Video: Beat The Heat With Skates On Your Feet

With a recent spike in temperatures reaching almost record highs, some northeast Queens residents have found a pretty cool way to spend their afternoons — indoor ice skating in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

"We've seen a 30 percent increase in the amount of skaters coming here since the start of last week's heat wave," said Sarah Chung, office manager at the World Ice Arena, who reported that the ice rink hosted more than 500 skaters last Friday alone.

But Chung was quick to point out that heading into the arena was also an excellent way for people not interested in skating to avoid the sweltering heat.

"We have free wifi, an excellent snack shop and everyone is welcome to just come in and sit in air conditioned comfort," she said.

For the die-hard skater, the indoor rink offers more than just a respite from the mid-afternoon heat. 

"This place has some of the best maintained ice around. That's why I'm here," said Alice Kim, of Flushing. 

But for parents, perhaps the best part about spending an afternoon at the World Ice Arena is that it doesn't break the bank.

"With the economy the way it is and everyone counting all their pennies, bringing the kids here is really a fun and inexpensive way to escape," parent Claudia Ariaz said.

With an admission fee of $5 dollars for the afternoon, it appears that learning to skate might be among the most affordable ways to avoid the sizzle of summer. 

To find out more about the World Ice Arena, call (718) 760-9001 or click here.

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