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Outdoor ice skating is more than a beloved winter pastime in Toronto; it’s a celebration of the city’s vibrant community and stunning landscapes. As the mercury dips, numerous free outdoor rinks and skating trails around Toronto come to life, offering residents and visitors a perfect blend of recreation and scenic beauty. From the urban charm of Nathan Phillips Square to the historical allure of Evergreen Brick Works, each rink provides a unique experience. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a novice, there’s a spot for you to glide and twirl beneath the winter sky. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best free outdoor ice rinks and skating trails in Toronto, showcasing what makes each location special. Lace-up your skates and let’s dive in!
Here are free outdoor Ice rinks & skating trails In Toronto to check out.
The Bentway
Situated under the Gardiner Expressway, The Bentway transforms into a dreamy winter wonderland from December to February. The figure-eight-shaped skating trail offers a unique urban setting, surrounded by impressive architecture and public art. This spot is a favorite for events, including DJ skate nights and community skate parties, perfect for both dates and family outings. Embarking on a skate at The Bentway means indulging in the dynamic fusion of Toronto’s modern cityscape and playful winter fun. The rink is open from 12 PM to 9 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 9 PM on weekends. Skate rentals and sharpening services are available, ensuring that even those without gear can join in the revelry.
Nathan Phillips Square
Arguably Toronto’s most iconic outdoor rink, Nathan Phillips Square boasts a central location surrounded by the stunning architecture of Toronto City Hall. Skating here, especially during the holiday season, is a magical experience with the illuminated Toronto Sign and festive lights creating a picturesque backdrop. The rink is open daily from the first weekend of November until March break, typically operating from 9 AM to 10 PM. For those without skates, rentals are conveniently available on-site. Nathan Phillips Square also hosts various winter events, including the Cavalcade of Lights, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
Evergreen Brick Works
Nestled in the picturesque Don Valley, Evergreen Brick Works offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The outdoor rink weaves through the scenic environment of the heritage site, offering a tranquil skating experience. It’s the ideal spot for nature lovers, as the rink is surrounded by lush greenery and historical brick kilns. The skating trail at Evergreen Brick Works is open from early December through to the end of February, with hours varying based on weather conditions. Free skate rentals are available on weekends, making it accessible for everyone. After a skate, visitors can warm up with a hot drink from the on-site café and explore the site’s many trails and eco-friendly initiatives.
Greenwood Park
Located in Toronto’s Leslieville neighborhood, Greenwood Park is home to the city’s first covered outdoor rink. This sheltered feature ensures that skaters can enjoy the ice regardless of snow or rain, making it a popular destination throughout the winter months. The rink operates daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, and the facilities include a covered ice trail and a hockey pad. The adjacent clubhouse provides changing rooms and washroom facilities, ensuring a comfortable experience. Greenwood Park is perfect for families, offering ample seating around the rink and a nearby playground for children to enjoy.
High Park
High Park, one of Toronto’s largest and most popular parks, offers a charming outdoor skating rink nestled among its vast natural beauty. The rink is located near the park’s main entrance on Bloor Street West and provides a serene setting for a leisurely skate. The High Park rink operates from 10 AM to 10 PM daily. Skating here feels like a nostalgia-filled winter escape, surrounded by snow-covered trees and the tranquil ambiance of the park. Post-skate, visitors can explore High Park’s numerous trails, making it a perfect destination for a full day of outdoor activities.
Christie Pits Park
A bustling neighborhood hotspot, Christie Pits Park offers a lively ice skating rink that draws in locals for both casual skating and thrilling hockey games. The park, known for its community-oriented vibes, ensures a friendly atmosphere for all visitors. The rink is open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, with designated times for public skating and hockey. During the winter months, the park’s hills become popular for tobogganing, adding to the festive spirit. Christie Pits is ideal for a day of diverse winter fun, combining the excitement of ice activities with the welcoming embrace of the community.
Mel Lastman Square
Set in the heart of North York, Mel Lastman Square offers a charming and conveniently located outdoor skating rink. Surrounded by urban elements such as the North York Civic Centre and the Toronto Centre for the Arts, this rink is a blend of cultural and recreational experiences. The rink is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, and the square frequently hosts community events and festivals. The venue’s urban yet relaxed ambiance makes it ideal for both daytime skating and evening glide sessions under the stars. Facilities around the square, including cafes and shops, add to the convenience and charm.
Trinity Bellwoods Park
Trinity Bellwoods Park is a beloved urban green space in Toronto’s west end, known for its lively community and picturesque skating rink. The rink here offers a mix of public skating and shinny hockey, catering to different preferences and skill levels. Open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, Trinity Bellwoods Park rink creates an inviting environment for individuals and families alike. After a skate, park-goers can explore the many pathways, playgrounds, and local cafés and shops along Queen Street West. The sense of community and the park’s scenic beauty make it a quintessential Toronto winter experience.
Colonel Samuel Smith Park
Colonel Samuel Smith Park, located in Etobicoke, is home to one of Toronto’s most unique skating experiences. The park features an outdoor skating trail that winds through beautiful natural scenery, providing a serene and picturesque setting for skaters. The Colonel Samuel Smith Park skating trail is open from 9 AM to 10 PM daily, and the location also offers warming stations for those who need a break from the cold. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s diverse habitat, which remains a point of interest even in winter. Combining natural beauty with recreational fun, this park is a hidden gem for outdoor skating in Toronto.
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Future Prospects
| Skating Rink | Location | Operation Hours | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Bentway | Under Gardiner Expressway | 12 PM – 9 PM (Weekdays), 10 AM – 9 PM (Weekends) | Events, Skate Rentals |
| Nathan Phillips Square | City Hall, Downtown | 9 AM – 10 PM Daily | Festive Lights, Rentals, Events |
| Evergreen Brick Works | Don Valley | Varies by Day | Nature Trails, Free Rentals |
| Greenwood Park | Leslieville | 9 AM – 9 PM Daily | Covered Rink, Family Friendly |
| High Park | Near Bloor Street West | 10 AM – 10 PM Daily | Nature Walks, Serene Environment |
| Christie Pits Park | Christie Street | 9 AM – 9 PM Daily | Hockey and Public Skating, Tobogganing |
| Mel Lastman Square | North York | 10 AM – 10 PM Daily | Urban Location, Events |
| Trinity Bellwoods Park | Queen Street West | 9 AM – 9 PM Daily | Community Vibe, Nearby Cafes |
| Colonel Samuel Smith Park | Etobicoke | 9 AM – 10 PM Daily | Skating Trail, Nature |
