Neptune Skating Center, a replica of classic 80s and 90s era skating rinks, opens Friday in Ogden.

Ogden, UT — Neptune Skating Center, located at 2770 Washington Boulevard, opens Friday, February 10 at 5 p.m. A sneak peek just hours before tonight’s soft opening revealed a heart-exploding replica of this Generation X’s childhood.

Neptune owner Kris Operhal’s vision was precisely that—to build a throwback to the skating rinks of the 80s-90s that focuses on what made them great in the first place: the skating. Everything from the orange and brown roller skates, fluorescent swirls carpet, benches, neon wall stripes, snack bar, and ticket window (even the “No Gum Chewing Allowed” sign) is an intoxicating vision of the past from the moment you step inside. You can smell your childhood.

Here, you will once again skate to a live DJ every night, either Operhal or his son.

Operhal was a DJ at Riverdale Classic Skating for seven years in the 90s before it closed and moved to Layton City. “I loved it,” says Operhal, pointing out the ways he designed Neptune Skating Center in the exact likeness of it, including the same DJ booth.

Red retro lights flash and chase along above the shiny maple skating floors. The out-of-print carpet was specially remade for the center.

The idea came two years ago, but it only took Operhal nine months to bring this roller skating baby, Neptune Skating Center, to life from start to finish.

The Snack Bar is loaded with the classics: hot dogs, pizza by the slice, nachos, soft pretzels, churros, Pixie Stix, Super Rope, Cotton Candy and Tropical Snow.

There are party rooms, arcade games, and an eating area next to the snack bar—with dining benches alongside the skating rink.

Neptune also has a skate park, in an enclosed space behind the rink.

Operhal says to be patient over the soft opening weekend. The arcade games may be up and running by next weekend, but two are ready to go for tonight.

Every Saturday night is 80s Ladies’ Night, free for women ages 18 and over. There’s a discounted $5 Afternoon Skate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, $20 Family Night on Mondays, Tuesday $1 Night, and $3.50 Half Price Night on Wednesdays. Operhal says more theme nights will also be happening.

Regular entry fee is $7 per session. Rollerblade rentals range between $3-$7. Roller skates are included with entry fee.

The hours are Monday Afternoon Skate from 3 to 6 p.m. and $20 Family Night 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday $1 Night 6 to 10 p.m., Wednesday Afternoon Skate 3-6 p.m. and Half Price Night 6 to 9 p.m., Friday Afternoon Skate 3 to 6 p.m. and Party Night 7 p.m. to midnight, Saturday Super Skate 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 80s Ladies Night 9 p.m. to midnight. Thursdays are closed for private parties.

For questions or to book private parties contact: Djkriscenter@yahoo.com or call 801-920-5356.

Photos by Deann Armes / The Ogdenite inside Neptune Skating Center on Friday, February 10, 2023