Ice skating is a favorite activity among Canadians, and Toronto is no exception. There are fewer things more enjoyable in the winter time than taking a break from the indoor life to skate in the brisk, crisp air - even in Canada’s largest urban centre.
Toronto offers no shortage of options for skaters, whether they are true beginners or experienced on the ice. Whether you want to enjoy the public skate at a local indoor rink or take in the sights and sounds of Nathan Phillips Square, there is something for every skater in Toronto.
This article is all about the best rinks to skate and how to get started in ice skating in Toronto. Let’s start by looking at the best places to skate.
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The Top Ice Skating Rinks Toronto
Nathan Phillips Square
Location: Downtown Toronto
Among the best ice skating rinks toronto has to offer, Nathan Phillips Square is a large, expansive rink in front of Toronto’s City Hall, a must-do if you are visiting Toronto for the first time and want a photo in front of the famous Toronto sign. Take in the CN Tower looming above and at night, the glittering skyscrapers and colorful lights on the ice.
While Toronto is known unfortunately for its grinding traffic, Nathan Phillips Square is conveniently easy to access by public transit. You can also take a quick stroll over to the Eaton Centre for shopping or catch a show in the city’s lively entertainment district.
Harbourfront Centre’s Natrel Rink
Location: Toronto Harbourfront
Right on the edge of Toronto’s Lake Ontario shores, the Natrel Rink is a truly festive and unique skating rink with view of the water and easy access to the Harbourfront Centre’s art galleries and exhibits. The rink hosts DJ skate nights and other cultural events - though keep in mind that it is on the smaller side.
You’ll find heated change rooms and rink-side food and drinks. Open from mid-November to March. Accessible by car though public transit may be easier on busy days downtown.
The Bentway Skate Trail
Location: South of Downtown Toronto
The Gardiner Expressway is one of the busiest roadways in the province, and the Bentway offers a surprising recreational area in the heart of the hustle and bustle of the city. One benefit of being under the highway is shelter from the elements and a truly unique urban aesthetic.
The Bentway is a 220 meter trail in a figure 8 design. Nighttime skaters can enjoy an illuminated experience and novice skaters can rent skates or pay for lessons. Admission is free.
Evergreen Brick Works Skating Trail
In the Don Valley near the Eastern side of midtown Toronto is the Evergreen Brickworks, a former industrial site that has been converted into a multipurpose recreation space for the arts and local vendors. Skaters can enjoy gliding through snowy gardens and a romantic brick-and-beam backdrop.
Enjoy skating, explore the site and its galleries and art installations, and grab an espresso or tea from a local cafe. Admission to the rink is free and a shuttle is available from Broadview subway station.
Colonel Samuel Smith Park Skating Trail
A local favourite the skating trail at “Sam Smith” is a scenic glide through one of Etobicoke’s most beloved parks. A 250 meter figure-eight trail, the park winds through a natural setting near the lake in Toronto’s West End.
The rink offers change rooms and washrooms, free admission, and is easily accessible by car. Transit options are available too - check the TTC website for instructions.
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Tips for Outdoor Skating Toronto
efore committing to skating outside, make sure you are prepared to handle wintry conditions. Toronto can get cold in the wintertime!
Popular rinks or rinks downtown may be closed or difficult to access at certain times for special events.
Busy downtown Toronto areas may have limited parking, or you may have to walk from a parking lot to get to the rink. If you are taking the TTC, find the fastest route and consider whether or not you will be carrying skating gear.
Toronto is a fun and exciting city with lots of options, especially downtown. Make the most of your time and plan your skating alongside a show, restaurant meal, or concert.
How to Stay Safe While Skating
Many ice skating incidents could have been prevented with the right knowledge. Here are some tips to stay safe while ice skating.
Wear a Helmet
People wear helmets for skateboarding or bike riding, so what stops you from wearing one during ice skating? Protecting yourself when skating on hard ice should be a top priority because head injuries can be hazardous and cause long term issues.
Helmets can be quite important for young kids learning to skate for the first time.
Check Your Blades
Though a reliable ice skating rink will ensure their rentals are in perfect working condition, check the blades to make sure they are sharpened appropriately for a smooth and safe skate. If you have your own skates, check to make sure they are fit for the ice.
Make Sure Your Skates are a Perfect Fit
Wearing uncomfortable skates can ruin your skating experience and make you wish you didn't go to the rinks at all, so whether you are borrowing or buying skates, just do well to make sure they fit comfortably. Also, choose skates that are neither too loose free nor too tight, and ensure they provide adequate support for your ankles.
Practice Falling
On a more serious note, dislocated or broken limbs are amongst the most common injuries people get from ice skating incidents. So, practice a few purposeful falls to brace yourself for possible falls during skating.
Keep a Safe Distance Between you and Other Skaters
Amateur skaters may instinctively grab onto the closest person to them to retain their balance and prevent a fall. In situations like this, if you do not have to experience skating, you might find yourself crashing into the ice with the novice skater, and you may both get injured.
To avoid scenarios like this, keep a safe distance between you and other skaters at the rink at all times. Also, if you find yourself standing in as a wedge for somebody falling, try as much as possible to maintain your stamina and prevent accidents.
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When you Fall, get up as Soon as Possible
Unless you have a severe injury or a concussion, you should try your best to get up as soon as you can whenever you fall on the rink so others do not collide with you. This is because other skaters may find it difficult to see you on the ground.
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Warm-up
A simple warm-up exercise can go a long way in preventing most injuries during skating. A warm-up before skating is especially needed in cold weather to prepare your muscles for such demanding activity.
As a Beginner, Stick to the Basics
Watching experienced skaters perform various tricks like spins, skating backwards, jumps, bunny hops, etc., may be impressive. However, as a beginner, you should focus on improving your performance and stick to the basics; you do not have to impress anyone.
Do not attempt to try any tricks or stunts until you can skate comfortably and independently, which will usually take some time of practice and regular visits to the rinks.
Where Can I get Beginner Ice Skating Lessons for Adults?
If you have seen people skate with friends and family, you can tell from the beautiful smiles on their faces that they are having a lot of fun and getting some relief from their daily routines.
So if you desire to learn skating in Toronto or even Montreal, you can get your first ice skating lesson from the best coaches in Toronto Sounds amazing, right? Yes, with Superprof, you can take ice skating classes from experienced and skilled coaches anywhere in Toronto, even online, and in no time, you will get to enjoy ice skating as you have always wanted.
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