Backyard Ice Rink Rentals: How They Work
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into your backyard and skating on your own private rink, you’re not alone. Backyard ice rink rentals are becoming one of the most popular winter upgrades for families across Minnesota—and for good reason.
But how do backyard rink rentals actually work?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from setup to maintenance—so you can decide if renting a rink is the right choice for your winter.
What Is a Backyard Ice Rink Rental?
A backyard ice rink rental is a seasonal service where a company provides everything you need to enjoy a real ice rink at home—without the hassle of buying, installing, and storing the equipment yourself.
Instead of investing thousands of dollars into a permanent setup, you rent the rink for the winter and return it at the end of the season.
This makes it an ideal option for:
Families trying it for the first time
Hockey players looking to practice at home
Neighborhoods wanting a shared outdoor space
Anyone who wants winter fun without long-term commitment
What’s Included in a Rink Rental?
While it can vary slightly by provider, most backyard rink rentals (including ours at Polar Bear Rinks) include:
Rink Boards
Durable perimeter boards that define the rink and keep the water contained.
Liner
A heavy-duty liner that holds the water and forms the ice surface.
Setup & Installation
Professional installation ensures your rink is level, stable, and ready to freeze.
Take-Down in Spring
When winter ends, the rink is removed so your yard can return to normal.
How Installation Works
The process is simpler than most people expect.
1. Site Evaluation
First, your yard is assessed to make sure it’s suitable. A relatively flat area is ideal, but minor slopes can often be managed.
Backyard ice rink cost in Minnesota
2. Rink Setup
As we approach winter, the team installs:
The brackets
The boards
Any optional add-ons (like lights)
3. Filling the Rink
Once temperatures are consistantly low enough, the team installs the liner.
Water added gradually to ensure a smooth, level ice surface.
Depending on weather conditions, your rink will typically be skate-ready within a few days.
Who Maintains the Ice?
This is one of the biggest questions people have.
DIY Maintenance (Most Common)
Most rentals are designed so homeowners can easily maintain the ice themselves. This includes:
Light flooding with a hose
Shoveling snow
Occasional resurfacing
It’s easier than you might think—and many families actually enjoy the routine.
Optional Maintenance Services
Some companies offer maintenance packages if you want a completely hands-off experience.
How Long Does the Rental Last?
Most backyard rink rentals run for the full Minnesota winter season:
Setup: November to December
Use: December through February or March
Removal: Late February to March
The exact timing depends on weather conditions each year.
Why Rent Instead of Buy?
Renting a backyard rink has several advantages:
💰 Lower Upfront Cost
No large investment in equipment.
🏡 No Off-Season Storage
Rinks can take up a lot of space—renting eliminates that problem.
🛠 Professional Installation
You get a properly built rink without trial and error.
🔄 Try It Risk-Free
Perfect if you’re not sure whether your family will use it enough to justify buying.
Who Are Backyard Rink Rentals Best For?
Backyard rink rentals are especially popular with:
Families with young kids
Youth hockey players
Backyard entertainers
Minnesota homeowners looking to make the most of winter
If you’ve ever thought, “We’d use it all the time if we had one,”—you probably will.
What Does a Backyard Ice Rink Rental Cost?
Pricing depends on rink size, features, and location, but most rentals fall into a few general tiers.
How Much Does a Backyard Ice Rink Cost in Minnesota?
Factors that affect price:
Rink size
Yard slope
Add-ons (lighting, taller boards, etc.)
Installation complexity
Is Your Yard a Good Fit?
Most yards work well for a rink, but here are a few things to consider:
A flat or gently sloped area
Access to water
Space for at least a small rink (commonly 20' x 40' or larger)
Minimal obstructions like trees or landscaping
If you’re unsure, a quick site check can usually determine feasibility.
Make Winter Your Favorite Season
A backyard ice rink isn’t just a feature—it’s an experience.
It’s early morning skates before school.
It’s neighborhood hockey games under the lights.
It’s getting outside when most people stay in.
And with a rental, it’s easier than ever to make it happen.
Ready to Rent a Backyard Ice Rink?
If you're considering a backyard ice rink rental in Minnesota, Polar Bear Rinks makes the process simple—from installation to spring removal.
Learn more about our backyard rink rentals or request a quote today.