Submitted Photo Riders prepare to go for a spin in the ice bumper cars at Citizens Alley.

As the weather begins to shift, the ice bumper cars at Citizens Alley in downtown Minot are entering their final weeks outdoors.

Since Dec. 1, more than 2,000 rides have taken place on the downtown rink, according to Local Motives, which owns and operates the cars. The experience is simple to pick up and hard to leave. Riders use a joystick to spin, glide and bump their way around the ice in battery-powered cars fitted with studded tires for traction on the ice.

Each ride lasts about 12 minutes. Children ages 6 and older can drive their own car, while younger riders ages 2 to 5 can join an adult for a ride around the rink. Seat belts are worn, and staff oversee each session from start to finish. Riders should be comfortable operating a simple joystick and be able to sit upright independently during the ride.

The community first tried the cars last summer at Maysa Arena through a collaboration with the Minot Park District. The bumper cars then moved to Citizens Alley for the winter, where they’ve become a regular part of downtown activity. Bringing the bumper cars to life took early support from community partners, including Give360, Magic City Lions Club, Optimist Club of Minot and Town & Country Credit Union.

Spots are open this weekend, and booking ahead is recommended. Depending on weather, the bumper cars may operate for another week or two this winter.