Cedar Rapids Ice Arena | Cedar Rapids

The Cedar Rapids Ice Arena is a multi-purpose sports and entertainment venue located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, USA.

It serves as the primary facility for ice hockey and figure skating in the region.

Visual Characteristics

The arena is a large, rectangular structure with a predominantly grey exterior, constructed from pre-cast concrete panels. It features a sloped roofline and a series of large, rectangular windows on its upper levels. The main entrance is marked by a prominent canopy and signage.

Location & Access Logistics

The Cedar Rapids Ice Arena is situated at 1100 3rd Street SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401. It is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) south of the downtown Cedar Rapids core. Access is via 3rd Street SE, which connects to major thoroughfares like 1st Avenue SE and 16th Avenue SW. Ample on-site parking is available in designated lots surrounding the facility. Public transport options include the Cedar Rapids Transit bus system; Route 3 (Downtown-Westdale) stops within a 0.2-mile (0.3 km) walk of the arena.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Cedar Rapids Ice Arena was completed in 2000. The facility was designed by the architectural firm OPN Architects, Inc. Its original purpose was to provide a modern, dedicated space for ice sports, replacing older, less equipped facilities in the city.

Key Highlights & Activities

The arena hosts professional and amateur ice hockey games, figure skating competitions, and public ice skating sessions. It is also utilized for concerts, trade shows, and other community events. Specific activities include attending hockey matches, participating in open skate sessions, and watching figure skating performances.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available throughout the concourse. Limited shaded areas are present in the parking lots. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the arena. Food and beverage concessions are located within the main concourse.

Best Time to Visit

For ice skating, public sessions are typically scheduled on weekends and select weekdays; check the arena's official schedule for specific times. For hockey games, the season generally runs from September through March. Lighting is consistent indoors, making time of day less critical for viewing events.

Facts & Legends

The arena's ice surface is maintained at a consistent temperature of 22 degrees Fahrenheit (-5.5 degrees Celsius) to ensure optimal ice conditions for skating and hockey. A unique operational detail is the use of a Zamboni ice resurfacer, which is a specialized vehicle for maintaining the ice surface.

Nearby Landmarks

• U.S. Cellular Center (0.8km North)
• Cedar Rapids Museum of Art (1.2km North)
• Paramount Theatre (1.3km North)
• Veterans Memorial Coliseum (1.5km North)
• McGrath Amphitheatre (1.8km North)