Lansing Ice Complex | Lansing

The Lansing Ice Complex, more formally known as the Biggby Coffee Ice Cube East Lansing, is a premier ice sports facility located at 2810 Hannah Boulevard in East Lansing, Michigan. It is one of the most significant and frequented ice arenas in the state, providing a comprehensive environment for skating, hockey, figure skating, and community engagement. The facility spans approximately 90,000 square feet and includes two NHL-sized ice rinks, making it a versatile venue capable of hosting a wide variety of ice-related activities year-round.

History and Ownership

The facility was originally established in 1999 under the name Suburban Ice East Lansing. In April 2023, it was acquired by the Black Bear Sports Group, a management company specializing in ice sports and related facilities. Following this acquisition, the facility was rebranded as the Biggby Coffee Ice Cube East Lansing, reflecting new ownership and sponsorship while maintaining its deep-rooted presence in the community. The transition included enhancements in services, branding, and community outreach, reinforcing its status as a central hub for ice sports in the Lansing area.

Facility Features

The Lansing Ice Complex offers two full-size NHL rinks, which are carefully maintained for high-quality ice conditions suitable for both recreational and competitive use. The facility accommodates a wide range of users, from beginners and casual skaters to competitive hockey players and figure skaters. Supporting businesses within the complex include Perani's Hockey World, a leading hockey equipment retailer, Impact Sports Performance, which focuses on athlete training and conditioning, and The Studio, a dedicated space for various fitness and athletic training programs.

The Ice Cube handles over 850,000 visitors annually, a testament to its popularity and importance in the region’s sports landscape. The facility is open throughout the year, offering flexible scheduling for public skating sessions, private rentals, lessons, leagues, and tournaments.

Programs and Services

The Lansing Ice Complex offers a broad spectrum of programs designed to cater to people of all ages and skill levels:

Learn to Skate Programs: These classes are designed to introduce newcomers to skating fundamentals. Programs like Snowplow Sam for young children, Basic Skills for beginner skaters, and Hockey 1 for those interested in learning hockey fundamentals are all offered. These classes emphasize safety, skill development, and confidence-building on the ice.

Youth Hockey Leagues and Travel Teams: The Lansing Hockey Club, based at the facility, organizes house leagues and travel teams across multiple age groups ranging from the youngest (Mites) to older youth divisions (Midgets). The Spartans Travel Hockey program is available for players seeking higher-level, Tier II competition, allowing youth athletes to compete regionally and develop advanced skills.

Figure Skating Programs: The Lansing Skating Club operates out of the Ice Cube and offers freestyle skating sessions, private lessons, and group classes. The club organizes competitions and exhibitions, including the annual Howard E. Van Camp Invitational, which is a USA Figure Skating sanctioned event drawing skaters from across the region. The figure skating programs support athletes from beginners to advanced levels.

Public Skating Sessions: For recreational skaters, the complex offers multiple open skate times weekly. These sessions provide opportunities for families, individuals, and groups to enjoy skating in a social and relaxed environment.

Special Events, Camps, and Clinics: Throughout the year, the Ice Cube hosts hockey camps such as the Great Lakes Hockey Camp, which provides intensive training sessions led by professional coaches. Additionally, the complex organizes seasonal camps and clinics for skating and hockey skills enhancement.

Community Impact and Engagement

The Lansing Ice Complex plays a crucial role in promoting physical fitness, sportsmanship, and community interaction in East Lansing and the surrounding areas. It serves as a community gathering space for ice sports enthusiasts and families, fostering a culture of healthy activity and teamwork. Its programs are inclusive, designed to welcome newcomers while also providing competitive opportunities for serious athletes.

The facility often collaborates with local schools, organizations, and sports clubs to support youth development and increase access to ice sports. Its public skating options and learn-to-skate classes ensure that skating remains an accessible and enjoyable activity for people from diverse backgrounds.

Visitor Information and Accessibility

The Ice Cube is strategically located with easy access from East Lansing and the greater Lansing metropolitan area. It is equipped with ample parking, locker rooms, skate rental services, and a pro shop to meet visitors' needs. The facility also offers rental options for private events, parties, and tournaments, making it a versatile venue for both public and private gatherings.

Operating hours vary depending on programming but generally include weekday, evening, and weekend availability to accommodate different schedules. The management prioritizes maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for all guests.

In summary, the Lansing Ice Complex (Biggby Coffee Ice Cube East Lansing) is a state-of-the-art ice sports facility with a comprehensive range of services that cater to skaters, hockey players, and figure skaters of all ages and abilities. Its dual NHL-sized rinks, extensive programming, community engagement, and professional management make it a vital institution within the East Lansing and broader Michigan ice sports community.