Eight weeks ago, a 10-year-old clung to the rail to stay upright. Now he glides confidently across the ice at Chaparral Ice without looking down.
In the locker rooms, an adult league is gearing up for a game. In the pro shop, a skate technician heat-molds a brand-new pair of skates. In the stands, a grandmother is smiling just as widely as the kids, waiting for her own skating class to start.
In Austin, a city famous for technology, live music and summer heat, Chaparral Ice remains a major community anchor, having hosted generations of families excited to experience the thrill of ice skating.
Ice: a constant as a community changed
Founded in 1996 to meet Austin’s skating needs, Chaparral Ice first operated at a location on North IH-35, then later expanded to the old AustinIce facility in Northcross Mall. Even as the Central Austin mall declined, the rink remained the area’s heartbeat, thriving as the Anderson Lane/Burnet Road commercial community reinvented itself for the 21st Century.
In 2008, it expanded into the mall’s former Bealls department store space, upgrading to a full NHL-size rink. Ryan Raya purchased the rink in 2017, added Owner Tamir Nitzan, renovated it and refocused on growing hockey and skating—while keeping the trusted name.
Today, Chaparral Ice is Austin’s only full-time, year-round ice facility and operates the city’s only full-service hockey pro shop.
From first steps to the podium
At Chaparral Ice, anyone can find their place on the ice—from kids taking their first laps to national competitors refining their edge work.
“We aim to be a full-service community rink,” General Manager Richard McGovern said. “We want you to come here, forget about your problems—just escape life for a little bit and have fun.”
That philosophy appears in offerings for all levels, including:
- Public skating
- Learn to Skate classes
- Figure skating
- Learn to Play Hockey program
- Youth and adult hockey leagues
- Parties and events
Chaparral Ice hosts parties and events, offering group rates for 10 or more, birthday packages, corporate events and private rentals, making it easy for groups to celebrate, play and enjoy the rink.
All ages and skill levels are welcome to lace up and hit the ice, whether they’re aiming for medals or just want to have fun.
Growing skills and confidence
For skaters ready to advance, Chaparral Ice provides coaching and guidance to progress quickly. Students in Learn to Skate or Learn to Play Hockey programs can attend public skate sessions for just $6—less than half the usual rate—to practice and build confidence on the ice.
The rink offers private lessons, freestyle sessions for advanced figure skaters and stick-and-puck sessions for focused hockey practice.
Youth hockey players can join Hockey Town, an eight-week spring program from March 21 to May 15 that teaches skaters to be hockey players.
“We give skaters every opportunity to grow, because the more time they spend on the ice, the faster they improve,” McGovern said.
Why go to Chaparral Ice?
Chaparral Ice isn’t just a place for skating or hockey; it’s a destination for fun, health and community. Here’s what makes it special:
- Explore something new: a fun, rewarding sport in a safe, supportive environment
- Low-impact workout: gentle on joints, while still moving the full body
- Fun for the whole family: all ages and skill levels laughing and cheering together
- Open all year: anytime fun, escape the heat whenever you like
- Experience a range of emotions: the thrill of the glide with cool wind in your face; the pride of overcoming fear as your confidence builds with every stroke; joy as you step off the ice after a magical day in Austin’s original winter wonderland
Chaparral Ice gives everyone a reason to step on the ice: to grow, play, laugh and enjoy the ride.
Spills? Sometimes. Chills? Always. Thrills? Guaranteed.
Get on the ice
Ready to try? Chaparral Ice is open year-round at 2525 W. Anderson Ln., Austin, and no reservation is needed for public skate sessions—just show up, lace up and go.
Follow Chaparral Ice on Facebook and Instagram for the latest events, special programs, and holiday happenings, or check the calendar page online for details.
Don’t miss the USA Hockey “Try Hockey for Free” day on March 7, perfect for beginners, families and anyone looking to explore hockey for the first time. Register for the event at www.tryhockeyforfree.com.
To learn more about Chaparral Ice, visit the website.
The story above was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
