Bingham Arena: A Complete Guide to One of Utah’s Premier Ice and Recreation Facilities
When it comes to sports, community events, and recreation in South Jordan, Utah, few places bring people together quite like Bingham Arena. Whether you are a fan of ice hockey, a parent looking for skating lessons for your child, or simply someone interested in community gathering spaces, Bingham Arena is a hub of activity, learning, and entertainment. This multi-use facility has become an important part of the South Jordan community, attracting both local residents and visitors from surrounding cities.
In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about Bingham Arena—from its history and facilities to its programs, events, and future prospects.
A Brief History of Bingham Arena
Bingham Arena was developed as part of the city’s broader initiative to provide high-quality recreational opportunities for its growing population. South Jordan has seen rapid growth over the past two decades, with families and young professionals moving into the area. Recognizing the need for a facility that could host sports, community events, and family-friendly activities, the city and local partners worked together to build the arena.
Today, Bingham Arena is not just a venue—it is a community landmark. Its name honors the broader Bingham area, known for its historical ties to the Bingham Canyon Mine and the families who helped shape Utah’s economic development. The arena continues this legacy by supporting community growth through sports and recreation.
Facilities at Bingham Arena
One of the main reasons Bingham Arena stands out is because of its state-of-the-art facilities. The venue is designed to be versatile, catering to ice-related sports as well as multi-purpose recreational activities. Here are some of the standout features:
1. Olympic-Size Ice Rink
The centerpiece of Bingham Arena is its Olympic-size ice rink. This rink is perfect for figure skating, ice hockey, and recreational skating. It meets professional standards, making it suitable for both local league games and larger competitive events.
2. Skating Support Amenities
To support skaters and athletes, Bingham Arena is equipped with locker rooms, skate rental services, and professional-grade ice maintenance equipment. Families can easily rent skates, and beginners don’t need to invest in expensive gear to enjoy their time on the ice.
3. Multipurpose Event Space
Beyond ice sports, Bingham Arena often transforms into a venue for community gatherings, events, and even school programs. The flexible design ensures that the arena can be adapted to a wide variety of needs.
4. Spectator Seating
For hockey games, tournaments, and skating competitions, Bingham Arena provides spectator seating. Families, friends, and fans can comfortably enjoy events, making the facility as welcoming to audiences as it is to athletes.
5. Café and Concessions
What’s a game or skate session without snacks? Bingham Arena includes a concession area where visitors can grab quick refreshments, making it family-friendly and convenient.
Programs and Activities
Bingham Arena is not just a facility—it’s a hub of year-round programs that keep people engaged and active. The variety of activities offered ensures that everyone, regardless of age or skill level, can find something enjoyable.
1. Ice Hockey Leagues
The arena is home to several youth and adult hockey leagues. These leagues cater to different skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. It’s also a training ground for aspiring athletes looking to move up to competitive levels.
2. Skating Lessons
For those new to the ice, Bingham Arena offers professional skating lessons. Certified instructors guide participants through beginner basics to advanced figure skating techniques. Children, teens, and adults can all take part in structured programs that encourage skill-building and confidence.
3. Public Skating Sessions
One of the most popular programs at the arena is public skating. These sessions allow families, couples, and individuals to enjoy recreational skating without the pressure of competition. Public skate hours are often busiest during weekends and holidays.
4. Figure Skating Clubs
Bingham Arena also partners with figure skating clubs in Utah, providing a practice space for dedicated athletes. Skaters often prepare here for local competitions, and the arena occasionally hosts exhibitions and showcases.
5. Community Events and Camps
During school breaks, Bingham Arena offers youth camps that combine athletic training with fun activities. Additionally, it hosts seasonal events—like holiday skating nights and community charity tournaments—that strengthen the sense of belonging among South Jordan residents.
Importance of Bingham Arena to the Community
The arena’s role goes far beyond sports. It has become an essential part of South Jordan’s identity, providing cultural, educational, and economic benefits.
- Youth Development: By offering structured programs in hockey and skating, the arena teaches discipline, teamwork, and resilience to children and teens.
- Community Engagement: The arena serves as a gathering place, bringing families together for events and recreational activities.
- Health and Wellness: Ice sports and skating promote physical activity, balance, and coordination, encouraging healthier lifestyles.
- Economic Impact: Hosting tournaments and regional events brings visitors to South Jordan, benefiting local businesses like hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Events at Bingham Arena
One of the most exciting aspects of Bingham Arena is its calendar of events. These range from small local competitions to larger tournaments that draw athletes from across the state.
- Hockey Tournaments: The arena frequently hosts youth and adult hockey tournaments. These events not only showcase local talent but also attract teams from other cities.
- Skating Shows: Seasonal figure skating shows highlight the talents of local skaters, often tying in themes like winter holidays or community celebrations.
- Special-Themed Skates: Bingham Arena has hosted fun nights like “Disco Skate,” “Family Skate Night,” and “Costume Skate,” making the facility appealing even to casual participants.
- School and Group Visits: Local schools often bring students for field trips, promoting physical activity and teamwork in a fun environment.
Bingham Arena and the Future
As South Jordan continues to grow, so too does the importance of facilities like Bingham Arena. With the increasing popularity of ice sports in the region, demand for skating lessons, hockey leagues, and event space is on the rise. Plans for expansion and upgrading facilities are often discussed, with the goal of keeping the arena modern, sustainable, and accessible.
In addition, the arena is becoming increasingly focused on sustainability initiatives. Ice rinks traditionally consume large amounts of energy, but modern practices like efficient refrigeration systems and eco-friendly construction materials are helping reduce the environmental impact.
Visitor Tips for Bingham Arena
If you’re planning to visit Bingham Arena, here are some practical tips:
- Check the Schedule: Public skating and events vary by season, so it’s best to review the official calendar before going.
- Dress Warmly: Even though you’re indoors, ice arenas can be chilly, so layers are recommended.
- Rent Skates Early: Rentals can sell out quickly during peak times, so arrive early.
- Family-Friendly Hours: Families with young children may want to attend afternoon or early evening sessions, which tend to be less crowded.
- Parking and Accessibility: The arena provides ample parking and is designed to be accessible for all visitors.
Conclusion
Bingham Arena is more than just an ice rink—it’s a cornerstone of South Jordan’s recreational life. With its Olympic-size rink, versatile facilities, and wide range of programs, it provides something for everyone, from aspiring athletes to families seeking fun outings. Beyond sports, it serves as a vital community hub where people can connect, celebrate, and grow together.
