Ice Skating in Toronto 2024-2025

Winter covers Toronto in snow and ice, transforming it into a bustling urban skating paradise, with shimmering outdoor rinks that blend the charm of the season with the energy of the city. Every winter, Toronto offers an array of public and private ice rinks where you can glide under the open sky.

The most famous skating destination is the always-crowded Nathan Phillips rink in front of the City Hall. But if you prefer less crowds, it's worth to explore the Harbourfront Centre Natrel Rink renowned for Saturday DJ music, the family-friendly ice rink at Evergreen, and the rinks in Mel Lastman Square, at Greenwood Park, and Colonel Samuel Smith Park.

Ice Skating Season

Toronto's skating season typically begins in late November and runs through March, depending on weather conditions. It's advised to dress warmly in layered clothing, including gloves, hats, and jackets to keep warm while enjoying ice skating, given that Toronto's winter season gets as cold as -10°C on average.The city’s public rinks are well-maintained, and most are free of charge, with nominal fees for skate rentals. Many rinks provide warm-up areas, snack vendors, and lessons for beginners, ensuring a comfortable experience for skaters of all ages.

The Best Ice Rinks in Toronto

Nathan Phillips Square Rink

Located in the heart of downtown in front of Toronto’s iconic City Hall, the Nathan Phillips Square Rink is a must-visit. It’s especially magical in the evening when festive lights illuminate the rink, and the city skyline glowing in the background. Skating is free, and skate rentals are available for around $10 CAD. Hours are generally from 10 am to 10 pm, but holiday schedules may vary.

Harbourfront Centre Rink

The Harbourfront Centre Rink is located by Lake Ontario, providing a stunning waterfront view of the Toronto skyline. Skaters can enjoy Saturday DJ music, and there are amenities such as rental facilities, food and beverage facilities, and heated indoor change rooms. Visitors can also take advantage of free skating lessons offered every weekend morning. The rentals are starting at $15 CAD. The rink is open from 10 am to 10 pm, with extended hours till 11 pm on Friday and Saturday. The Harbourfront Centre Natrel Rink's atmosphere is lively and perfect for date nights or group outings.

Evergreen Brick Works Ice Rink

Nestled in the Don Valley, the Evergreen Brick Works Rink is family-friendly and surrounded by natural beauty. The eco-conscious design includes a covered yet open-air rink that twists through the site’s picturesque grounds. It’s free to skate, with rentals available for $5 CAD. Hours typically range from 10 am to 5 pm, making it ideal for daytime adventures with kids. Skating lessons are available for beginners.

Mel Lastman Square Rink

Located at North York Civic Centre in Toronto, this rink offers a quieter alternative to the bustling downtown spots. With plenty of nearby cafes and shops, it’s a great place to spend a relaxing winter afternoon. Admission is free, and skate rentals are priced affordably. The rink is generally open daily from 9 am to 10 pm. Skating shows start on Saturdays at 7 pm.

Greenwood Park Rink

A favorite for locals, Greenwood Park offers a unique covered outdoor rink with space for both recreational skating and hockey. It’s open from morning until late evening and provides free admission. Skate rentals are available on-site for around $5 CAD, and there’s a cozy change area for visitors.

Colonel Samuel Smith Park Rink

This waterfront rink in Etobicoke features a figure-eight trail that winds through scenic natural surroundings. Skating here is free, and skate rentals are available. Open daily from 9 am to 10 pm, it’s a peaceful option for those seeking a serene skating experience away from the city’s bustle.

Toronto’s ice skating rinks offer diverse experiences, from the lively energy of downtown to tranquil escapes in the suburbs. With affordable or free access, stunning views, and family-friendly amenities, there’s no better way to enjoy the magic of winter in this vibrant city. Throughout the winter season, Toronto also hosts a variety of skating events and competitions that attract amateur and professional skaters from all over the world. Some of these events include the Ice Dance International skating show, Synchro Canada Winterfest skating competition, and WinterSkate ice skating party. The Toronto Tourism Board website offers up-to-date information on when the events are scheduled.