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Are there any skating rinks left in Charlotte? Roll out to these venues in the area.

Derby City Skates on Winnifred Street in South End has colorful roller skates in all sizes. Kate’s Skating Rink recently closed its Lowell location, but there are still plenty of places to skate in the Charlotte area.
Derby City Skates on Winnifred Street in South End has colorful roller skates in all sizes. Kate’s Skating Rink recently closed its Lowell location, but there are still plenty of places to skate in the Charlotte area. CharlotteFive

The recent closure of a beloved Charlotte-area skating rink has highlighted the declining number of options for roller skating in the community, but there are still some venues up and running.

The Lowell location of Kate’s Skating Rinks shut down in early March, but the company still has other rinks in the Charlotte metro area. And they’re not the only name in the business locally.

“Pop-up” skating rinks have even become a thing in recent years, bringing events around the region and available for rent for private parties.

Here’s what to know about skating rink options in and around Charlotte:

Frye’s Roller Rink

Where: 2800 Poplar Tent Road, Concord, NC 28027

Cost: $4 for rentals, $6-$10 for admission

What to know: This skating rink is located in Concord. The facility also offers skating lessons. On Friday and Saturday nights, the business notes, anyone under 18 years old “without their own skates must be accompanied by a parent at all times during their visit.”

Kate’s Skating Rinks

Where: 1151 Skating Rink Dr., Gastonia, NC 28054 and 14500 E. Independence Blvd., Indian Trail, NC 28079

Cost: Prices for admission and skate rental vary based on location and events

What to know: Although the Lowell location closed in March 2023, Kate’s still operates two rinks in Gastonia and Indian Trail. Locations also host field trips, birthday parties and other events. Kate’s also has pro shops that sell skates, wheels, and more.

Rollin’ Clt

Where: Pop-up locations vary

Cost: Prices vary by event

What to know: Launched in 2020, Rollin’ Clt has skating rinks available for rent for private events. The group also hosts skate parties and skating lessons at locations throughout the Charlotte area, with tickets for sale online. A “brick and mortar” location will open this fall, per the company’s website.

Screamin’ Wheels and Blades

Where: Pop-up locations vary

Cost: Prices vary by event

What to know: This pop-up skating rink company was launched during the COVID-19 pandemic. The “mobile rink” is available for rent for private events. To inquire about renting the rink, submit your information at popupandroll.com/contact.

Skateland of Kannapolis

Where: 311 Brookdale St., Kannapolis, NC 28083

Cost: $4-$8 for admission. Parties start at $275

What to know: Located in Kannapolis, Skateland has been open since 1974. The rink hosts birthday parties and is available for rent for private events. Anyone under 18 years old “without their own skates must be accompanied by a parent at all times during their visit.”

Mary Ramsey
The Charlotte Observer
Mary Ramsey is the local government accountability reporter for The Charlotte Observer. A native of the Carolinas, she studied journalism at the University of South Carolina and has also worked in Phoenix, Arizona and Louisville, Kentucky. Support my work with a digital subscription
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