Joshua ReyYou don’t have to be Tessa or Scott (Olympic-winning Canadian figure skaters) to have a blast on the ice. Ice skating isn’t just about competing; it’s a surefire way to have a good time and keep movin’ when winter rolls around.
Thankfully, we’ve got loads of indoor and outdoor rinks right here in town. and what’s even more good news is, you’re bound to find one open all-year round.
Practice Your Toe Loops at Kitsilano Rink
Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/kitsilano-rink.aspx
Address: 2690 Larch St, Vancouver, BC V6K 4K9, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-257-6976
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7am to 10pm
- Saturday: 8:30am to 5pm
- Sunday: 8:30am to 9:30pm
Price:
- Senior (65+) – $4.89
- Adult (19 to 64 years old) – $6.99
- Youth (13 to 18 years old) – $4.89
- Child (5 to 12 years old) – $3.50
- Preschooler (0 to 5 years old) – Free
The Kitsilano Rink is open from September to March, and you’ll notice right away that it’s a family-friendly spot. Beginners have their own dedicated space in the rink without taking away too much space for other skaters.
If you’re going here to just watch your friends or family skate, head to the bleachers and get comfy. There are heaters above ’em that’ll keep you warm while you munch on vending machine goodies.
Pro tip:
Vending machines here are a bit tricky to operate, so if you find yourself wanting a quick snack, we suggest you get some at the snack bars and food trucks instead.
Swizzle at the Robson Square Ice Rink
Website: https://www.robsonsquare.com/
Address: 800 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 3B7, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-646-3554
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 9am to 9pm
Price: Free admission
- Skate Rentals: $5
Built between 1979 and 1983, the Robson Square Ice Rink was reopened after the 2010 Olympic Games, and it has continued to operate every December to February every year.
This outdoor skating rink won’t cost you a dime (remember to bring your own skates), and you can stash your belongings in lockers for a mere 25 cents. The ice is smooth and spacious, and it’s honestly one of the best cheap things to do in Vancouver.
Pro tip:
On weekends, it can get really crowded here, so if you want more space to skate on, come here during the weekdays. Weekends, on the other hand, are ideal for skating and socializing, provided you don’t mind crowds.
Go Gliding along Hillcrest Rink
Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/hillcrest-rink.aspx
Address: 4575 Clancy Loranger Way, Vancouver, BC V5Y 2M4, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-257-8680
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 7am to 10pm
Price: $3.33 per person
This ice skating rink is a hop, skip, and jump away from Queen Elizabeth Park, and you can lace up your skates here any time of year. The Hillcrest Rink is quite roomy, measuring 200 by 85 feet, and can accommodate 400 folks in the stands.
They’ve even got a café on site, so after you’ve had your fill of skating, you can swing by for some toasty drinks or a bite to eat.
Pro tip:
There’s a warm area above the rink, but if you want to sit beside the rink, layer your clothes and bring a warm throw blanket for your lap because it’s chilly.
Take Skating Lessons at the Sunset Arena Rink
Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/sunset-rink.aspx
Address: 390 E 51st Ave, Vancouver, BC V5X 1C5, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-718-6517
Operating hours:
Price:
- Monday to Friday – 9am-9:30pm
- Saturday and Sunday – 9am-5pm
Nestled between Main and Fraser Street lies the Sunset Arena Rink, which is part of the Sunset Community Centre and stays open throughout the year. One of the best things about this ice rink is that there’s free parking outside the door.
What’s more is that it’s got a variety of public skating programs and lessons for all ages and skill levels, so, if you’re still getting the hang of this whole skating thing, this is the spot for you.
Pro tip:
Ice sledges here are available free of charge so make sure to take advantage of that if you’re interested in experiencing the thrill of gliding across the ice.
Work on Your Bunny Hops at the Britannia Rink
Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/britannia-rink-location.aspx
Address: 1661 Napier St, Vancouver, BC V5L 4X4, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-718-5800
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 6am to 12am
Price:
- Adult (19 to 54 years old) – $7.34
- Youth (13 to 18 years old) – $5.13
- Senior (55+) – $5.13
- Child (6 to 12 years old) – $3.68
- Skate Rental – $3.71
- Skate Sharpening – $7.62
Britannia Rink is one of the older rinks in the city, right in the heart of Commercial Drive. Sure you can see obvious signs of the building’s age, but it’s part of the nostalgic feeling you get when you come here.
This place has a full-on NHL-size ice rink, and they crank up the tunes while dimming the lights to set the mood for skaters. The ice is top-notch, nice and chilly, and it’s perfect for some speedy gliding.
Pro tip:
The parking situation here is quite limited, and there’s very little room to backup or maneuver, so it’s best to arrive early or take public transit instead.
Ride through the Trout Lake Rink
Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/trout-lake-rink.aspx
Address: 3360 Victoria Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4M4, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 9am to 6:15pm
Price:
- Child (3 to 12 years old) – $3.05
- Youth ( 13 to 18 years old) – $4.30
- Adult (19 to 64 years old) – $6.05
- Senior (65+) – $4.30
- Skate Rental – $3
- Skate Sharpening – $6.15
The Trout Lake Rink was actually built as a training venue for the 2019 Olympic Games, and it has now become a popular ice rink.They’ve got a full-on NHL-sized rink, enough seats for 250 folks, and it’s up and running from September through March.
As you glide around, you’ll groove to some catchy pop tunes, and it’s a fantastic spot for everyone – families, pals, birthday bashes, and even those nerve-wracking first dates.
Pro tip:
There’s a quaint coffee shop out back to warm you up after a chilly session on the ice.
Make Your Way to West End Rink
Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/west-end-rink.aspx
Address: 1750 Haro St, Vancouver, BC V6G 4W4, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-257-8333
Operating hours:
- Monday: 9:15am to 10:45pm
- Wednesday: 4pm to 5:45pm
- Thursday: 12pm to 4:45pm
- Friday: 4:45 pm to 8pm
- Saturday: 5:15pm to 9:45pm
- Sunday: 3:15pm to 5pm
Price:
- Senior (65+) – $4.89
- Adult (19 to 64 years old) – $6.99
- Youth (13 to 18 years old) – $4.89
- Child (5 to 12 years old) – $3.50
- Preschooler (0 to 4 years old) – Free
From October to March, West End Rink opens its doors for public skating and skating lessons. Although it’s slightly smaller than the standard, it’s good for the price, and it’s less crowded than Robson Square Rink.
Over at West End Rink, they’ve got classes for the whole gang, from the little tykes to the grown-ups. Just remember to bring your CSA approved hockey or snowboard helmet because they’re a must-have for skate lessons.
Pro tip:
You’ll find the entrance to the rink right there on the side of the West End Community Center, facing Haro Street.
Go to the Top and Skate around Grouse Mountain Pond
Website: https://www.grousemountain.com/skatingpond
Address: North Vancouver, BC V7R 4V6, Canada
Contact details:
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11am to 8pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 9am to 9pm
Price:
- Senior (65+) – $65
- Adult (19 to 64 years old) – $75
- Youth (13 to 18 years old) – $55
- Child (0 to 4 years old) – Free
This 8,000-square-foot ice skating pond is right at the top of Grouse Mountain. It’s quite fun because of the atmosphere alone—you’ve got wonderful views of the city below, lots of wildlife, and nature.
No need to fret about lugging your gear along – at this spot, you can snag snowshoes, ice skates, and sliding sleds from the Outpost Rental Shop.
Pro tip:
For the smoothest ice experience, swing by in the early morning when they fire up the Zamboni to work its magic.
Drop in at the Kerrisdale Cyclone Taylor Arena
Website: https://kerrisdalecc.com/
Address: 5670 East Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6M 3V2, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-257-8121
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 6:30am to 10pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 9am to 6pm
The Kerrisdale Cyclone Taylor Arena is a piece of local history in the Kerrisdale neighborhood, dating back to the roaring ’20s. It’s famous for its warm vibes and has been a go-to spot for generations of families and friends.
But hey, despite its age, this ice rink is well-maintained and modernized. The rink itself is equipped with a state-of-the-art cooling system; bleachers are available for spectators; and there’s even play facilities for the kids.
Pro tip:
Twice a year, this place hosts antique fairs that are a vintage lover’s dream. You can score some real treasures like old records and one-of-a-kind furniture pieces.
Skate to Your Heart’s Content at the Whistler Olympic Plaza
Website: https://www.whistler.ca/culture-recreation/facilities/outdoor-skating-rink/
Address: 4365 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC V0N 1B4, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-932-5535
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 11am to 8:30pm
Price:
- Admission fee: $2
- Skate rental: $9
When you hit the ice at Whistler Olympic Plaza, you’re in for a treat with the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains as your backdrop. The ice is also as natural as it gets, firm and crisp like a frozen lake—none of that artificial stuff.
It’s a classic ski village, complete with kids frolicking in the snow. Plus, you’ve got loads of shops and eateries at your fingertips.
Pro tip:
Parking lots here are on the other side of Main Street, but here’s an insider tip. Go here after 5pm, as parking is free of charge and the ice rink is lit with holiday lights.
Cool Off at the Shipyards Skate Plaza
Website: https://www.cnv.org/parks-recreation/the-shipyards/skate-plaza
Address: 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B2, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-982-8383
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 1pm to 8pm
Price:
- Skate rental (Adult) – $7
- Skate rental (Child) – $5
The Shipyards Skate Plaza is a real gem – it’s the biggest outdoor skating rink you’ll find in the city, with 12,000 square feet of space to glide around on. When the Christmas season rolls in, they deck it out with holiday lights and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere.
While admission and helmets are free, skates cost a small fee to rent, so if you have your own, make sure to bring it!
Pro tip:
Watch out for one tricky spot in the rink – it’s like a funnel that tends to get everyone clogged up. Just make sure to steer clear by skirting around one of those little islands.
Swing by the Ice Arena in West Vancouver
Website: https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation
Address: 786 22nd St, West Vancouver, BC V7V 4B9, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-925-7250
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 6am to 11pm
Price:
- Senior (75+) – $6.10
- Adult (19 to 64 years old) – $7.65
- Youth (13 to 18 years old) – $5.35
- Children (3 to 12 years old) – $4.20
Built in 1967, the West Vancouver Ice Arena boasts 185-feet long of ice that was installed in 2018. The arena is part of the West Vancouver Community Centre, and it’s got 15,000 square feet of ice surface available.
If you’re a seasoned skater, you might want to give this place a pass – there’s an abundance of beginners. But if you’re just starting out, this is your time to shine and practice those moves.
Pro tip:
Just a heads-up, folks: on Monday mornings, there won’t be any skate rentals available until 11:30 am, so make sure to plan ahead if you don’t have your own pair.
