Finding a good sheet of ice in the high desert of Arizona feels like discovering a secret club. If you’ve spent any time in Flagstaff, you know the Jay Lively Activity Center—or just "Jay Lively" to anyone who’s ever laced up there—isn't some flashy, Olympic-sized mega-complex. Honestly, it’s a bit gritty. It’s a metal building on Turquoise Drive that smells like cold air and hockey gear. But it’s the heart of the winter sports scene in Northern Arizona, and if you're planning to visit, there are a few things that the official city website won't necessarily tell you.
Jay Lively ice rink is where the NAU Ice Jacks play, where toddlers learn to fall down gracefully, and where the Flagstaff Figure Skating Club spends their early mornings. It's a municipal rink, meaning it’s run by the City of Flagstaff. Because of that, the pricing is actually reasonable. You aren't paying "resort" prices here, even though you’re in a mountain town.
The Reality of Skating at Jay Lively
Public skating at the Jay Lively ice rink is a bit of a moving target. If you show up on a Tuesday morning expecting to jump on the ice, you might find a bunch of middle-aged guys in full pads playing "Sticks and Pucks" instead.
The schedule changes monthly. Seriously.
Because the rink serves so many different masters—youth hockey (FYHA), college teams, figure skaters, and the general public—the "open" hours are tucked into specific windows. Generally, you’ll find public sessions on Wednesday and Friday afternoons, and usually a solid block on Saturdays. But always, always check the official City of Flagstaff calendar online before you drive over. There is nothing worse than hauling three kids and a bag of snacks to the rink only to realize it's closed for a private NAU practice.
What it Costs (2026 Prices)
Basically, it’s one of the cheapest things to do in Flagstaff.
- Adults (18+): $6.75
- Youth (5-17): $3.50
- Seniors (55+): $5.00
- Skate Rental: $4.00
If you have a kid under 4, they get in free with a paid adult. They also have those little plastic "walkers" for beginners. They’re free, but they go fast on a busy Saturday. If your kid is wobbly, grab one the second you step on the ice.
Why the Atmosphere Matters
There’s a specific kind of vibe at Jay Lively. It’s not the pristine, glass-walled experience you get in Scottsdale. It’s a community hub. You’ve got the Flagstaff Northstars practicing on one end of the day and the Adult League "D Division" (the "I just started playing at 40" league) taking over at night.
The stands are cold. Like, really cold. If you are a parent going to watch a game or a lesson, don't think a light jacket will cut it. The building is basically a giant freezer. Bring a blanket or a stadium seat. Your butt will thank you.
The NAU Ice Jacks Factor
If you get a chance to see an NAU Ice Jacks game at the Jay Lively ice rink, do it. It’s loud, the bleachers are packed, and the energy is intense. Because the rink is smaller than professional arenas, you are right on top of the action. You can hear the skates carving the ice and the puck hitting the boards like a gunshot. It’s one of the best "bang for your buck" sporting events in the state.
Hockey, Figure Skating, and Learning to Glide
If you're looking for more than just a one-time skate, the programming is surprisingly deep.
- Flagstaff Figure Skating Club: They run the "Learn to Skate USA" program. It’s usually on Wednesdays. They teach everything from "Snowplow Sam" (for the tiny kids) to adult basics.
- FYHA (Flagstaff Youth Hockey Association): This is where the local hockey culture lives. They have programs for kids as young as 4.
- Adult Open Hockey: If you have your own gear, there are "drop-in" sessions. It’s usually $10 to $15, and it’s a great way to get a workout without the pressure of a league game.
A Few "Pro" Tips for Your Visit
Don't wear thin dress socks. Your feet will freeze, and the rental skates will give you blisters. Wear thick wool socks (the kind you’d use for hiking).
Also, the parking lot can be a mess. It’s shared with the surrounding park area, and when there’s a hockey tournament, it overflows quickly. If you see cars lined up along Turquoise Drive, just park there and walk. It’s easier than trying to navigate the tight turns near the entrance.
The rink is located at 1650 N. Turquoise Drive. It’s tucked away behind the hospital area (Flagstaff Medical Center). If you’re coming from downtown, just head north on San Francisco Street and follow the signs.
Is it worth the trip?
Kinda depends on what you're looking for. If you want a luxury experience with a hot cocoa bar and a DJ, this isn't it. But if you want a real, local Flagstaff experience where you can actually afford to take the whole family skating, Jay Lively is the spot. It’s honest. It’s cold. It’s fun.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check the Calendar: Go to the City of Flagstaff’s Jay Lively page to see the specific public skate hours for this week.
- Dress in Layers: Wear more than you think you need. You can always take a hoodie off, but you can't magically grow one when you're shivering on the bleachers.
- Arrive Early: For public sessions, arrive 15-20 minutes early. The line for rentals can get long, and you don't want to spend half your ice time waiting for boots.
- Book Lessons Early: If you want your kids in the Learn to Skate program, those spots usually fill up weeks before the session starts.