Day Trip to Galaxy Roller Rink in Groton, CT

7/22/13 - By Sherry Pardy

Unless you've been living under an industrial sized, air conditioned rock, you may have noticed it's a tad warm around the area. Shockingly, the hottest temperatures of last week's heat wave hit the shoreline like a ton of very hot and humid bricks.  We beach folks aren't used to 100 degree days, so on the off chance we see one or, in last week's case, several in a row, we headed for the most entertaining places that accommodate us the longest and with the best cooling system. Our Indoor Play Guide has come in handy for many trying to have fun on rainy or hot days. And, now that my twins are nearly 8, our adventures include more exciting excursions during the summer, so to beat the heat, we headed out of this world. Well, not exactly, but close. We spent the day recently at Galaxy Roller Rink in Groton, Connecticut and, to say the least, we had a blast!

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Back in the day, my sister and I skated every chance we got.  I remember our rink and its signature splashes of neon that glowed under the blacklights, the old school video games and, of course, the feeling of pride when you celebrated your birthday, on skates, hokey pokeying in the center of the rink, serenaded by the live DJ.  If you remember such things, then you'll absolutely LOVE Galaxy Roller Rink.  When we first walked in, I felt like I briefly walked back into my childhood, in the best way possible.

The rink was built in the mid 1950's and went by the name "Melody Skating Rink".  Over the years, and several owners later, Matt Longino, the current owner, is making the old new again.  Rental options include the traditional roller skates as well as blade styles, too.  For little ones not too sure on their skates yet, rent Skate Mate trainer frame that the kids can hold on to, and skate behind, for better stability.  You'll also find three party rooms, complete with fabulously trippy luminescent paint and lasers, snack bar, pro shop, and always a live DJ spinning your favorite music.

During the summer months, Galaxy opens Wednesday through Sunday (they're closed Monday and Tuesday for private parties) with sessions at least once a day.  On Wednesday evenings, skate from 7-10pm for just $2.00 admission, per person.  Pop in on a Saturday for the extended kids skate, from 11am to 4pm for just $6.00 admission.  Skate rentals are $3.00 in addition to admission.

Galaxy roller rink is also home to the Shore Line Roller Derby club, and hosts bouts often.  

With a giant rink space, a reasonable price and a huge nostalgia factor, Galaxy Roller Rink makes a great day trip from anywhere!

210 Bridge Street, Groton, CT  860.448.3882

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210 Bridge Street