Get ready to lace up your skates! The city’s most picturesque outdoor ice rinks are gearing up to open this November for another season of outdoor fun. From Union Station to Harbourfront Centre to Canada’s Wonderland, you’ve got plenty of options for a leisurely skate under the stars with twinkling lights and breathtaking views to make the experience even more magical.

Here are some of the prettiest skating rinks opening in and around Toronto this November.

Harbourfront Centre

The Harbourfront Centre’s revamped rink is set to open on November 19th and it’s one of the city’s most picturesque spots for an outdoor skate. The rink is nestled along the Lake Ontario shoreline, along with an ice loop in the “south orchard” that connects to the rest of the rink. And once you’re done, you can warm up with a hot drink from Boxcar Social right next door.

Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W
When: November 19th, 2021 — March 6, 2022

Nathan Philips Square

The iconic rink at Toronto’s City Hall is opening at the end of this month for another season of outdoor skating. The glow of the city lights, the twinkling decorated archways above the rink and the colourful Toronto sign only add to the fun atmosphere at this popular spot. This rink also has skate rentals you can purchase if you don’t have your own.

Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W
When: November 27, 2021 — March 20, 2022

Union Station

 

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The picturesque ice rink outside of Union Station is reopening and you’ll have to sign up in advance to book your 45-minute skate. The best part? You can rent skates and a helmet for free with your government-issued ID and a deposit. On Friday and Saturday nights, the rink hosts Union Beats on Ice, a skating event with live DJs.

This unique spot offers unique views of the bustling city, the CN Tower and the Fairmont Hotel, where you can stop in for a festive cocktail at The Thirsty Elf bar once you’re done.

Where: Sir John A. Macdonald Plaza, 65 Front St W
When: November 29, 2021 — January 2, 2022

Mel Lastman Square

If you don’t want to trek all the way downtown for a dreamy skate under the stars, Mel Lastman Square is a great choice. This rink feels like a mini Rockefeller Centre in the middle of North York, with city lights and twinkling decorations all around you. There are no skate rentals available here, but there are plenty of nearby restaurants and cafes you can warm up in after your trip to the rink.

Where: 5100 Yonge St
When: November 27, 2021 — March 20, 2022

High Park

Glide among snow-covered trees at the outdoor rink in High Park, the city’s nature paradise in the heart of the west end. Later into the winter season, High Park’s Grenadier Pond will also open up for skating, when the frozen water is monitored and tested for safety. Until then, you can lace up your skates and hit the park’s enclosed rink, followed by a leisurely stroll through the incredible forests.

Where: 300 Colborne Lodge Dr
When: November 27, 2021 — March 20, 2022

Wonderland’s Winterfest

WinterFest opens on Saturday, November 13th with over 40 unique attractions, including ice skating on Snow Flake Lake, a nightly tree-lighting ceremony, an artisan market, festive food offerings, and, of course, millions of twinkling lights. Snow Flake Lake offers views of the majestic Wonder Mountain, complete with live performances of your favourite holiday songs. Skating is $5 per person for a 30-minute spot and $12 per person with rentals.

Where: Canada’s Wonderland
When: November 13th — December 31st

 

Curiocity Staff

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