Molly Mita

"Ice skating is one of the most relaxing forms of exercise for me." Ron, a 65 year old who still enjoys skating, remarked. Mount Pleasant Ice Arena is located on Hillen Road in Baltimore. Filled with people of all ages, the rink is open to the public so that everyone can enjoy the ice. "Coming to the rink to skate puts me in the Christmas spirit every December." says Joanna of Baltimore who comes to the rink each winter. People have many reasons for coming to skate whether it's for exercise, pleasure, or just to unwind.

Mount Pleasant is also available for parties. If you are celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or any occasion, Mount Pleasant can be rented out for your private party.  An employee at the arena informed, "We have all kinds of parties here and we supply pizza and snacks of your choice." There is also a snack bar located in the lobby with everything from hot dogs, to pretzels, to pizza, and a variety of soft drinks.

You do not have to be an expert to skate at the arena. As Kristen a Loyola junior stated, "I am in no way an expert skater, small children were much better than I was but I felt comfortable." There are always ice guards skating on the rink incase you fall or need any assistance. There is always time to sit out and the arena provides stands by the glass so people can watch.

"I do not own skates so I come to Mount Pleasant because I can rent them there and I even have a preference of which kind I want to use," said Lisa of White Marsh. The rink provides skates for just six dollars all day. They have many sizes and the skates vary from classic style to ice hockey style. "I have wide feet so I chose the hockey style," giggled Kristen, the Loyola junior.

The arena plays a modern selection of music, but a crowd of all ages seemed to enjoy the music while they skated. Many people were dancing to the music on the ice. "I was surprised to hear so many of my favorite songs today, the selection was great!" remarked Casey a Loyola student.

Mount Pleasant is open by noon daily, and at ten in the morning on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The weekends are available for night skating up until 10:30 pm.