Free skating, as well as classes

PEORIA

Desert Schools Coyotes Center. Metro Phoenix’s biggest facility chills with an Olympic-size sheet of ice plus a rink where the NHL’s Phoenix Coyotes practice. Take skating or hockey classes, or watch from the pizza bar. $7.50. 15829 N. 83rd Ave.; 623/334-1200.

PHOENIX

Arcadia Ice Arena. This much-beloved rink has been a neighborhood fixture since the 1960s. Besides a small snack bar and video games, there’s not much to distract you. Join weekly skating lessons or pickup hockey games. $4.50. 3853 E. Thomas Rd.; 602/957-9966.

SCOTTSDALE

Alltel Ice Den. A restaurant, bar, and two rinks add lavish ambience, but ice basics are here too. Look for pickup hockey games and skating programs, plus teen nights (Fridays) and family nights (Saturdays). From $7. 9375 E. Bell Rd.; 480/473-5811.

TEMPE

Oceanside Ice Arena. This rink’s main emphasis is hockey, with beginner classes for adults or kids, but there are also skating times. Drop in on open hockey sessions or bundle up to watch various local leagues play. $4.50. 1520 N. McClintock Dr.; 480/941-0944.

TUCSON

Gateway Ice Center. Twin rinks give hockey players and figure skaters lots of ice for lessons. The center offers family nights plus date-friendly lighting and mood music weekend nights. From $5. 7333 E. Rosewood St.; 520/290-8800.

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