WORLD CHAMPION HOCKEY TOWN TO GET WORLD'S HIGHEST RINK
John Hancock Observatory Announces Plans for State-of-the-Art "Ice" Rink More Than 1000 Feet Up
CHICAGO (Sep. 9, 2010) - Against a fairytale background of endless sky and water, officials of John Hancock Observatory today announced plans for the world's highest skating rink to open in January 2011 on the 94th floor of one of Chicago's most legendary landmarks. The rink, which will be approximately 50 feet by 20 feet and constructed of a state-of-the-art synthetic substance called XTRAICE, will be more than 1,000 feet above The Magnificent Mile, and will overlook sky-high views of the city's lakefront skyline and bustling Lake Shore Drive."Our guests already feel like they're floating on air, so now they can literally glide around the sky," said Daniel Thomas, General Manager. "We are constantly looking for ways to innovate, for new ways to entertain our guests and give them a unique story to share with their friends and family. This rink is going to provide our visitors with an opportunity you just cannot get anywhere else in Chicago, or the world."
Thomas was joined in his announcement by skating stars of Disney On Ice, currently in town with its Princess Classics production, and local children-many of whom sported World Champion Chicago Blackhawk jerseys-who enjoyed the inaugural sky-high skate on a temporary replica of the rink that will be open to the public from January 1, 2011 thru March. Thomas also announced that tickets for the Princess Classics and future Disney On Ice shows will now be sold at the Observatory's concierge desk.
"Chicago has a rich tradition of public skating rinks and now more than ever families are enjoying the fun of being on the ice," said Thomas. "Who knows, maybe a future Stanley Cup or Olympic Gold Medal Champion will lace up his or her skates right here." The Observatory will rent skates at the rink and will also offer private skating parties (for inquiries call Andrew Apa at (312) 654-5021). Bleachers will be constructed to allow families and friends to watch skaters against the skyline background of Lake Michigan and Lake Shore Drive.
About John Hancock Observatory
Located inside the iconic John Hancock Center, John Hancock Observatory is open every day from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. and, at 875 North Michigan Avenue, stands in the heart of the Magnificent Mile next to hundreds of shops, restaurants, attractions and entertainment venues. Highlights include spectacular 360° views spanning 80 miles and four states and the city's only open-air Sky Walk, all accessed by the fastest elevators in the country. John Hancock Center and John Hancock Observatory are owned and operated by affiliates of Golub & Company. More information at www.hancockobservatory.com.
