events. With a legacy that stretches over 50 years, BIG continues to evolve, ensuring future generations enjoy access to ice sports in a supportive and state-of-the-art environment.