ELLENTON – As you drive down Interstate 75, there is a big giant igloo dome just north of the Ellenton Outlet Mall. It’s Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex.
For over a decade, it has been a serious place for locals and even Olympians to train.
There are two rinks at Ellenton, one for hockey and the other for open skate and figure skating. Inside is a health club, snack bar and well-stocked pro shop. A third rink is used for indoor soccer.
It’s a great place for visitors as it is not that tourist oriented, and more a locals place. But because it is close to the beaches and interstate, a great option for a day in Florida when its rainy or extremely hot, or when you just want to do something different. For those who are here seasonally, they have adult hockey leagues, lessons and figure skating clubs. This means that it has a heavy dose of Canadians and guys from the upper Midwest bringing their kids for games.
The day we were there, everyone was watching the U.S. National Championships and Ellenton’s own Danny O’Shea and Tara Kayne. They won.
Prices for Ellenton are reasonable; regular admission for a skate is $10 for adults; skate rental is $5. Find out more at ellentonice.com
Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex
5309 29th Street East
Ellenton, Florida 34222
