Top 5 Skating Rinks to Visit Outside of Halton
Published December 7, 2018 at 11:22 pm
Ontario is an incredible province year-round but especially in the winter time with all that beautiful snow to look at and fresh crisp air to take in. Despite not having much snow yet, it’s never too early to start preparing for what winter activities you’re going to partake in this season.
And there’s no doubt that ice skating is one of the best.
Regardless of whether you’re a pro or just learning, outdoor ice skating in the winter time is heaps of fun. And although it’s nice to skate at your local rink, it’s also nice to venture off to another area to practice your figure eights or, if you’re like me, learning how to stop.
Here are the top five skating rinks to visit outside of Halton this winter season.
Ottawa
This one, if you’re up for a drive, may seem like a no-brainer.
The Rideau Hall outdoor skating rink was originally built in 1872 and has since become an incredibly popular winter destination amongst local residents and tourists.
This year, the rink will be open until Dec. 23, Wednesday to Friday from 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., as well as Saturday and Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., weather permitting.
The rink will also be open Jan. 2 to March 24, weather permitting as well, Monday to Friday from 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., in addition to Saturday and Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
For more information, visit the Rideau Hall website.
Photo is courtesy of The Governor General of Canada website.
Collingwood
This outdoor rink, located at 250 Hume St. in Collingwood, first opened in 2004 and has remained consistent with its opening and closing times. This rink typically opens mid-December and closes mid-March.
For more information, visit the Central Park website.
Photo is courtesy of the official Collingwood website.
Toronto
This outdoor rink has been a popular destination for the past 30 years. The rink is open Sunday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and both Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. weather permitting.
While skating, visitors are able to enjoy an incredible view of Lake Ontario. This rink also offers DJ skate nights, learn to skate opportunities, and school visit opportunities. Hot food and drinks can also be purchased at the rink-side restaurant known as Boxcar Social.
For more information, visit the Natrel Rink website.
Photo is courtesy of the Harbour Front Centre website.
2. Hamilton Waterfront Outdoor Rink – Pier 8
Hamilton
This Hamilton hotspot has been popular for many winters now and it’s easy to see why.
This outdoor rink is incredibly close to Williams Fresh Café, an excellent place to stop by and warm up after you skate.
This rink was officially open as of yesterday, Dec. 7.
For more information, visit the Hamilton Waterfront website.
Muskoka
Although this ‘rink’ is not yet open, it is definitely one you won’t want to miss going to this season. The Ice Trail located at Arrowhead Provincial Park has quickly become a popular tourist destination since opening in 2012.
As the name suggests, the Ice Trail is not your typical skating rink but rather a 1.3 km skating trail through the Muskoka forest. You’re truly getting the ultimate winter experience while skating through the trail by being surrounded with snow-covered evergreen trees.
The anticipated opening date is late December or early January.
For more information, and to find out when the trail officially opens, visit the Arrowhead Provincial Park website.
Photo is courtesy of the Discover Muskoka website.
Cover photo is courtesy of the The Governor General of Canada website.
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