The new outdoor ice rink and warming house will be so much more than a place to skate — it will be a vibrant, multi–generational community space designed with safety, accessibility, and connection at its heart. Nestled on a property away from busy traffic lanes and the bustle of downtown Sister Bay, this facility will offer a peaceful, secure environment where families can relax, kids can play freely, and people of all ages can come gather year–round.
One of the most important features of this project is its thoughtful location. Because the rink and warming house are in a quieter, more natural setting — away from the dangers of heavy vehicle traffic — parents and grandparents can feel at ease knowing that children have room to explore and play safely. Whether it’s a game of tag in the snowbanks or riding scooters on the paved paths in the summer, kids will have the freedom to move about in an environment that supports healthy, active, and joyful play.
The rink will be connected to the warming house and the parking lot by gently graded, well–lit, and regularly cleared walking paths, making the facility safe and accessible even during the slippery winter months. These pathways will ensure that older adults — especially grandparents who might be less steady on their feet — can safely enjoy everything the facility has to offer. For many, winter becomes a season of staying indoors, simply because there are so few safe and accessible places to go. This project changes that.
The warming house will be warm and inviting, with large windows offering a full view of the ice rink. Grandparents and others who prefer to stay off the ice will still be able to be part of the moment — watching loved ones skate, chatting with neighbors, or simply enjoying a cup of hot cocoa in a lively, joyful atmosphere. It’s a space that fosters togetherness and celebrates the simple pleasure of being in community.
In the summer, the ice rink surface will transform into pickleball courts and play space for children. The same safe, quiet surroundings that make it ideal in winter will make it a haven for families in the warmer months too. Kids can run, play, and be themselves while adults engage in recreation or relax in the company of friends — all without the worries that come with high–traffic areas.
By supporting this project, you’re helping us build a space that nurtures connection, supports healthy activity, and welcomes everyone in every season. Together, let’s create a place where all generations can come together — safely, joyfully, and year after year.