Where to Go Ice Skating in Toronto This Winter: 16+ Best Outdoor Rinks
Winter in Toronto means one thing: it’s time to lace up your skates.
Whether you’re a local looking to make the most of the season or a visitor excited to try skating for the first time, Toronto has no shortage of magical spots to hit the ice.
From iconic downtown rinks with CN Tower views to hidden trails tucked away in neighbourhood parks, skating in Toronto is more than just a fun activity – it’s a winter tradition. And the best part? Many of the city’s outdoor rinks are completely free.
In this post, I’ll share my favourite outdoor skating rinks in Toronto (yes, I’ve skated at every single one on this list), where to rent skates, and tips to make the most of your day out.
So lace up those skates – here’s where to find the best ice rinks in Toronto this winter.
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Outdoor Skating Rinks in Toronto Worth Visiting
❆ Visit my Google Maps leisure skating list for the location of each of these outdoor skating rinks in Toronto.
1. Nathan Phillips Square
❆ Rink Open: November 29, 2025 – March, 2026
Address: 100 Queen St W, Toronto, Ontario
Skate Rental: Yes
✓ Best for: Classic Toronto winter vibes in the heart of downtown. Great for families, couples, or anyone who wants that picture-perfect city skating experience.
f you’re looking for the most well-known outdoor rink in Toronto, this is it. Skating at Nathan Phillips Square has become a bit of a tradition for our family – especially in December when the holiday lights are up and the Toronto sign is lit in the background.
It’s right in front of City Hall and across from the Sheraton Hotel, just steps from the Eaton Centre, so it’s super easy to get to by transit. There’s skate rental on site, plus change rooms, washrooms, and a small snack stand if you want to warm up with something hot.
It does get really busy, especially around the holidays or during events like Cavalcade of Lights, so I usually try to go on a weekday evening when it’s a bit quieter. It’s definitely one of those spots that’s worth checking out at least once in the season.
2. The Bentway Skate Trail
❆ Rink Open: December – February
Address: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON
Skate Rental: Yes
✓ Best for: A unique downtown skate with a fun, urban vibe – great for families, beginners, or anyone who wants a unique outdoor skating experience.
The Bentway is hands down my favourite place to go skating in Toronto. It’s got this cool, under-the-expressway vibe that makes it feel completely different from any other rink in the city – and it’s just a fun place to spend time in winter.
The trail loops around in a 220-meter figure-eight, so you’re not just going in circles like at a regular rink. There’s music playing, lights overhead, and usually something fun happening – whether it’s free events or themed skate nights. One year I went to see the Polar Bear Skate where people actually skate in their underwear – for charity!
There’s skate rental and sharpening on site, plus washrooms and a small snack bar. If you’re driving, there’s a Green P parking lot right beside the rink. But it’s also easy to get to by TTC or bike if you’re downtown already.
It’s definitely a go-to if you want a more laid-back skating experience without the crowds of Nathan Phillips – and it’s just a cool space to explore, even if you’re not a big skater.
3. Skate By The Lake: Harbourfront Outdoor Rink
❆ Rink Open: November 28 to March 1
Address: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8
✓ Best for: Outdoor skating vides with views of the CN Tower and on Toronto’s waterfront.
After being closed for a number of year, the Harbourfront rink finally reopening last winter and it’s such a welcome return. This is one of the few rinks in Toronto where you can skate right along the lake with views of the CN Tower in the background.
Every Saturday night, they offer free skate rentals and host DJ Skate Nights, which adds a fun, lively vibe. There are also outdoor fire pits, local vendors, and food trucks nearby, so it’s easy to make a full evening of it – perfect for a date night!
It’s a great choice if you’re downtown and looking for something that feels festive but not overcrowded. I usually recommend it to friends visiting the city who want to skate in the heart of the city.
4. Evergreen Brick Works
❆ Rink Open: December – February
Address: 550 Bayview Ave., Toronto, Ontario
Skate Rentals: Yes – $5 suggested donation
✓ Best for: A quiet, nature-filled skate with trails, hot chocolate, and a cozy weekend market vibe.
Evergreen Brick Works is one of my favourite spots when I want a more peaceful, low-key skating experience. The rink here is small and covered, which means you’re protected from the wind and snow – perfect for those extra chilly days. It feels intimate and relaxed, surrounded by trees and nature and yet easily accessible.
I usually like to pair a skate here with a winter hike through the trails at the Brick Works. It’s such a pretty escape, especially after fresh snowfall. And if you go on a Sunday, you can do some holiday shopping at the winter market followed by hot apple cider at the cafe!
There’s a $5 suggested donation for skate rentals, and if you’re coming by TTC, there’s a free shuttle from Broadview subway. At night, the rink is softly lit, and on some evenings they host DJ Skate Nights with food vendors – it’s a really nice way to spend a winter evening.
5. Colonel Samuel Smith Skating Trail
❆ Rink Open: November – March
Address: Colonel Samuel Smith Park, 3145 Lake Shore Blvd. W.,
Skate Rental: No
✓ Best for: A quiet, scenic skate through the trees – great for families or anyone looking for a skate trail in the city’s west end.
This west-end gem is one of the more unique places to skate in the city. The Colonel Samuel Smith Skating Trail winds through a figure-eight loop along the edge of the park, with trees lining the trail and a peaceful, natural vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere in Toronto.
There’s no skate rental here, but you’ll find an indoor change area, washrooms, and a large parking lot just steps from the trail. It’s a good pick for families or anyone with younger kids since it’s rarely too crowded and the setting feels calm and inviting.
The trail runs right beside the Power House Recreation Centre, a historic brick building from the 1880s. On colder days, it’s a great place to warm up or lace up your skates before heading out. You can also skate in the evening – the path is lit, and they often have music playing, which makes it feel extra cozy without being a tourist hot-spot.
6. Barbara Ann Scott Ice Trail at College Park
❆ Rink Open: November – March
Address: 444 Yonge St., Toronto, Ontario
Skate Rental: No
✓ Best for: A quieter downtown skate with lights, calm vibes, and easy subway access.
If you’re looking for a low-key option for skating in Toronto downtown, the Barbara Ann Scott Ice Trail is worth checking out. It’s tucked inside College Park, just steps from the subway, and offers a relaxed alternative to the bigger, busier rinks nearby.
The trail is small and easygoing – perfect if you already have your own skates and just want a peaceful glide. There’s a heated indoor space with washrooms where you can change and warm up, and in the evenings, the trail is lit up with seasonal lights that make it feel especially cozy.
Parking can be a bit of a challenge in this part of the city, so public transit is your best bet. I usually suggest this spot to locals or anyone downtown who wants to skate without the crowds.
7. The Well Skating Rink
❆ Rink Open: November – December
Address: 410 Front St. W., Toronto, ON
Skate Rental: Yes – $10/hour (donated to charity)
✓ Best for: A quieter downtown skate, ideal for date nights or a low-key family outing.
The Well is one of Toronto’s newest downtown spots, and its small outdoor skating rink is a nice surprise – especially if you’re looking for a relaxed option for skating in the downtown core without the big crowds.
The rink itself is on the smaller side, but it’s a lovely place for a date night or a casual skate with friends or family. Skating is free, and rentals are available for a $10 donation that goes to charity, which is a great touch.
After your skate, you can hang out in the square, grab a drink, or warm up by one of the fire pits. During the holidays, The Well hosts seasonal events, so plan to explore the area after your skate. It’s a good choice if you want to combine skating with dinner or a bit of shopping, all in one stop.
☞ Curious to learn more about this Toronto location? Read my guide to Toronto’s Newest Must-Visit Downtown Destination, The Well.
8. Skating at Snow Flake Lake at Canada’s Wonderland
❆ Rink Open: November 16, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Address: Canada’s Wonderland, Vaughan, Ontario
Skate Rental: Available for an additional fee
Cost: Admission to WinterFest at Wonderland + Pre-booked skating times
✓ Best for: Families who want to combine skating with a full holiday event including rides, holiday lights, and other festive activities.
If you’re heading to Canada’s Wonderland during WinterFest, don’t skip the chance to skate at Snow Flake Lake. The rink is set right in front of Wonder Mountain and feels like a fun bonus to the park’s holiday festivities.
Skating here does require an extra fee on top of your WinterFest ticket, and you’ll need to book a 30-minute session in advance and sign a waiver. But the upside is that the sessions are capped, so it’s never too crowded – which makes it great for families with younger kids.
Skate rentals are available, and the whole experience feels festive, especially with the lights and music around the park. If you’re already planning a trip to Wonderland this season, it’s worth packing your skates or renting a pair and giving it a try.
☞ Looking for even more things to do around the holidays? Read my list of the best holiday activities and Christmas events in Toronto – perfect for winter weekends in the city!
9. Paul Quarrington Outdoor Ice Rink at Sherbourne Common
❆ Rink Open: November – March
Address: 61 Dockside Dr., Toronto, Ontario
Skate Rental: No
✓ Best for: Families, beginners, or anyone looking for a quiet and uncrowded place to skate.
This small outdoor rink at Sherbourne Common flies under the radar, which is exactly what makes it great – especially if you’re just starting out or skating with younger kids. It’s one of the few rinks in the city where you can usually count on having space to move without weaving through a crowd.
There are no amenities or skate rentals here, so you’ll need to bring your own gear. But the setting makes up for it – the rink is right along the waterfront with a nice view of Lake Ontario and the downtown skyline.
If you’re looking for a quieter spot to skate, and don’t need all the extras, this is the ideal location in Toronto’s downtown.
10. Riverdale Park East
❆ Rink Open: November – March
Address: 550 Broadview Ave., Toronto, Ontario
Skate Rental: No
✓ Best for: Skaters of all levels who want open space, skyline views, and a bit of winter fun beyond the rink.
Riverdale Park East has one of the best setups in the city if you’re looking for space and variety. There are two rinks here – a large one with boards and a separate figure-eight trail – which makes it great for all skill levels, whether you’re working on your hockey skills or just out for a casual skate.
I like this rink because it’s easy to get to by TTC – it’s close to Broadview Subway Station – but there’s also lots of parking close by.
There’s also a popular toboggan hill right next to the rink, so if you’re heading here with kids, it’s easy to turn a quick skate into a full afternoon of winter fun.
11. High Park Ice Rink
❆ Rink Open: November – March
Address: High Park, 1873 Bloor St. W.
Skate Rental: No
✓ Best for: A quiet, scenic skate in Toronto’s largest park – perfect for families or a peaceful solo outing.
High Park offers a lovely outdoor skating option if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed and surrounded by nature. The rink is tucked inside Toronto’s largest park, making it feel like a bit of a winter escape without having to leave the city.
It’s a good pick for families or anyone who just wants to go for a casual skate in a quieter setting. There are no rentals here, so you’ll need to bring your own skates.
Safety tip: While it might look tempting, skating on Grenadier Pond or other open water in the park isn’t allowed and isn’t safe. Stick to the designated rink to enjoy your skate safely.
12. Greenwood Outdoor Ice Skating Rink
❆ Rink Open: November – March
Address: Greenwood Park, 150 Greenwood Ave.
Skate Rental: No
✓ Best for: Skaters who want to play hockey or just enjoy a casual skate in a park setting.
Greenwood Park has one of the most versatile skating setups in the city. There’s a full-sized ice hockey rink with boards, plus a separate figure-eight leisure pad right beside it – so whether you’re into pick-up hockey or just want to glide around, there’s a space for you.
Personally, I love this spot for shinny. The rink is usually in good condition, and the covered area beside the hockey rink makes a big difference on snowy or rainy days. There are benches to gear up and a warm indoor area where you can change and take a break.
Street parking is available nearby, and there are washrooms on-site. If you’re visiting with kids or want to extend your winter outing, there’s even a solid tobogganing hill right in the park.
13. McCowan District Park Skate Trail and Rink
❆ Rink Open: November – March
Address: 150 McCowan Rd., Scarborough, ON
Skate Rental: No
✓ Best For: Skaters in Scarborough looking for a quiet, local trail with plenty of space and free parking.
McCowan District Park in Scarborough offers a great mix of a large skating rink and a winding skate trail – and it’s rarely busy, even on weekends. This one feels like a bit of a hidden gem if you’re in the east end.
When I visited, I actually had the trail to myself while a group of teens had the full rink for their own hockey game. It’s ideal if you want to practice, learn, or just enjoy skating without dodging crowds.
There’s plenty of free parking, plus a heated indoor space where you can change and warm up. There’s also a solid playground nearby if you’re bringing little ones along.
While there’s no skate rental here, it’s one of the better options in the city if you already have your gear and want space to move.
14. Kew Gardens Ice Rink
❆ Rink Open: November – March
Address: Kew Gardens, 2075 Queen St. E.
Skate Rental: No
✓ Best for: Skaters looking for a scenic spot by the beach with plenty to explore nearby.
Kew Gardens Ice Rink is one of the more unique places to skate in Toronto thanks to its location – right beside the beach in the heart of the Beaches neighbourhood. You can actually see Lake Ontario as you skate, which gives it a totally different feel compared to rinks in the downtown core.
The rink itself is well-maintained and popular for pick-up hockey (or shinny, as we call it), but it’s just as good for a leisure skate. There are heated indoor change rooms and public washrooms right beside the rink, which are open year-round. Just be prepared – it can get windy by the water, so dress in layers.
What I like most about this spot is that it’s not just about the skating. You can pair your visit with a walk along the 3.5-kilometre boardwalk at Woodbine Beach, stop into a local café on Queen Street, or explore Glen Stewart Ravine nearby. It makes for a great winter weekend outing in the east end.
15. Withrow Park Skating Rink
❆ Rink Open: November – March
Address: Withrow Park, 725 Logan Ave
Skate Rental: No
✓ Best for: A relaxed neighbourhood skate with easy TTC access and great local eats nearby.
Withrow Park is a classic neighbourhood park ideal for winter fun. The rink is right in the middle of a family-friendly park, just a short walk from the Danforth – which makes it super convenient if you want to grab food or hop on the subway after your skate.
This boarded rink is a great option if you live nearby or want to check out a less busy alternative to a downtownnk ri. The park also has a toboggan hill, so it’s an easy place to spend a couple of hours with kids.
Whether you’re skating, sledding, or just out for a stroll along the Danforth, Withrow Park offers a simple, easygoing winter outing in a friendly park setting.
16. Mel Lastman Square Rink
❆ Rink Open: November – March
Address: Mel Lastman Square, 5100 Yonge St., North York
Skate Rental: No
✓ Best for: A lively, uptown skate with lots of shops, restaurants, and public transit nearby.
Mel Lastman Square is a great spot if you’re in North York and want a festive, city-style skate without heading downtown. The rink sits in the middle of a busy public square, so there’s usually a bit of a buzz – especially during the Holiday Fair in the Square, one of the city’s best seasonal events.
There’s no skate rental here, but if you’ve got your own gear, it’s a convenient place to enjoy an outdoor skate under the lights. The rink is especially pretty at night when it’s fully lit.
It’s also super easy to get to by TTC, and there are plenty of spots nearby for a post-skate coffee or bite to eat.
BONUS: Union Station Roller Express (Indoor Roller Skating)
Open: November – February
Address: Union Station, 65 Front St. W.
Skate Rental: Yes – Free
✓Best for: Something different – free indoor roller skating in a high-energy downtown setting.
If you’re looking for a unique alternative to outdoor rinks, the Union Station Roller Express is a fun downtown option. For the past couple of winters, Union Station has swapped ice for roller skating, turning its west wing into a free indoor rink with DJ Skate Nights, themed events, and 19+ Winter Mixers.
Free skate rentals are available on-site, but the rink is popular — especially on weekends — so it’s best to book your time slot online in advance to avoid missing out.
It’s a great pick if you’re downtown and want a quick, fun alternative winter activity without bundling up.
Know Before You Go: Skating in Toronto
- Most rinks are free – You’ll only need to pay for skate rentals (if available).
- Skate rentals vary – Popular downtown spots like Nathan Phillips Square, The Bentway, and The Brick Works offer rentals. Many local rinks do not.
- Helmet rules for kids – Children under 6 must wear a CSA-approved helmet. Recommended for ages 7+.
- Arrive dressed to skate – Not all rinks have indoor change rooms or washrooms. Check ahead if that’s a must-have.
- Weather matters – Outdoor rinks are weather-dependent. Always confirm rink status before heading out.
Skating in Toronto FAQs
How many outdoor skating rinks are in Toronto?
Toronto has over 50 outdoor rinks across the city, maintained by the City of Toronto. Most are free and open to all skill levels.
Is skating free at Nathan Phillips Square?
Yes! The rink is free to use. Skate rentals are available on-site for a fee.
When is the best time to go skating in Toronto?
Late November through early March is ideal. For peak conditions and festive vibes, aim for December through January.
Can I rent skates at City Hall?
Yes – skate rentals are offered at Nathan Phillips Square, but they can sell out during busy times and there can be long lines.
Leisure Skating in Toronto: Final Thoughts
Ice skating is one of the best ways to enjoy winter — and in Toronto, we’re lucky to have so many great outdoor rinks to choose from, most of them completely free.
Whether you’re an experienced skater or trying it for the first time, Toronto makes it easy to get outside and enjoy this classic Canadian tradition.
From iconic spots like Nathan Phillips Square to neighbourhood gems across the city, there’s a rink for every type of skater – whether you’re heading out with family, meeting up with friends, or planning a cozy winter date.
So bundle up, grab your skates (or rent a pair), and enjoy one of the most fun and accessible winter activities Toronto has to offer.
