Delight in the Winter at Niagara’s Open-Air Rinks!
With winter’s frosty grip taking hold, it’s perfect time to put on your skates and savor the crisp winter air at some of Niagara’s splendid open-air rinks! Combining the thrill of ice-skating in the great outdoors and a strong sense of community spirit, these rinks are your go-to destinations for skating and improvised street hockey games.
What You Need to Know:
Outdoor rinks remain open seasonally and are dependent on weather conditions. Consistent temperatures of -10 degrees Celsius or colder are essential to keep the rinks frozen and safe. Please be cautious as these rinks are unattended. Massive respect to the dedicated volunteers who maintain these rinks and provide us with a winter playground.
Rink Locations:
The city houses numerous locations with open-air ice rinks. You can explore these places by clicking the provided links or discover them via the Winter Recreation map.
Have Questions? Reach Out!
For any questions related to the open-air rinks, you can touch base with Rob McDonald, the Manager of Arenas & Athletic Fields. Contact him via email at [email protected] or call him at 905-356-7521 Ext. 3340.
Maintenance and Rules:
Let’s all play our part to keep the winter playground enjoyable, safe, and clean. Please report any maintenance issues to the Municipal Service Centre at 905-356-1355.
It’s essential to acquaint yourself with the rink rules before stepping onto the ice. Prioritize safety! Helmets and protective gear are advisable, particularly for our younger visitors. Keep an eye on the weather conditions. Please note that the rink is open every day from dusk till dawn.
Rink Rules (PDF)
- This facility is free and open to the public. Please treat everyone with respect.
- Skating and playing hockey involve some level of risk. Persons who use this ice surface do so at their own risk.
- Outdoor rinks are naturally formed, which means they may be uneven. Users are advised to inspect the ice surface before using it.
- The skating rink is closed during inclement weather or if the ice conditions are not suitable.
- Helmets and safety gear are highly recommended.
- Children should be supervised at all times.
- No food, drinks, glass objects, or pets are allowed on the ice.
- Smoking/vaping, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted anywhere near the ice.
- The rink is open daily from dawn till dusk.
Come out and enjoy the winter fun, stay safe, and make the most of Niagara’s outdoor rinks – where the cool thrill of ice skating meets the warm spirit of the community!
Sledding and Sliding Down the Slopes
Discover the Joy of Wintertime Sleigh Rides in Niagara!
Winter has arrived, so it’s time to revel in the fun of sledding around the Niagara Region! Many cherish fond childhood memories of sledding, and luckily, Niagara boasts several fantastic spots perfect for this exciting, family-friendly winter activity.
During the frosty season, Niagara transforms into an enchanting winter paradise, making it the ideal playground for fans of snowy sports. With a variety of exhilarating hills and snug parks, there’s never been a better time to try something new outdoors. You can check out upcoming events in Niagara here.
Niagara Falls
Ready for some winter excitement and a chance to make new memories? Niagara Falls offers thrilling sledding spots like FH Leslie Park for the kids, a steep adventure at Stamford Collegiate High School and the newly opened Fireman’s Park.
St. Catharines
Experience the snow-covered slopes of Burgoyne Woods Park in St. Catharines, and keep tabs on the status of Jaycee Park. For the little ones, Barbican Heights Park is a popular spot.
Fort Erie
Fort Erie invites you to the snowy landscape of Sugar Bowl Park for some icy delight.
Before heading out, remember to dress warmly with multiple layers, remove any loose scarves or facing strings, and inspect the hill for any dangers. Avoid sledding on icy days and never slide headfirst towards a road or a body of water. Helmets are recommended for safety, especially for younger adventurers. Always supervise children’s rides, and ensure that sleds or toboggans are in good condition for a smooth ride.
So bundle up, face the chilly adventures, and hit Niagara’s wonderful sledding spots. It’s about more than the ride’s thrills; it’s about making everlasting memories amidst Niagara’s magical winter landscape. Get set for an unforgettable sledding experience!