Colonel Samuel Smith Park Skating Trail
Location: Etobicoke
Nestled in the serene Colonel Samuel Smith Park, this skating trail offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The trail winds through beautiful natural surroundings, with tall trees and views of the lake creating a picturesque winter wonderland. The figure-eight design makes it fun for skaters to explore while enjoying the calm atmosphere.
What makes it special:
Nature-focused experience: Unlike standard rinks, the trail feels more like skating through a forest. You might even spot some wildlife along the way!
Less crowded: Since it’s outside the downtown core, it tends to be quieter and more relaxed than other rinks.
Drawbacks:
Limited amenities: While it’s great for a peaceful skate, the park lacks onsite facilities like a warming station or food vendors. Bring your own thermos of hot cocoa!
Weather-dependent: As an outdoor trail, ice conditions can vary depending on the weather, so check before you go.
Evergreen Brick Works Skating Rink
Location: Don Valley
The Evergreen Brick Works Skating Rink is an urban gem. Set in a repurposed industrial site, this rink is surrounded by unique architectural features and nestled within the lush Don Valley. The rink is eco-friendly and offers a rustic, artsy vibe that sets it apart from traditional skating venues.
@seeusoontravel Skating at the Evergreen Brick Works this winter in Toronto!! ⛸️ The Evergreen Brick Works is located in Toronto’s east end and takes over one of the old brick factory buildings. While the skating rink isn’t the biggest, it’s a lot of fun, especially as you weave your way around snow-covered gardens. The ice surface is even sustainably cooled, using a cooling system called ECO Chill. There’s a small concession stand and skate rentals available for a suggested $5 donation. On Saturday nights, you can enjoy DJ Skate Nights as well. The Evergreen Brick Works Skating Rink is only open on the weekends and there is a free shuttle service to and from Broadview Station. #skating #toronto #wintervibes #winteractivities #fyp #foryou #torontotiktok ♬ Little Things – H2KStudio
What makes it special:
Stunning backdrop: Skating here feels like stepping into a curated Instagram post. The industrial-chic setting and natural surroundings make it perfect for photo ops.
Family-friendly extras: On weekends, the nearby market offers delicious local food and drinks, perfect for warming up after a skate.
Fire pits: Cozy up by a fire pit to make your outing even more enjoyable.
Drawbacks:
Limited ice surface: The rink is smaller compared to others on this list, which can make it feel crowded, especially on weekends.
Admission fee: While many outdoor rinks in Toronto are free, there is a small fee for skating at the Brick Works.
Nathan Phillips Square
Location: Downtown Toronto
Nathan Phillips Square is perhaps the most iconic skating destination in Toronto. Located in the heart of downtown, this rink is surrounded by the city’s stunning skyline and the Toronto sign, which glows beautifully at night. It’s the perfect spot for soaking in the city’s energy during winter.
@paubarragann One of the best activities during winter #travel #iceskating
What makes it special:
Central location: Perfect for tourists and locals alike, the rink’s downtown location makes it easily accessible.
Vibrant atmosphere: With music, lights, and plenty of people, the rink buzzes with energy.
Free skating: Admission is free if you have your own skates, making it a budget-friendly activity.
Drawbacks:
Crowded: Because it’s such a popular spot, it can get extremely busy, especially during evenings and weekends. Be prepared for some traffic on the ice!
Small ice surface for the crowds: Despite its large size, the rink can feel cramped due to the high volume of skaters.
Rental lines: If you don’t have your own skates, renting can take a while due to long queues.