Outdoor Fun: Where to Go Ice Skating in Toronto

Naturally, the home of the Toronto Maple Leafs has prime ice for all kinds of skating, from games of pickup shinny on neighbourhood ponds to picturesque figure skating rinks and trails.

Whether you need to rent a pair of skates to pass some laps under holiday lights or have your own blades to take a spin under the brick arches of a former factory open to the stars, there is no shortage of memorable ice skating rinks in Toronto. There’s even a rooftop skating spot where you can take in unbeatable views of Toronto’s iconic skyline.

So when the temperature drops and the ponds crust over thick, head out to the local ice skating rinks and see Toronto from a new perspective. Here are a few of the top places to skate this winter season.

Nathan Phillips Square

For nearly 60 years, Torontonians and visitors to the city alike have utilized Nathan Phillips Square’s outdoor ice rink. Each winter, this tourist attraction turns its reflecting pool into the perfect rink for skating.

The site offers skate rentals, helmet rentals and skate sharping ranging from $5–15. After your time on the ice, shops and restaurants are nearby to keep your perfect winter day going, as the rink is conveniently located in the city’s centre.

The Bentway

This outdoor figure-eight rink is located underneath Toronto’s Gardiner Expressway, which stretches over 220-metre-long. This public skating trail is perfect for families, couples and friends looking to enjoy the city and stay active.

Skate rentals are available, and the site has a bar where you can enjoy hot chocolate and other goodies. Make sure to stop by The Bentway’s skating path before it closes for the season on February 20, 2023.

Union Station

Take a stop at Union Station and experience some winter fun. From November through January, the site offers free public skating. Skaters at all levels are welcome to enjoy this rink in the heart of Toronto.

With a free skate rental program, opportunities for free skating lessons, food and drink spots nearby and fun entertainment, like DJ skate nights, it will surely be a great time.

Evergreen Brick Works

Glide through a snow-covered garden at Evergreen Brick Works. At this outdoor skating rink, which features a refrigeration system for sustainable cooling, you can enjoy this popular winter activity under exposed beams from the roof of the old brick factory.

Between December and March, the rink is open to the public—weather permitting—and for the 2022/2023 season, skating, skate rentals and skate sharpening are free! For an additional cost, the site also offers skating lessons for both children and adults.

Bisha Hotel Toronto

If you want to treat yourself to an overnight winter escape that includes skating, the Bisha Hotel Toronto has just the package. This year the hotel’s Holiday on Ice package includes festive drinks, an in-room movie and 30 minutes of private skating time on its seasonal rooftop rink.

So pack your skates and enjoy a magical skating experience amongst the city’s skyscrapers. This package is only available until February 27, 2023, so book your stay soon!