Forget ice skating: Try bumper cars on ice for unique holiday fun

Read on to find ice bumper car locations in Chicago

Photo bylokki61099/Depositphotos.com

Ice skating can be difficult, requires skill, and hurts when you fall. If you'd like some winter fun on ice that's a bit easier to navigate, give bumper cars a try.

As you glide effortlessly across the ice, you can either float lazily around, reminiscent of a lazy river or get a bit more active by engaging your friends in bumper car battles.

What's the history of ice bumper cars?

For years, the only way people could zip around the ice in bumper cars was in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Mike Farny invented them when he founded his business, IBC International. He has since expanded his business, and now, winter bumper cars can be found across the country, including in Chicagoland.

How is riding in an ice bumper car different from the usual bumper car experience?

The ice bumper car experience is unique. It's a smoother ride than the traditional bumper car.

According to IBC International, "Unlike the more traditional bumper car, the ice bumper car experience is very fluid because the slippery surface allows for the cars to bump and slide."

Want to try it for yourself? Here are three locations you can find ice bumper cars in Chicago.

Winterland at Gallagher Way inside Wrigley Field

Baseball is on a break as a winter wonderland takes over Wrigley Field. Head inside the iconic baseball stadium for Winterland. The Gallagher Ice Rink is located inside the ballpark where you can either ice skate or partake in the bumper cars.

Prices include:

• Rink access (including skate rentals) is $20
• Rink access only is $12
• Ice bumper cars are $16

Be sure to check out other holiday activities like winter tubing and festive games. Get all the info here.

Jack Frost Winterfest at Goose Island

Jack Frost Winterfest located at 1265 West LeMoyne in Chicago offers bumper cars.

According to the website, "Their controls are a little like playing a video game and you can choose to zoom around, smash into other cars in true bumper form, or simply sit and spin in circles!"

You can get tickets to this pop-up event, which includes winter bumper cars and plenty of other activities, at welcometojacks.com.

Glenview Community Ice Center

Winter bumper cars can be found in the suburbs as well. Rides will be available during Friday night public skates and holiday breaks. You can book tickets online on the Glenview Parks website.

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