The first patented roller skate was introduced in 1760 by Belgian inventor John Joseph Merlin. Because they were difficult to steer and stop, their popularity was no more than modest. In 1863, businessman James Plimpton improved on this design and interest in the sport grew. By the 1950s, nearly every kid had a pair of skates and a roller rink birthday party was a must. Their popularity peaked in the 1970s and ’80s, but by the mid-’90s, rinks began to close. However, all your roller skating dreams have not been crushed. We’ve still got some great old rinks in New Jersey, along with more modern additions to the skate scene. The largest roller skating rink in New Jersey is the perfect place to indulge in a little nostalgia.
Branch Brook Park Skating center is massive!
Facebook/BBP Skating Center It’s not just the largest indoor skating rink in New Jersey, it’s one of the largest in the tri-state area. It can accommodate up to a whopping 1,000 skaters! For comparison’s sake, the second largest rink in New Jersey (as far as data is available) is 15,000 square feet and can accommodate 350 skaters. Though the rink is more modern (it was built back in 1995), it gives off major retro vibes.
Strap on a pair of skates and get rolling.
Facebook/BBP Skating This rink offers plenty of options. In addition to standard skating sessions, you’ll find adult-only skating sessions, late night skating set to music (there’s even a DJ), lessons, and private parties. Admission is just $2 on Monday nights, though you’ll pay up to $10 for certain weekend events. Skate rentals are $4.
You can do more than skate!
Facebook/BBP Skating Center You’ll also find an arcade room with a nice mix of modern arcade and redemption games. Sink ships, compete in a Formula 1 race, and more. There are plenty of prizes to choose from!
There’s also a cute cafe.
Image/United Skates You’ll find casual comfort foods including pizza, hotdogs, mozzarella sticks, chicken tenders, wings, nachos, and pretzels. If you want a sweet snack, grab an icee, chocolate chip cookie, or cotton candy.
Would you love to skate some time soon? Visit Branch Brook Park Skating Center at 7th Avenue & Clifton Avenue, Newark. If you’re not in the area, New Jersey has other fantastic options including Deptford Skating Center, Frenchtown Roller Rink, ISC Mount Laurel, and Young’s Skating Center in Mays Landing. For more old-fashioned fun in New Jersey, check out this retro arcade.
Facebook/BBP Skating Center
It’s not just the largest indoor skating rink in New Jersey, it’s one of the largest in the tri-state area. It can accommodate up to a whopping 1,000 skaters! For comparison’s sake, the second largest rink in New Jersey (as far as data is available) is 15,000 square feet and can accommodate 350 skaters. Though the rink is more modern (it was built back in 1995), it gives off major retro vibes.
Facebook/BBP Skating
This rink offers plenty of options. In addition to standard skating sessions, you’ll find adult-only skating sessions, late night skating set to music (there’s even a DJ), lessons, and private parties. Admission is just $2 on Monday nights, though you’ll pay up to $10 for certain weekend events. Skate rentals are $4.
You’ll also find an arcade room with a nice mix of modern arcade and redemption games. Sink ships, compete in a Formula 1 race, and more. There are plenty of prizes to choose from!
Image/United Skates
You’ll find casual comfort foods including pizza, hotdogs, mozzarella sticks, chicken tenders, wings, nachos, and pretzels. If you want a sweet snack, grab an icee, chocolate chip cookie, or cotton candy.
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