Empire Roller Rink gives that ’70s feel without the bell-bottoms and flipped-out hair. The roller rink has been operating under owners Willie and Lisa Trent for several years and offers a kind of entertainment that can’t be found around campus.
Each night hosts a different event: pizza parties on Wednesdays, College Retro Skate from 9 to 11 p.m. Thursdays and Christian Skate on Fridays. Public sessions are also open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Prices can range anywhere from $4.75 a person to $6.75 a person, depending on the day.
“(Skating) is very enjoyable and something fun to get away from the usual,” freshman Ryan Soukup says. “Plus, skating for under $5 is pretty good considering you can barely get a fast-food meal for under five dollars now. It’s a cheap alternative to going to a movie or something like that.”
In addition to its public skate nights, the rink also offers hockey leagues and an artistic skate club that is nationally ranked. There is also the option to book private group parties or birthday parties.
The rink breaks off from being another random party around campus and brings you back to your childhood.