Of all the seasons, the one that brings snow and below-zero temperatures is our least favourite – but it still has its perks! For some, December brings Hallmark movie marathons and the holidays, while others can finally hit the hills, the light displays and of course, the ice! Not sure what all the freezing cold fuss is about? Here are 10 outdoor skating rinks in and around Calgary that will have you falling for the winter season!
OLYMPIC PLAZA
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In search of magic? Olympic Plaza has got it! A universal favourite, Olympic Plaza has Christmas lights, trees, a view and is surrounded by a “city-alive” atmosphere. This one also gets bonus points for the skate rental hut on site.
Where: Olympic Plaza, 228 8 Ave SE
Time: 6 AM – 11 PM
Cost: Free
BIG MARLBOROUGH PARK
With walking paths, two massive parking lots, a toboggan hill, bleachers and a fireplace to warm your buns, BMP is another that has it all. Unfortunately, skate rentals aren’t available here, but it’s centrally located and ice is maintained by the city, which makes up for it.
Where: 6033 Madigan Dr. NE
Time: 5 AM – 11 PM
Cost: Free
BOWNESS PARK LAGOON
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Located alongside Calgary’s beautiful Bow River, Bowness Park Lagoon has a hut where you can rent skates for only $10 a day – plus the twinkly lights and skating trail make it a perfect evening outing.
Where: 8900 48 Ave NW
Time: 5 AM – 11 PM
Cost: Free
THOMPSON FAMILY PARK
Looking for something a little bit ‘intimate’ or easier to watch the kids? Thompson Family Park makes the perfect family skating rink. It’s also a great date spot, only minutes from 17th Avenue restaurants! There aren’t rentals at this spot, but it’s quiet, quaint and comfortable.
Where: 1236 16 Ave SW
Time: 5 AM – 11 PM
Cost: Free
CARBURN PARK
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Located on the outskirts of Calgary’s Riverbend community, Carburn park is a gorgeous spot, where Calgarians can skate under the sun – or the stars if they’re willing to brave the cold. There aren’t skate rentals in Carburn, but there are year-round washrooms and for that we’re thankful.
Where: 67 Riverview Dr. SE
Time: 5 AM – 11 PM
Cost: Free
PRAIRIE WINDS PARK
While you’ll have to leave the hockey sticks at home, Prairie winds is still a great rink for practicing, gliding gracefully and taking it easy – just remember to bring your own skates, because they don’t have rentals at this one!
Where: 223 Castleridge Blvd NE
Time: 5 AM – 11 PM
Cost: Free
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LAKE LOUISE
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Willing to travel outside the city? Considered one of the most beautiful outdoor skating rinks in the entire world, Lake Louise should be an item on every Albertan’s bucket list! There’s literally nothing else like it.
Where: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – 111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise
Time: All hours
Cost: Free
ROSEDALE COMMUNITY RINK
Have fun no matter the time of the day! At Rosedale Community Rink those interested can shoot their shot at 2 pm or 2 am – it’s really up to you – just remember to turn the floodlights on and then off again after 10:30 using the nearby switch.
Where: 901 – 11 Ave NW
Time: All hours
Cost: Free
COUGAR CREEK
It’s hockey night in Canmore! With boards, benches and two nets – Calgarians are encouraged to check this one out with their game faces on. The best part? There’s also plenty of parking, public washrooms and floodlights that go off at 10 PM every night. How nifty!
Where: Elk Run Boulevard and Canyon Road, Canmore
Time: Sunrise – 10 PM
Cost: Free
So there you have it, Calgary. 10 outdoor skating rinks in and around Calgary! Now get out there and enjoy yourselves!
Cassandra Stefanic
Regional Editor, Prairies – Cassandra is a Calgary-based journalist with a deep appreciation for music, film, food, travelling and story-telling. When she’s not chasing a story, writing or editing, you’ll likely find her binge-watching a new TV series, at a speakeasy with friends, cooking, or getting lost in a Taylor Swift re-record.
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