Downtown on Ice

I've often thought the idea of a season pass would be a good idea. Although I see no idea to limit it to those who live downtown. I suspect the idea might not be entertained because on weekends and as the holidays approach, they almost always have too many customers. Maybe the season pass could be good for off-peak hours (say Monday - Thursday). Incidentally, there is (or was in years past) a ten-trip pass you could buy. I found this to be a good deal.

I'd also encourage you to contact the company which runs the rink. I remember a few years ago complaining about the very limited music selections and within a few days they'd followed up with me and actually changed their music.

I'd also say, this event is one of the best things about living downtown. I've been going since it first opened. When I was single and childless, I used to go 4-5 times a week for the excercise! I've always found the little scene it creates a lot of fun. Every year, they improve some detail about the set-up. Better vendors. Better layout of the rink. Chairs for people to sit. It is a great place to go with friends and family (bring kids) for some low-key holiday fun.

My only complaint about the rink is the staff can be not as friendly as I think they ought to be. Whatever. You can ignore them.

Ok, please clear this up for me, as I am new to this idea. Is it REAL ice? I can't imagine how they would do that and keep it frozen... I know because I have seen places with a fake ice you can skate on in the summer... but I'm originally from Minneapolis, and if I could go skating downtown on actual ice, it would make me feel totally like I am at home...

Yes, it is true. There is a technician who stays at the Biltmore to maintain the ice. (Those Santa Ana winds are brutal on the ice.) At least, there was years past. Nice guy, too.

One thing I have to say I really don't like about the ice rink downtown is the marketing. The banners promoting the event are awful. They look cheap, they are and they're hard to read. Yes, I understand Parks & Rec's strong point is not graphic design. And given this fact, why don't they get the marketing department of the L.A. Kings (who fund the rink) to take on this assignment? I'm sure the Kings could come up with something way better and fresh than these tired banners and graphical elements, which have been kicking around for years.