Ice Palace Reverie
The Riverfront Park Ice Palace is open daily. The Spokesman-Review.
Strolling through Riverfront Park during the winter can be a magical experience-- especially at night. Once the sun has set, the park glitters like a diamond in its lush setting along the Spokane River. The sparkle of lighted trees and the golden sheen of the carousel building casts a soft glow on the heart of the city.
On a recent weekend, I walked though the park with my family on our way to see a movie at the IMAX. As we drew closer to the theater, my son commented on the crowds. "Must be a popular movie," he said. "Good thing we came early."
But it wasn't "A Christmas Carol," folks were flocking to see. When we neared the Pavilion area, we quickly discovered what had drawn such crowds-- the Riverfront Park Ice Palace.
While the rest of the family hurried to get movie tickets, I stood transfixed by the tableau before me.
It seemed like hundreds of skaters swarmed across the ice. Beaming couples swayed hand-in-hand, their skates showering icy fragments in their wake. Rosy-cheeked children laughed and jostled each other.
Some folks slid by with accomplished flair. Others wobbled precariously, and stayed close to the wall. One little guy scooted on his determinedly on his bottom, ignoring the disgusted entreaties of what appeared to be his older brother.
Meanwhile, in the bleachers, warmly-dressed observers clutched steaming cups of coffee or cocoa.
The size of the crowd amazed me. But it didn't surprise Debby Dodson, assistant manager of Riverfront Park. "We've seen a tremendous increase in attendance this year," she said. And she suspects the upcoming U.S. National Skating Championships might have something to do with the renewed interest. Dodson said, "We experienced a similar peak in 2007."
In addition, Dodson said they've kept prices low, making a trip to the Ice Palace an affordable treat for the entire family, as well as offering a romantic date for couples on a budget. "It's a great value," she said. Special deals like Two Dollar Tuesdays (admission just $2) entice even the most thrifty thrill-seekers.
"We're having a great season," said Dodson. "It shows in the long-term effects of everything from our Learn to Skate lessons to our hockey teams." She believes the Ice Palace had a record-breaking holiday season.
And no wonder. In addition to being economical, ice skating is also one of the most accessible winter sports. Riverfront Park is a quick and easy drive from just about any area in the city. There's no need to invest in any expensive gear. The Ice Palace has 750 pairs of skates available to rent.
I was tempted, as I watched the throngs move across the ice. Tempted to lace up a pair of skates and join the novices by the wall.
You see, I've never skated. I have some talents, but motor-coordination isn't one of them. Indeed, some days just walking down the sidewalk is a challenge. But the shushing sounds of blades on ice captivated me. A lovely gray-haired lady smiled and beckoned me as she swept by. Maybe, I should try it, I thought.
I pictured myself sailing across the rink, an elegant ballerina in jeans and a long wool coat. I smiled at the thought.
"C'mon Mom!" My son's shout broke my reverie. "You're gonna miss the previews." He tugged me away from my vantage point. Looking back at the skaters, I stumbled as we walked down the incline toward the theater.
Perhaps some are born to skate while others are meant to only dream about it.
Cindy Hval is a freelance columnist for The Spokesman-Review. She writes for The Spokesman-Review Voices neighborhood sections in Spokane County. Her stories appear weekly, and her Front Porch column appears twice a month in the Thursday Voice. Contact her at dchval@juno.com. Previous columns are available online at spokesman.com/ columnists.
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