11 places to go skating outdoors in Montreal

Nov 30 2016, 5:05 am

Strap on those skates and get out on the ice! Whether you love a fast-paced game of pond hockey, or you’re more of an elegant figure skater, there is an outdoor rink for you in Montreal.

From the classics like Beaver Lake and Bonsecours Basin to the family-friend Parc Pratt, skating is a must if you’re in Montreal this winter.

Check out 11 places to go skating outdoors in Montreal.

Bonsecours Basin

Boasting perhaps the most picturesque rink in all of Montreal, the Bonsecours Basin outdoor skating rink will be up and running this December. Though the exact date is TBA, you can expect it to open in early December and to remain open all winter long. Bring a hot date or your closest friends and enjoy a magical night of skating under the stars to holiday tunes.
When: Early December 2016-March 2017
Where: Old Port

Jeanne Mance Park

Jeanne Mance is a central location to go for a quiet afternoon skate. They have one big rink divided in two, half for hockey and half for leisurely skating. They also have a small trailer set up so skaters can change into their skates indoors. Note: there are no skate rentals available.
When: TBD
Where: Ave du Parc and Avenue du Mont-Royal

Sir Wilfrid-Laurier Park

Bustling in the summer and bustling in the winter, Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park just doesn’t stop. Though the pool may entice overheated Montrealers in the summer, it’s the 4-rink skating option that entices Montreal in the winter. There are three boarded rinks for hockey and one free skate rink playing music all day long. Plus, there is a cozy chalet with free WiFi nearby.
When: TBD
Where: Rue de Mentana & Avenue Laurier E

Parc Jean Drapeau

As part of Fete des Neige, Parc Jean Drapeau offers Montrealers the chance to skate along a long circular path. As opposed to a traditional rink, skaters will make their way along a tree-lined path complete with speakers blasting music that offers spectacular views of the city. Skates can be rented for a fee of $9.
When: January 14 to February 5, 2017
Where: 1 Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montréal

Parc Pratt

This tiny park in the heart of Outremont is one of the coziest rinks in the entire city. Typically inhabited by a couple local children and their parents, this small rink is situated in Parc Pratt along Van Horne. Bring your own skates and enjoy and afternoon of pond hockey.
When: TBA
Where: Corner of Pratt and Lajoie

Olympic Park

Village Mammouth is a winter festival that takes place right in the heart of the Olympic Village. It features an outdoor ice skating rink as well as snow tubing, an outdoor bar, and plenty of restaurants. Last year’s village was open from mid-December until mid-January, though the dates aren’t confirmed yet for the 2016-2017 year, it will most likely open before Christmas. Check the website for updates.
When: TBA
Where: Olympic Park

Jarry Park

Head on over to Jarry Park and skate atop the frozen artificial lake. This neighbourhood park located near Marche Jean Talon is a great place for families, but be sure to bring your skates as they don’t offer rentals.
When: Mid-December to mid-March
Where: 7920 St. Laurent

Parc La Fontaine

A rather interesting place for an afternoon skate session, Parc La Fontaine is filled with winding frozen waterways that will have you meandering your way through the park. If pathways aren’t your thing, there is also a boarded rink for all the hockey players out there. Admission is free, however if you need to rent skates or a storage locker, you’ll have to pay.
When: Mid-December to mid-March
Where: Parc La Fontaine, Plateau Mont-Royal

Beaver Lake

Ice skating on top of Mount Royal is simply magical. Each year, Beaver Lake freezes over and Montrealers are invited to skate on this iconic pond. If you have your own skates, this activity is totally free. If not, you can rent skates from the chalet for $9.
When: December 3-March 12, 2017
Where: Beaver Lake, Mount Royal

Bleu Blanc Rouge Rink

Funded by the Montreal Canadiens Children’s’ Foundation, this unique outdoor skating rink in Verdun is one of the few that features refrigerated ice. This means that conditions are typically better and the skating season lasts longer. Another bonus? It was made to be the exact size of the rink in the Bell Centre, so you can feel like an actual NHL player as you whizz around the ice. Note: there are no skate rentals available.
When: December – March 2017
Where: Verdun

Montreal’s Christmas Village

TOHU Cite des Arts du Cirque is once against hosting their Christmas Village. The theatrical venue will be transformed to a mecca for all things Christmas. Last year’s event featured Santa’s workshop, an authentic Christmas market, an illuminated Christmas tree, a village tavern, and most importantly, an outdoor skating rink. Check the website for updates on the schedule for the 2016-2017 year.
When: TBA
Where: 2345 Rue Jarry E

DH Montreal StaffDH Montreal Staff

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