Written by Stephania Saridakis on 28.01.14

From December through March, the weather permits the perfect opportunity to enjoy ice-skating as an outdoor activity in Montreal. We’ve narrowed it down to some of the favourite spots amongst Montrealers.

Bonsecours Basin

One of the perks of skating at the Bonsecours Basin is the beautiful view of Old Montreal. The space is always well lit and the rink carries a certain theme everyday of the week, with a certain style of music as of 7:00pm. Head over for the perfect date night on “Romantic Thursdays” or have a family day on “Retro Fridays”. Monday through Wednesday they also hold ballroom matinees from 10:00am until 12:00pm.

Location: Old Montreal
Hours: Monday – Wednesday: 10am-9pm
Thursday – Sunday: 10am-10pm
Cost: Teens, Adults, and Seniors: 6$.
Children 6-12 years: 4$.
Children under 6 years: Free.
Family: 15$.
Rentals:   Yes
More Info: 514-496- PORT


Parc Lafontaine

Nestled in the heart of Park Lafontaine is the kind of skating rink you would want to wander about in. This urban setting consists of ice paths situated amongst trees and there is also lots of ice space for those who like to show off their ice-skating skills.

Grab a hot chocolate at the Espace La Fontaine restaurant set up in the midst of the park to warm up on colder days or head over when hunger starts to kick in.

Location: Le Plateau Mont-Royal
Hours: Weekdays: 11:00am-10:00pm.
Weekends: 10am-10pm.
Cost: Free
Rentals: Yes
More Info: 311


Beaver Lake

Mount Royal Park’s Beaver Lake will have you forgetting that you are in the centre of Montreal for a moment. Their skating rink is actually a refrigerated one so the reliability is always reassuring especially during the milder days. Beaver lake’s natural setting also allows for other outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, cross country skiing and sledding. Don’t hesitate to climb up the mountain after a day of fun outdoor activities; the scenic view of the city makes for the perfect photo op.

Location: Mount Royal Park
Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 9am-9pm, Friday and Saturday 9am-10pm.
Cost: Free
Rentals: Yes
More Info: 514-843-8240


Olympic Park

Every year the Olympic Park hosts many winter related activities.  The location is very family-oriented and representative of a winter wonderland. The main feature: a rather large skating rink. There is always free entertainment as well as food options at this location.  Tree decorating, live bands and food trucks are just a few of the perks that come along with a day spent at the Olympic Park from Friday through Sunday.

Location: Olympic Village
Hours: Monday to Thursday from 9am –8pm (rink open as of 4pm)
Friday & Saturday 9am-10pm
Sunday 9am-9pm
Cost: Free
Rentals: No
More Info: 514-252- 4141


Centropolis

For those who don’t mind venturing a little out of the city, Laval’s Centropolis has become a hot spot for dining and activities. During the winter season a small skating rink is set up, surrounded by a variety of restaurant choices.  It’s the perfect spot for a festive skating experience while listening to your favourite holiday tunes. You can grab a warm hearty meal to warm up afterwards and there is even a movie theatre on location for an entire day of family fun. Bring your children by the rink on Saturdays from 1:00p.m. to 5:00p.m. until March 8th for special organized activities and a free hot chocolate!

Location: Laval
Hours: Daily from 9am-11pm
Cost: Free
Rentals: No
More Info: 450-681-4811

  • Always call and ask about the ice conditions before showing up.
  • All rates are based on one-day access.
  • Note that some Rental offices close earlier than their skating rinks.

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