Ice rink now open at Block 59 in Naperville

Dining at Naperville’s Block 59 restaurant district can now include a festive ice skating stop.

An ice rink recently opened between the Cheesecake Factory and Yard House restaurants at Block 59, which is at the northeast corner of Route 59 and Aurora Avenue.

The 60-by-120-foot ice rink was created in partnership with Magic Ice USA, a national leader in seasonal rink design and operations, according to a news release. The rink will be open daily, and special themed events are scheduled for December and January.

“This rink is more than just ice — it’s about building traditions, creating joy and elevating the entertainment experience for the whole community,” said Brendon Malone, CEO of Magic Ice USA.

The outdoor venue, dubbed The Rink at Block 59, will host Skate with Santa sessions on Dec. 4, Dec. 14 and Dec. 21. A princess skate on Jan. 4 will give children a chance to dress up and meet their favorite princesses.

“The Rink at Block 59 brings a festive energy that will engage visitors, support our tenants and reinforce Block 50 as the heart of community life in Naperville,” said Rich Dippolito, vice president of national accounts/redevelopment at Brixmor Property Group, which developed the project.

Block 59 features a variety of restaurants, including The Cheesecake Factory, Shake Shack, Stan’s Donuts, Piccolo Bucco, First Watch and Velvet Taco. There are also recent additions such as Crisp & Green and Yard House.

In addition to bringing “beloved brands” to the area, Block 59 is using its outdoor space to plan events, such as the ice rink, said Monica Conners, president of the Naperville Development Partnership Convention and Visitors Bureau.

“Block 59 is transforming the northeast corner of Route 59 and Aurora Avenue into much more than just a new dining hot spot in Naperville. … It’s a true experience and destination,” Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli said in a written statement.

The Rink at Block 59 will be open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Starting Jan. 5, the hours will adjust to 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays.

Admission is $14 for adults, $12 for children, seniors, nurses, teachers and members of the military. Skate rental is available for $5.

For additional information or to make reservations for skate time or any special skate events, visit theblock59.com.