The Rockford Park District is pleased to offer the opportunity to go ice skating or play hockey outdoors at the Eclipse Lagoon in Sinnissippi Gardens on the campus of Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd Street, Rockford.
When weather permits and conditions are safe, the community is welcome to enjoy open ice skating or open hockey at Eclipse Lagoon daily from 9 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The ice needs to be at least 4 to 5 inches thick for the Eclipse Lagoon to open. Rockford Park District staff will check the thickness of the ice daily, and signs alerting residents of the conditions will be posted on site.
Quick Facts about Lagoon Winter Activities:
Hockey is available at the north end of the lagoon only. Goals are provided and available on a first come, first served basis.
Heated restrooms are available at the outdoor pavilion.
Ice skating and hockey at the lagoon is FREE.
Public Ice Skating Rules
Skate at your own risk; no Rockford Park District supervision provided
Wear appropriate clothing for outdoor weather
Adults are responsible for the children under their care
Participants may not carry infants or children while skating
Skaters accept responsibility for knowing the range of their ability while on skates, and skating within the limits of that ability
Use of hockey sticks and pucks are only allowed on the north side of the lagoon
Foul language or inappropriate behavior may result in immediate removal from the facility
Do not leave valuables unattended; the Rockford Park District is not responsible for any lost or stolen articles
Report any inappropriate or illegal conduct to the Rockford Park District Park Police at 815-966-2900. In case of emergency call 9-1-1.
A waiver is also required to be signed before skaters will be allowed on the ice. Click below.
Ice Skate Rentals
Bring your own skates, or rent skates for $5 inside Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens during regular operating hours.
Tuesday - Friday: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm (last rental at 3:00 pm)
Saturday - Sunday: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm (last rental at 2:00 pm)
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for potential extended skate rental hours.
Indoor Skating
The Rockford Park District is your home for indoor skating year-round at Carlson Ice Arena or Riverview Ice House.
Eclipse Lagoon Bricks
The charming brick patio on the north side of the Eclipse Lagoon is a wonderful way to memorialize a loved one, celebrate an anniversary, honor your family name, or share a special memory. Whatever the reason, purchasing an engraved brick is an easy way to support the Rockford Park District.
Lagoon History
The Eclipse Lagoon is 500 feet long and has been a landmark in the community since the 1920s. Over the years, the lagoon has remained a popular spot for residents to gather. In the summer, many stroll along the lagoon on the way to the Rock River Recreation Path or the Sinnissippi Park rose garden. In the winter, the lagoon often serves as an outdoor skating rink.
Eclipse Lagoon Memorial Bricks are available for purchase through the Rockford Park District Foundation.
Lagoon Restoration Project
The restoration of the lagoon started as part of the park district's 100th anniversary riverfront restoration program. In fall 2011, the Rockford Park District Foundation accepted a donation from William Charles, Ltd., an anonymous donor, and a major donation package from the Eclipse Foundation to cover the renovation costs. In summer 2012, the new lagoon was reopened and officially named Eclipse Lagoon.