On a hot summer day, I had the idea to escape the heat by visiting the NTPRD Chiller in downtown Springfield, Ohio.  A complex that is a part of the City’s Parks and Recreation’s program, the ice rink also has a partnership with the Chiller Organization, associated with Columbus’ professional hockey team, the Blue Jackets.

I had the opportunity to talk with Chris, who explained that the rink sustains temperatures between 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit so that they can maintain an ice thickness of 1 ½ inches. I While the rink is regulation National Hockey League (NHL) size, it is smaller than an Olympic rink.

The Chiller provides several children’s programs for children starting at the age of two years old and in addition, they host adult leagues as well.

Founded in 1993, the NTPRD Chiller is Springfield’s first indoor ice skating arena.  The location is the perfect place to host birthday parties by renting out the mezzanine when the space is available.   Wittenberg University and Wright State University’s hockey teams use the rink for practice, college games while high school programs are beginning to offer team sports here as well.  Last year the organization hosted a cardboard bobsled competition where there were lose to fifty participants.

There are several opportunities for visitors to register for freestyle and public skate sessions when space is available.  All visitors must register online and until further notice, visitors are required to wear masks due to COVID.

Skate rental are available for a small fee with a selection of over 800 pairs of skates.  Sizes start at children’s 6 and they are also available for purchase through stores such as MC Sports, Dunhams and Dick’s Sporting Goods.

NTPRD offers hot dogs and Mother Stewart’s root beer at their refreshment stand for that much needed break off of the ice.  So if you are looking for a great way to cool down in the summer, or sharpen your skating skills year around, check out NTPRD in Springfield, Ohio.  Their online calendar provides a schedule for skating times, lessons and hockey games to cheer on your favorite teams.

Have you skated at the NTPRD Chiller?  How was your experience?  I would love to hear about your time spent at Springfield’s first ice rink if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Thank you for reading about my fun visit to The Chiller and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

NTPRD Chiller
301 West Main Street
Springfield, Ohio 45504
Telephone:  937 323 RINK (7465)

• Admission Fee:  Admission $5 and Skate Rental $2; kids 5 and under are free.
• Hours:  Check out the Freestyle hours on their website
• Amenities:  Skate rental, snack bar, hockey leagues and ice skating classes
• Tips for Your Visit:  Book your reservations online.  Wear a sweater or jacket if you plan on spending more time at the rink.

Where to Stay:

Courtyard Marriott Springfield
100 S. Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH  45502
Telephone:  937 322 3600

Where to Eat:

Heart of Country Gift Shoppe and Teaberries Cafe
1600 E. Leffel Lane
Springfield, OH  45505
Telephone:  937 325 3030

I could spend hours strolling the Heart of Country Shoppe, but when I visit, I can’t wait to have lunch at Teaberries.   I always start my lunch with a piece of yummy, moist orange bread.  Known for their wide varieties of chicken salad sandwiches, I always revert to the House Favorite, the Midwest Delight, served on a butter croissant.   If you have room, try their homemade carrot cake or peanut butter pie.

More favorite Springfield eateries:

• Schuler’s Donuts:   Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
• Simon Kenton Inn:  This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue.  With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
• Guerra’s Krazy Tacos:  One of my favorite places to eat in Springfield, Guerra’s is known for their unique gourmet tacos.
• Salato Deli:  I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
• Le Torte Dolci Bakery;  Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
• Mike & Rosie’s Deli:  This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

Where to Drink: 

• Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company: Springfield’s only brewery, Mother Stewart’s showcases nine craft beers produced onsite.

What to Read:

• The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
• Springfield, Ohio:  A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
• Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
• Still Standing:  A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
• Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:  

• Hartman Rock Garden
• Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
• Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
• Heritage Center of Clark County
• Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
• Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
• Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio