Stories

If Baseball is America’s pastime, then what is Canada’s? Of course, Hockey is the likely answer that comes to mind. It’s our national winter sport and we’re the home of the world’s hockey greats both male and female. The Tim Hortons ads featuring Sidney Crosby and Nathan McKinnon probably help push that idea as well. But the facts show that hockey is only the 2^nd most played sport for Canadian adults and 3^rd most played sport by children. So, we have a different idea for Canada’s pastime: Skating.

Skating is the basis of Hockey and is one of the most enjoyed leisure activities in Canada. There are lots of skating options that aren’t ice-based too, especially in Ontario. So, get your reading glasses on as we chronicle some of the coolest places skating can take you.

Skating through Canada’s Capital on the Rideau Canal

Yeah we know, it’s the obvious one. But it’s one of Canada’s 20 UNESCO World Heritage sites and a world-famous attraction, so… it’s worth mentioning. The Rideau Canal Skateway runs itself right through Ottawa’s city centre. At around 8km, it is the largest skating rink in the world and an experience of a lifetime for anyone wanting to get the best out of Ontario’s winters. Millions of people skate the Rideau each year, and it’s for good reason!

Details about the Rideau Canal Skateway:

Cost: Free

Skate Rentals: Available at 3 locations along Canal.

Location: Ottawa, ON K1S 0Y1

Transportation: Accessible by motor vehicle or public transit.

Strut Your Stuff at Scooter’s Roller Palace

Scooter’s Roller Palace is a Mississauga staple and a skating experience you won’t want to miss. The massive skating surface, the arcade games and pool table, the food and music; there are a million reasons to love Scooter’s. From Dancehall, to 70’s classic rock, Scooter’s is a roller skaters paradise where all the vibes are immaculate. After all, Scooter’s has been the filming location for a number of productions looking to catch the ‘blast from the past’ energy that Scooter’s exudes. So, what are you waiting for? Rent some rollers and have the off-ice skating experience you’ve always wanted.

Details about Scooter’s Roller Palace:

Cost: Varies by night.

Skate Rentals: Available for $4.50.

Location: 2105 Royal Windsor Dr, Mississauga, ON L5J 1K5

Transportation: Public transit accessible and parking available.

Glide Amongst the Skyscrapers in Downtown Toronto

Glide and stride on one of the world’s most iconic skating rinks at Nathan Phillips Square in Downtown Toronto. Breeze by the Toronto Sign (a great location for a photoshoot) while skating under the winter-night lights. The perfect spot for a first date while taking in everything Toronto has to offer.

Details about Nathan Phillips Square Skating:

Cost: Free

Skate Rentals: Available for rent (range from $10-$15)

Location: 100 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5H 2N1

Transportation: Public transit accessible, paid parking nearby.

Escape the Noise of the Big Cities with a Winter Getaway

In the picturesque Muskoka Wilderness you will find the Arrowhead Prov. Park Skating Trail. Located in Huntsville, the trail is a 1.3 km loop that winds through the dense snow-covered forest that Muskoka is known for. The trail has been called a ‘fairy tale’ skating experience and one of the Muskoka regions most popular activities. The trail has been named to many lists boasting the best of the best Ontario winter experiences. Grab your blades and get ready for the ice-skating experience of a lifetime.

Details about Arrowhead Prov. Park Skating Trail:

Cost: $21 daily park pass.

Skate Rentals: $15 for 3 hour rental.

Location: 451 Arrowhead Park Rd, Huntsville, ON P1H 2J4

Transportation: No public transit. parking available with purchase of day pass.

Skip the Ice with Some Top-Notch Ball Hockey

Ok, we may be a little bias towards this experience. But you know what they say: if you have it, flaunt it! This outdoor skating experience will take you to our Canlan Sports Scarborough Complex where you’ll be welcomed with a state-of-the-art ball hockey rink. The pad is equipped with lighting, full benches, glass surrounds, and the best baby blue surface in the world. So, come on down and have a rip because this is nothing like your average street hockey game!

Details about Canlan Scarborough Ball Hockey:

Cost: Situation Dependent.

Skate Rentals: N/A.

Location: 159 Dynamic Dr, Scarborough, ON M1V 5L8

Transportation: Public transit accessible and Free parking available.

Unfortunately, we can’t fit all the amazing skating experiences in Ontario because there are just that many! If you want to take advantage of these great Ontario experiences but need a bit more confidence on skates, try out some lessons. At Canlan we offer many different Learn to Skate programs for anybody of any age. So, what’re you waiting for?

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