Carousel Skate Closes After 40 Years – Will Transform into Skate City

How many kids have a had a birthday party at Carousel Skate in Sioux Falls through the years? Or enjoyed a family skate night? Nearly everyone I know. Now, the iconic Carousel Skate is preparing for the last lap for owners Anne and Chris Erickson. The skating rink was opened in 1974 by Cal Campbell. His granddaughter, Kelly Erickson, is now the manager.

The good news is, there will still be a roller skating rink on the same site just off Kiwanis Ave. Prepare the way for Skate City, a roller skating rink chain that promises to have new arcade games and concession items.

The transformation will begin with a scheduled maintenance June 28 and, according to Kelly Erickson, the rink will open under new ownership on August 1st.

The heritage of Carousel Skate will certainly be missed. Through the years in radio, and being a blessed father of three,  I've had the pleasure of meeting the owners on different occasions. I even got to "guest DJ" one afternoon as part of a radio promotion.

After 41 years of memories, Sioux Falls was lucky to have Carousel Skate. Even through a few broken bones, great popcorn, the popular prize counter, and the crane game that could never seem to grab the elusive I-Pod.

So long and thanks for the great memories!

source: Sioux Falls Business Journal