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Top 24 Hotels Near Empire Roller Rink
1305 Business Loop 70 East Columbia, MO 65201
Tru by Hilton Columbia South
Reaching Empire Roller Rink from Tru by Hilton Columbia South is a simple drive, a feature that allows guests to ease into their day's schedule.
Tru by Hilton is a brand that delivers reliability and spirited hospitality, evident from the moment you are greeted at the front desk. Guests enjoying the Hive lobby encounter colorful seating, casual games, and bright accents, producing first impressions of energy. The breakfast bar with cereals, hot items, and toppings ensures travelers start mornings with reliable variety and consistent routines.
Amenities like Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, fitness rooms, and Eat & Sip markets give families dependable support during busy trips.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Columbia
For a trip to Columbia, TownePlace Suites by Marriott Columbia's location a short drive from Empire Roller Rink provides a convenient and time-saving travel option.
At TownePlace Suites, the In a Pinch® Market beside reception provides quick snacks and toiletries, easing arrivals with thoughtful convenience. Suites include organized storage systems, media outlets, and kitchen islands, empowering guests to structure their stay on their terms. Breakfast room includes cold-prep stations and juice dispensers, giving guests fast, fresh options to fuel early starts.
Wi-Fi, meeting space, and valet dry cleaning deliver connectivity, collaboration spaces, and garment care in perfect guest balance.
Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Missouri
Reaching Empire Roller Rink from Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Missouri is a quick drive, a quality that weaves simplicity into the guest's daily routine.
Courtyard ensures orientation clarity with signage, concierge counters, and visible reception desks, making arrivals simple and quick. Every suite offers rainfall showers, plush robes, and premium amenities, ensuring relaxation and consistency across visits. In the 24/7 Market, travelers access drinks, packaged meals, and snacks, practical offerings that maintain routines across stays.
Guests benefit from valet parking, meeting facilities, indoor pools, and Starbucks® coffee, amenities that balance comfort daily.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Columbia Univ Area-Hwy 63 by IHG
The journey from Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Columbia Univ Area-Hwy 63 by IHG to Empire Roller Rink is an uncomplicated drive, a benefit that contributes to a cohesive and convenient visit.
Statement lighting fixtures and clean design at Holiday Inn Express create recognizable arrival cues that reinforce brand identity. Suites come with sofa seating, multiple televisions, and work areas, giving families flexible options for relaxation and productivity. Breakfast spaces including hot selections, pastries, and cereals help families achieve day-start clarity during busy travel mornings.
Free breakfast, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi pair with indoor pools and meeting rooms, covering both leisure and professional goals.
Holiday Inn Columbia East by IHG
At Holiday Inn Columbia East by IHG, Empire Roller Rink is within easy reach, a core element that connects the hotel to the area's highlights.
Lobby seating at Holiday Inn & Suites includes lounge chairs and communal tables, giving groups or solo travelers areas to regroup. Guest rooms provide flat-screen HDTVs, bedside outlets, and ergonomic chairs, balancing entertainment ease with everyday convenience. Breakfast dining areas with buffets, cereals, and coffee machines keep mornings predictable, giving travelers clarity to start the day.
Pet-friendly policies, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi connect with laundry and parking, offering clarity for families on the road.
Super 8 by Wyndham Columbia East
Empire Roller Rink is an uncomplicated drive from Super 8 by Wyndham Columbia East, a layout that ensures the pre-event journey is always a speedy one.
Super 8 provides complimentary coffee and tea service, signaling care and convenience that support guests throughout their stay. Guest rooms present branded bath amenities, showers, and towels, refreshing daily routines with clarity and dependable comfort. Breakfast rooms serving cereals, coffee, and hot items deliver day-start clarity, making mornings straightforward for all travelers.
Business centers, Wi-Fi, and free breakfast pair with laundry and parking, ensuring clarity and balance for every traveler daily.
Wingate by Wyndham - Columbia
For guests in Columbia, Wingate by Wyndham - Columbia keeps Empire Roller Rink an easy drive, a location that supports a relaxed and easy schedule.
Complimentary tea and coffee service at Wingate by Wyndham signals attention to detail, easing arrivals with refreshing touches. Guest rooms include coffee makers, microwaves, and mini-fridges, simplifying routines and supporting consistency across property stays. Pools offering family seating, loungers, and towel service allow leisure time to blend easily with relaxation during any trip.
Business centers, Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast pair with parking and vending, helping guests balance productivity and rest.
Birch Hill Suites Columbia
Within Columbia, Birch Hill Suites Columbia keeps Empire Roller Rink an easy drive, a detail that allows the hotel to serve as a convenient hub.
Guests at Birch Hill Suites Columbia may encounter a simple desk, quick parking options, and vending access arranged for reliable budget arrivals. Guest rooms often feature tasteful interiors, plush bedding, and Wi-Fi, creating a reliable foundation for comfortable overnight stays. Shared spaces may present coin-operated laundries, vending machines, and modest lobbies that ensure practical routines for guests.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, vending access, guest laundry, and continental breakfast, reinforcing functional ease in budget settings.
Quality Inn & Suites Columbia I-70
When visiting Empire Roller Rink in Columbia, the drive from Quality Inn & Suites Columbia I-70 is a simple drive, allowing for a quick return to the hotel.
Quality Inn entry layouts usually include bench seating and luggage racks so early arrivals can stage bags and explore unencumbered. Standard rooms include a secure laptop-size safe and discreet storage niches so valuables remain tucked away while guests explore locally. Business support desks handle parcel acceptance, printing, and small supplies, simplifying event logistics and last-minute materials on site.
Family-focused amenities—laundry, mini-fridges, and pools—compress daily needs so itineraries stay compact and predictable for caregivers.
Staybridge Suites Columbia by IHG
For travelers who appreciate a direct route, Staybridge Suites Columbia by IHG is a simple cross-town drive from Empire Roller Rink, making for a low-stress trip.
In many lobbies, Staybridge Suites frames a fireplace zone with outlets and tables, creating a calm anchor as plans come together. Every suite positions USB and standard outlets at desk and bedside, reducing adapter hunts and keeping multiple devices powered overnight. Pantry markets stock meal kits, snacks, and travel items for purchase 24/7, reducing off-site trips, with nearby microwaves.
Market coolers, packaged meals, and utensils join with Wi-Fi and microwaves, keeping budgets steady and timing flexible anytime.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Columbia, MO
Upon arrival at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Columbia, MO, Empire Roller Rink is a direct run, simplifying your visit.
Upon arrival, Radisson positions communal tables and outlet-rich tall counters near check-in so you can charge devices and regroup quickly. Guest rooms include plush bedding, blackout drapes, a movable work desk, and bedside outlets to support focused work and restful sleep. Meeting rooms supply AV hookups, flexible seating, and modular tables, supporting small trainings, brief gatherings, and efficient group planning.
Between on-site dining, free internet, fitness access, pool seating, meetings, and laundry, travelers find both refreshment and practical support.
Residence Inn by Marriott Columbia
The benefit of a simple drive to Empire Roller Rink renders Residence Inn by Marriott Columbia into a starting point for a day of easy transitions.
Residence Inn receptions with open layouts and curated design elements offer orientation clarity that helps guests settle with ease. All suites provide coffee makers, microwaves, and dining tables, letting guests enjoy quick meals with the comfort of in-room convenience. Business areas with computer terminals, copy machines, and Wi-Fi provide essential tools that help travelers manage tasks effectively.
Meeting spaces, complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi connectivity, fitness areas, and indoor pools create balance between productivity and rest.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Columbia
Empire Roller Rink is within easy reach of Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Columbia, a setup that offers a simple way to get there before the stay.
Upon entry, Fairfield Inn emphasizes a compact lobby core—reception, market, seating—so first choices are direct and the arrival flow is short. Suites feature flat-screen TVs, plush bedding, and sofa seating, offering comfort and entertainment to balance leisure and daily rest routines. Lobby areas highlight communal tables, modern seating, and bright décor, helping families and colleagues regroup comfortably before activities.
Amenities such as indoor pool access, business centers, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi combine to maintain dependable balance for guests.
Ramada by Wyndham Columbia
Empire Roller Rink is an uncomplicated drive of Ramada by Wyndham Columbia, a detail that allows for a smooth and integrated daily plan.
Lobby bars at Ramada deliver cocktails, wine, and small plates, creating hubs for social connection or relaxation after check-in. Each guest room contains plush bedding, blackout shades, and climate systems, making restful nights reliable for all travelers. Pools designed with loungers, umbrellas, and towel racks create leisure spaces where travelers can relax or connect socially.
Business lounges, Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast join with parking and laundry, delivering clarity for professional routines.
Hampton Inn Columbia
From Hampton Inn Columbia, Empire Roller Rink is an easy drive, offering a straightforward route for getting to your destination.
Weekday On the Run breakfast bags at Hampton Inn add grab-and-go convenience, simplifying mornings for travelers with early departures. Each suite includes sofa beds, televisions, and lounge tables, creating comfortable zones where families can relax or dine together. Fitness centers with treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights ensure travelers maintain routines, supporting energy balance throughout stays.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, business centers, outdoor pools, and laundry service create balance for both work and leisure stays.
Hampton Inn & Suites Columbia at University
When visiting Empire Roller Rink in Columbia, the drive from Hampton Inn & Suites Columbia at University is an easy drive, allowing for a quick return to the hotel.
Coffee and tea served in Hampton Inn lobbies 24/7 provide reliable courtesy, letting guests refresh easily at any point during their stay. Every guest room contains microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, providing guests convenient access to snacks and drinks anytime. Business centers with printers, computers, and Wi-Fi access create practical workspaces that keep productivity steady while on the road.
Valet parking, complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi connectivity, fitness areas, and meeting rooms deliver practical amenities for modern travel.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbia
When plans in Columbia are spread out, Empire Roller Rink is a direct run from SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbia, letting guests arrive relaxed and on schedule.
With fresh design elements and comfortable communal zones, SpringHill Suites creates a first impression that balances energy with relaxation. Guest rooms feature microwaves, compact fridges, and coffee machines, giving guests control of snacks and drinks to simplify extended travel needs. The indoor pool includes fresh towels, safe depth markers, and bright seating, ensuring a comfortable setting that supports relaxation and balance.
Guests access a 24/7 Market, fitness room, complimentary Wi-Fi, and breakfast service, ensuring practical needs are covered throughout visits.
Super 8 by Wyndham Columbia Clark Lane
This direct drive to Empire Roller Rink helps Super 8 by Wyndham Columbia Clark Lane guests get like they are part of the local Columbia scene without a major commute.
Lobby vending areas in Super 8 stock packaged meals, bottled drinks, and snacks, ensuring essentials are available at all hours. Each guest room contains plush beds, blackout drapes, and quiet climate systems, promoting restorative sleep after long travel days. Breakfast setups with cereals, coffee, and hot selections provide day-start clarity, ensuring routines stay simple for all travelers.
Free Wi-Fi, breakfast service, and vending setups combine with pools and parking, supporting clarity and convenience across stays.
Candlewood Suites Columbia East by IHG
From Candlewood Suites Columbia East by IHG, the simple trip to Empire Roller Rink removes travel complications for a hassle-free trip before the stay unfolds.
Candlewood Suites routes guests past the Cupboard’s coolers and shelves, keeping late snacks and forgotten toiletries close to seating. Each suite maintains independent climate control with blackout shades so sleep stays consistent and mornings begin clear and rested. Gazebo grill areas arrange gas grills, prep counters, and sturdy tables, making simple dinners practical while conversation continues outdoors.
Pet-friendly policies at participating hotels, Wi-Fi, and outdoor space combine with a market, keeping walks and returns uncomplicated.
Best Western Plus Columbia Inn
For a stay that depends on reliable car travel, Best Western Plus Columbia Inn offers an easy drive to Empire Roller Rink, making it a solid foundation for your trip.
Best Western maintains sightlines from desk to elevators, helping newcomers track progress while documents are checked and keys are encoded. Every suite maintains a dining ledge or table beside seating, enabling quick meals or laptop time without crowding the sleeping area. The café counter may offer espresso drinks, teas, and packaged bites, supporting short pauses before evening events or early departures.
Between meeting rooms, Wi-Fi, and lobby bars or cafés where present, travelers balance coordination and short social pauses on site.
Stoney Creek Hotel Columbia
When your visit to Columbia is centered on Empire Roller Rink, Stoney Creek Hotel Columbia's location a direct run away allows for a seamless daily plan.
Stoney Creek Hotel Columbia typically offers efficient check-in, modest lobby chairs, and self-serve coffee that emphasize budget-style convenience. Accommodations may include rainfall showers, hardwood floors, and compact layouts, reinforcing both practicality and simple comfort. Shared spaces may highlight vending corners, breakfast rooms, and guest laundries that support the daily routines of traveling guests.
A stay often features Wi-Fi, coin-operated laundry, parking, and compact breakfast spaces, sustaining practical travel routines for guests.
Hilton Garden Inn Columbia
The journey from Hilton Garden Inn Columbia to Empire Roller Rink is a simple drive, a benefit that contributes to a well-rounded and convenient stay.
Hilton Garden Inn lobbies highlight modern design and open layouts, creating orientation clarity that helps travelers navigate easily. Suites come with microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffee makers, letting guests enjoy simple meals and drinks conveniently in-room. Meeting rooms with audiovisual support, flexible seating, and strong Wi-Fi give groups practical setups that support collaboration easily.
Complimentary breakfast, indoor pools, business lounges, Wi-Fi connectivity, and valet service simplify travel and support routines.
The Broadway Columbia - a DoubleTree by Hilton
When visiting Empire Roller Rink in Columbia, the drive from The Broadway Columbia - a DoubleTree by Hilton is an uncomplicated drive, allowing for a quick return to the hotel.
Lobby outlets paired with seating at DoubleTree enable quick device charging, making the wait for rooms more productive and stress-free. Guest rooms ensure climate control and blackout curtains, building restful atmospheres tailored to individual preferences. Business centers include copy machines and work nooks, enabling travelers to manage documents and tasks efficiently on-site.
Indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness floor, spa lounge, and hydration points foster restorative breaks, promoting balance and steady wellness.
voco The Tiger Hotel Columbia MO by IHG
Guests at voco The Tiger Hotel Columbia MO by IHG can appreciate Empire Roller Rink being within easy reach as a defining perk of their stay.
A gracious and enthusiastic greeting from the front desk team at a voco hotel makes every guest feel like a VIP from the start. The signature cozy bedding in every room provides a cloud-like sleep experience, helping guests to wake up rested and rejuvenated. The fitness center is open 24/7, allowing guests the flexibility to maintain their wellness routine according to their own schedule.
With a resort-style pool, a signature spa, a kids' program, and a VIP pet program, the hotel offers a complete luxury stay for all.
Book as a group & pay separately.
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Empire Roller Rink Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Empire Roller Rink in Columbia, Missouri, a hub for family fun, birthday parties, and general skating enjoyment. This guide is designed to help you and your group navigate the area, find convenient accommodations, and make the most of your visit, whether you're here for a specific event or a casual skate session. We'll cover everything from local attractions and dining options to practical tips for a smooth and enjoyable experience near the rink. Get ready to plan your perfect outing in Columbia.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Empire Roller Rink (Columbia, MO)
Empire Roller Rink is situated in Columbia, Missouri, a vibrant college town known for its lively atmosphere and accessible amenities. The rink is conveniently located just off Business Loop 70 East, a major artery that offers excellent connectivity throughout the city. Access to the rink is straightforward, with plenty of available parking directly on-site, making it easy for teams and families to load and unload equipment and gear. For those flying into the area, Columbia Regional Airport (COU) is approximately a 15-20 minute drive away, depending on traffic. Driving to the rink is generally smooth, though some congestion can occur during peak commute times or major university events. Public transportation options are available but may require transfers; rideshare services are a reliable alternative for getting to and from the rink without personal vehicle concerns. Planning your arrival a bit before your scheduled activity is always a good strategy to account for parking and entry.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Empire Roller Rink
Columbia offers a range of hotel options catering to various budgets and needs, with many clustered around the Business Loop 70 corridor and near the University of Missouri campus. For visitors coming to Empire Roller Rink, accommodations within a 5-10 minute drive are plentiful, making it easy to get to and from skating sessions. Many families and groups opt for hotels along the Business Loop for their convenience and proximity to dining and shopping. While the rink itself is a destination, exploring the wider Columbia area is also popular, with the university district and downtown offering more entertainment and dining choices. Booking your stay in advance is highly recommended, especially during university home football games, graduation weekends, or major community events that draw significant crowds. Utilizing hotel booking sites with map views can help you pinpoint locations closest to the rink and other desired amenities.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Columbia Regional Airport (COU) is about a 15-20 minute drive away from the rink.
- Arrive 15 minutes early to secure parking and get skates on for your session.
- The nearby Grindstone Nature Area offers trails for a post-skate stroll.
- The Serenity Spa & Float Center provides a relaxing indoor option for a rainy day.
- Local diners like the Silver Spoon Diner are perfect for regrouping after skating.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
As your group arrives at Empire Roller Rink, aim to get to the parking lot about 15-20 minutes before your scheduled skate time. This buffer allows ample time to find a parking spot, gather your gear, and head inside to the entrance. Once inside, proceed directly to the counter to check in for your session or party. If you need to rent skates, this is when you'll pick those up. It’s a good idea to have everyone use the restroom before putting on skates to avoid interruptions once your skating time begins. Familiarize yourselves with the rink layout and find a comfortable spot to transition from street shoes to skates.
Mid-Day Regroup
During open skate sessions or between birthday party activities, it’s essential to have a plan for regrouping. Designate a central meeting point, perhaps near the skate rental counter or a specific seating area. If younger children are part of your group, ensure they know where to find supervisors or a designated adult. Take advantage of the rink's seating areas to take breaks, rehydrate, or enjoy snacks if allowed. This downtime is also a great opportunity for those who might be tired to watch the action from the sidelines before rejoining the fun on the skating floor.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As your skating session or party time nears its end, begin to wind down your activities. Give your group a 15-minute warning before the official end time so everyone can start heading towards the exit. This is the time to return any rented skates, gather belongings, and ensure no personal items are left behind. If you have a private party room, tidy up as instructed by the venue staff. Allow a few extra minutes for everyone to transition back into street shoes and collect their families or teammates. Exiting the rink promptly ensures a smooth departure for your group and prepares the venue for the next scheduled event.
Things to Do Near Empire Roller Rink
Walkable
Empire Roller Rink
Empire Roller Rink is Columbia's premier destination for roller skating, offering open skate sessions, private parties, and special events. It provides a fun and energetic atmosphere for all ages, perfect for birthday celebrations, school field trips, or just a lively afternoon out with friends. The rink is equipped with a spacious skating floor, a sound system for music, and often features special lighting for parties. Visitors can rent skates on-site and enjoy concessions for refreshments. It's a place where lasting memories are made through the simple joy of rolling and gliding.
1305 Business Loop 70 East · On siteBig 12 Billiards
Big 12 Billiards is a local spot where patrons can enjoy a game of pool in a relaxed environment. It offers a selection of billiards tables and is a great place to unwind and socialize after an active session at the rink. The establishment typically has a friendly atmosphere conducive to friendly competition and casual gatherings. Visitors looking for a low-key activity within easy reach of the roller rink will find this a convenient option for a change of pace.
1400 Business Loop 70 East · 0.4 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Campus Recreation Complex - University of Missouri
The Mizzou Campus Recreation Complex offers a wide array of recreational facilities for students and the public, often with day-pass options available. It features indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centers, gymnasiums, and sports courts, making it a versatile destination for active individuals or groups. For visitors seeking a different kind of athletic or leisure pursuit after skating, the complex provides numerous opportunities for swimming, working out, or participating in various sports. Check their schedule for public access hours and available amenities.
1000 Hitt Street · 3.0 miCosmic Jones
Cosmic Jones is a unique retail space in downtown Columbia that offers a curated selection of vintage clothing, accessories, and novelty items. It's a treasure trove for those who appreciate eclectic fashion and quirky finds. Browsing the racks at Cosmic Jones provides a fun and engaging diversion, allowing visitors to discover one-of-a-kind pieces. It’s an ideal stop for individuals or small groups looking to explore local boutiques and add a distinctive style element to their visit.
1100 E Walnut St · 2.7 miBeyond the Event: For those looking to extend their exploration beyond immediate attractions, Columbia offers more diverse experiences. The historic downtown area is home to numerous shops, galleries, and performance venues, while the University of Missouri campus provides architectural beauty and cultural sites. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby trails and parks, including the scenic Grindstone Nature Area, perfect for a peaceful walk or bike ride.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Empire Roller Rink
Inside & Adjacent
Empire Roller Rink Concessions
Within Empire Roller Rink, visitors will find a convenient concession stand offering a selection of snacks and beverages to fuel their skating adventures. This is the perfect spot to grab a quick bite or a refreshing drink without leaving the venue. Options typically include favorites like pizza, hot dogs, nachos, candy, and soda, catering to the energetic needs of skaters. It’s an essential amenity for keeping energy levels up during open skates or parties.
1305 Business Loop 70 East · On siteSubway
Subway offers a familiar and convenient option for quick, customizable sandwiches and salads, located just a stone's throw from Empire Roller Rink. It's an ideal choice for a fast and fresh meal before or after a skating session, catering to diverse tastes with a wide array of bread, meat, cheese, and vegetable options. Their efficient service makes it easy for individuals or groups to grab a bite without significant delay, ensuring more time for fun or rest.
1307 Business Loop 70 East · 0.1 miNearby Gathering Spots
Rally House Columbia
While primarily a sports fan store, Rally House often features a cafe or beverage service area within or adjacent to its location, making it a casual spot for a quick refreshment. This location is ideal for groups looking for a low-key place to grab a drink and perhaps a small snack while browsing team merchandise. It offers a relaxed atmosphere that can serve as a comfortable gathering point before or after activities in the wider Columbia area.
201 N 7th St · 2.9 miStarbucks
Starbucks provides a reliable option for coffee, teas, pastries, and light snacks, situated conveniently near the downtown area. It's a popular spot for meeting up with friends, taking a short break, or grabbing a beverage to go. The comfortable seating and consistent offerings make it a go-to for many visitors seeking a familiar coffeehouse experience. Its location offers easy access for those exploring the city center after their time at the rink.
1105 E Broadway · 2.6 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Silver Spoon Diner
The Silver Spoon Diner offers a classic American diner experience with a menu full of comfort food favorites, located a short drive from the rink. It’s a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, known for its friendly service and hearty portions. This diner provides a nostalgic atmosphere and is an excellent choice for groups looking for a relaxed meal together, serving everything from pancakes to burgers.
401 W Worley St · 2.1 miShakespeare's Pizza
Shakespeare's Pizza is a beloved Columbia institution, famous for its delicious, thin-crust pizzas and lively atmosphere. With multiple locations, the one on Broadway is a popular choice for students and locals alike, offering a casual dining experience perfect for families and friends. It's an ideal place to refuel after a fun activity, providing a satisfying meal with a wide variety of topping combinations to choose from.
2307 W 7th St · 2.9 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on Business Loop 70 East can be heavy during weekday rush hours and around university event times.
- Weekends, especially Saturday afternoons, are peak times for open skate sessions at Empire Roller Rink.
- Reservations for birthday parties or group events are highly recommended, especially during school holidays and weekends.
- Parking is generally ample, but can fill up quickly during popular open skate times and large party bookings.
- Consider downtown Columbia for a wider array of dining and entertainment options beyond the immediate rink vicinity.
Weather & Seasons at Empire Roller Rink
- Winter: Winter in Columbia can be cold, with average temperatures often near or below freezing. Visitors should pack warm coats, hats, gloves, and scarves for any outdoor travel to the rink. Inside, the roller rink is heated, providing a comfortable temperature for skating, but dressing in layers is still advisable. Shorter daylight hours mean planning your arrival and departure accordingly.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer bring milder, often pleasant temperatures to Columbia, with averages ranging from the 50s to the 70s Fahrenheit. Light jackets or sweaters are useful for cooler mornings and evenings. This is a fantastic time for activities, and the roller rink offers a fun, air-conditioned escape from any unexpected warmer days. Pack comfortable clothing suitable for physical activity.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer, from June through August, is typically the warmest period, with temperatures frequently reaching the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit and high humidity. Staying hydrated is key, and indoor venues like Empire Roller Rink become even more appealing. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Expect sunny days, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.
- Fall season: Fall offers a transition to cooler weather, with temperatures gradually decreasing from the 70s in September to the 40s by November. Crisp air and comfortable conditions are common, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor pursuits. Layers are your friend, allowing you to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day. This season is generally pleasant for visiting the area.
- Rain & snow: Columbia experiences rain throughout the year, with heavier periods often occurring in spring and summer. Winter can bring snowfall, though accumulations vary. When rain or snow is in the forecast, indoor activities like roller skating become prime options. Ensure footwear is appropriate for wet conditions when traveling to and from the rink, and check for any weather-related event changes.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: University of Missouri Tigers (various sports)
- Neighborhood: Near Business Loop 70 East corridor
- Nearest airport: Columbia Regional Airport (COU)
- Parking: On-site lot available
- Walkable district: Limited; rink is a destination in itself
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Numerous options along Business Loop 70
- Pharmacy: Multiple locations nearby
- Urgent care: Several facilities within a 5-10 minute drive
- Downtime: Local parks, coffee shops, or downtown exploration
- Pro tip: Check the rink’s schedule for special events and themed nights for added fun.

