Where to Skate in Montreal

If you throw a rock, you can find a skating rink in this city. Knowing where to skate in Montreal is not an issue; it’s more about finding the perfect place to skate. Rinks come in many shapes and sizes, and some are not even rinks at all, as they use natural surroundings and climate to create a memorable skating experience.

If you think skating is boring, then you haven’t been to one of these places in Montreal. This list includes everything from skating through the woods to grooving to live DJ music while carving up the ice. Skating is truly for all ages, and no city does it better than Montreal. It’s time to lace’em up and enjoy one of Quebec’s most popular winter pastimes.

Esplanade Tranquille

Esplanade Tranquille is undoubtedly one of the best places to go ice skating in Montreal for multiple reasons. Located in the heart of the city, this outdoor skating rink has a lively atmosphere at night and a family-friendly and tranquil setting during the day.

Surrounded by stunning historical buildings, this rink offers a beautiful backdrop for skating under the stars. During the winter months, the rink is decorated with lights and festive decor, creating a magical ambiance that is hard to find elsewhere in the city.

Another reason Esplanade Tranquille stands out is its convenient location. The nearby Place des Arts metro station provides easy access to the rink, making it accessible for tourists and locals alike. This means that visitors can easily grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the area or warm up with a hot chocolate from a nearby café after their skating session.

Old Port Skating Rink – Patinoire du Vieux-Port de Montreal

The views at the Old Port Skating Rink are hard to match, as it sits right on the edge of the Saint Lawrence River, displaying the water and the surrounding cityscape. However, it’s not just the setting that sets it apart from other skating rinks in Montreal. It’s also the overall experience it shares with its visitors, right in the heart of history and action.

The rink is open from mid-December to mid-March, from 10 am to 9 pm daily and at 10 pm on weekends. Apart from the skating rink itself, there are numerous other amenities nearby for visitors.

The Old Port is a hub of activity, with an array of restaurants, cafés, and shops located only a short walk from the rink. The Old Port is known for its festive atmosphere during the winter months, with various events and activities planned throughout the season.

Atrium Le 1000, Where to Skate in Montreal Indoors

Located within the bustling business district of Montreal, Atrium Le 1000 is open for skating all year round. It’s known for always having a lively atmosphere filled with spirited music and the sunlight. As the ground-floor tenant of Montreal’s tallest building and the province of Quebec, your visit will be more than just a skate, also a check on your bucket list. 

First opened in 1992, this ice rink has become a beloved destination for families, students, and tourists, especially on really cold days where skating outside might cool your spirits. It brings life and excitement to the heart of the business district, making it a hub of activity and entertainment. However, due to its location, this rink does close a bit earlier than others.

Skating is one of the many things you can do alone in this city. For more, check out the Top 5 Things to Do Alone in Montreal.

The Pond in La Fontaine Park

This skating rink looks like a scene from a Hallmark movie. Its natural pond setting makes for a refreshing change from the typical artificial rinks found in the city and gives skaters a chance to connect with the outdoors while gliding on the ice.

The Pond in La Fontaine Park is open seven days a week and is completely free if you have your own skates. This is especially convenient for busy folks who want to squeeze in a quick skate and don’t want to pay admission.

For those without skates, you can easily rent them along with a helmet if desired. Be sure to check out the other three rinks in the area that cater to hockey players and offer other amenities for a small fee.

If you don’t have skates, you’ll want to check out this article about best skate rental places: Best Skate Rental in Montreal.

Parc Jean-Drapeau Skating Trail

The Parc Jean-Drapeau Skating Trail is truly one of the best skating rinks in Montreal. Situated on the island of Saint Helen’s (île Sainte-Hélène), it provides refrigerated, smooth trails through the park. You can also enjoy some night skating with the park lights that come on after dark.

Enjoy breathtaking views of Montreal’s skyline and the St. Lawrence River. This rink is free for those who have their own equipment, but rental services are available on-site. The rink offers lockers to store personal belongings, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience for all skaters.

Here, skaters are not limited to skating around a circular rink, but they can explore different trails and loops, adding to the excitement and adventure of the experience. It’s great for those looking to try something new during the winter months.

Knowing Where to Skate in Montreal Is Just the Start

Winter is a magical time in the city, and a little cold weather never scared any Montreal resident. Now that you know where to skate, stick around after your time on the ice to enjoy other winter activities in the city as the locals in Quebec do.

• Top 7 Montreal Landmarks You’ll Want to See
• Walking Tour: Old Montreal Self-Guided Itinerary: A Step Back in Time
• Graffiti in Montreal: Guide to the Best Street Art

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