Kids In Vancouver: Best Places To Go Ice Skating Outdoors
Bundle up, strap on some skates, and participate in one of Canada’s most favourite Winter pastimes – ice skating! While Vancouver is packed with a wide variety of indoor ice rinks, these three outdoor skating spots are sure to keep the family time festive as you glide into a new year – the Canadian way. Here are the best places to go ice skating outdoors in and around Vancouver.
Robson Square Ice Rink
Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver’s Robson Street shopping district, and positioned adjacent to the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Robson Square Ice Rink is the perfect way to wrap up a day of sightseeing in the city. Snag some skates from the rental shop (or bring your own!), and go for a glide around the rink. Then, grab a snack and a hot chocolate, and nestle under the glass dome as you rest your feet and people-watch under the star-lit sky. Winter perfection.
Note: on-site rentals available for a small fee. Skating is FREE!
Hours:
Sunday – Thursday: 9am – 9pm
Friday & Saturday: 9am – 11pm
(Open until Feb. 14 2017)
<em>Grouse Mountaintop Ice Rink | Photo: wanderthroughmylens (via Flickr)</em>
Grouse Mountain Ice Rink
Only a 15-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain offers the quintessential outdoor skating experience. Breathe in the fresh air and gaze at the snow-capped treetops as you glide around the outdoor rink, set amidst a true Winter wonderland. Then, warm up in the Peak Chalet, and enjoy snacks and warm bevies (or a full dinner) before heading back down the mountain on the Skyride.
Note: Public transit and shuttle services available to and from the mountain. On-site skate rentals available for a fee.
Hours:
Monday – Sunday: 9am – 10pm
(Open for as long as Winter weather permits)
<em>Tsawwassen Springs Ice Rink | Photo: Tsawwassen Springs</em>
Tsawassen Springs Ice Rink
A 35-minute drive outside of the city, this outdoor ice rink offers some good old fashioned Winter fun, located in the heart of an all-season golf course and recreational hub. Enjoy breathtaking views of the fairways and North Shore mountains while gliding around the Canadian-style outdoor ice rink, and then pop into the on-site restaurant for a bite to eat.
Note: skaters must bring own skates and helmets. Rentals are not available.
Hours:
Weekdays: 5pm – 9pm
Weekends: 10am – 9pm
(Open for as long as Winter weather permits)