Four Places to Enjoy Ice Skating Outdoors

There’s something magical and undeniably Canadian about ice skating outdoors.

Thanks to this winter’s frosty sub-zero temperatures, many people have been flocking to their neighbourhood pond for a skate.

If you’re looking for something a little more official (and Parks Board-approved), we’ve got you!

Here are four places to go ice skating outdoors:

1. Robson Square Ice Rink

What: Skate in the heart of downtown at Robson Skate Rink. This year, they’ve added an indoor Skate Rental and Café with skate dryers, plenty of lockers and an outdoor patio!

When: Sunday to Thursday from 9am – 9pm; Friday and Saturday from 9am – 11pm
Where: 800 Robson Street, Vancouver
Cost: Free, $5 skate rentals
More Info: https://www.robsonsquare.com/

2. Skate Plaza at The Shipyards

What: Head to North Vancouver’s waterfront for a skate on this 12,000-square-foot outdoor rink, complete with views of the downtown skyline.

When: Daily, 1pm – 8pm
Where: 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Free, skate rentals $7 adults, $5 kids
More Info: https://www.cnv.org/parks-recreation-and-culture/city-waterfront/the-shipyards/shipyard-commons/skate-plaza

3. Mountaintop Skating Pond at Grouse Mountain

What: Take in that fresh mountain air with a skate around Grouse Mountain’s outdoor rink.

When: Check hours & conditions here before you visit.
Where: Grouse Mountain, 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Complimentary with a Mountain Admission Ticket or Annual Locals Pass. Skate rentals $8 adults, $5 kids.
More Info: https://www.grousemountain.com/skatingpond

4. Skating Rink at Whistler Olympic Plaza

What: Head up to Whistler Village and lace up your skates amidst twinkling lights and mountain scenery.

When: 11am – 8:30pm (closed for ice maintenance 1:30pm – 2:30pm & 5pm – 6pm). Check for unexpected closures before you go.
Where: 4365 Blackcomb Way, Whistler
Cost: $2 admission, $8 admission & skates
More Info: https://www.whistler.ca/culture-recreation/facilities/outdoor-skating-rink