Nathan Phillips Square is home to one of Toronto’s biggest seasonal ice skating rinks. The park is a popular gathering place for residents and visitors who want to experience one of Canada’s favourite pastimes. 

It’s winter in the City of Toronto, and what better way to embrace Canadian culture than by gliding across the ice at Nathan Phillips Square’s seasonal skating rink. Situated in the heart of Old Toronto, this iconic winter wonderland is the place to be when temperatures drop. You can rent ice skates, snack at the nearby food stalls, improve your skating skills, and mingle with the masses.

Visit one of Toronto’s top attractions

Out of more than 100 indoor, outdoor, and natural ice rinks in and around Toronto, this one easily takes the gold for the most photogenic. Skating is a must-try experience for visitors to Canada, and we’ve got everything you need to know about Toronto’s famed ice rink. 

Set beneath the glowing Toronto sign, Nathan Phillips Square’s Skating Rink is a favourite with locals and tourists alike. So lace up your skates and get outside to check out why Nathan Phillips Square is the best spot for winter fun in the city.

Everything you need to know about skating at Nathan Phillips Square Rink

How to get to Nathan Phillips Square Skating Rink

The ice skating rink sits in the south-east corner of Nathan Phillips Square, at the intersection of Bay Street and Queen Street West in historic Old Toronto. The plaza spans about 12 acres, making it Canada’s largest city square. 

The view from Nathan Phillips Square couldn’t be more picture-perfect, with views of the CN Tower and Toronto City Hall providing the perfect backdrop for your skating experience. Plus, it’s only about 2km from Harbourfront Centre and the East Bayfront along Lake Ontario, so you can take in more of Toronto’s attractions once you’re off the ice. 

The rink is easy to get to, with bus and rail stops on all surrounding streets. The closest route is the number 1 bus, which drops you off on Bay Street across from the plaza. Subway riders can also take the train to Queen Street Station.

What to bring when ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square

Skating at Nathan Phillips Square is free and for skaters of all levels. If you’re new to skating or don’t have your own, you can rent ice skates and helmets for a small fee. Just make sure to bring some cash or bank cards and a photo ID for the deposit. For Nathan Phillips Square skating rental rates and times, you can check their website. 

There are lockers available to securely store anything you don’t want to bring on the ice. If your ice skates need a tune-up, the kiosk also offers skate sharpening for a small cost. 

Don’t forget something to take photos with, and remember to dress for the cold weather, as winter in Toronto can be brisk, to say the least. Above all, bring your sense of adventure and fun!

Best times to visit Nathan Phillips Square Skating Park

Ice skating usually begins in November and continues until mid-March, depending on temperatures and weather. Once open for the season, the Nathan Phillips Square skating hours run from 9:00 to 22:00 daily. 

If you want to avoid large crowds, try to get there early in the morning, midday, or later in the evening. The rink is busiest on the weekends when tourists and locals are vacationing or off work. You’ll also run into larger crowds late morning, afternoon, and early evening during the week. 

Skating fun for the whole family

As one of the city’s busiest public gathering spots, the park is filled with locals and visitors of all ages. Skating for the first time is an exciting experience that the entire family can enjoy. 

You won’t need to rush off for food either. There are food trucks and casual eateries dotted around the ice pad. The square also offers a skate rental kiosk, an observation deck, a playground, chess tables, and a spectacular elevated walkway that gives a great view of the park. 

The Peace Garden is another family-friendly site to see within the square. Remember to get a photo in front of the famous Toronto sign to remember your day of winter adventures. You could easily spend the whole day at the park without getting bored, but you’ll probably want to check out the rest of Toronto, too.

Nathan Phillips Square highlights at a glance 

• Nathan Phillips Square features a large reflective pool that becomes an ice skating rink in the winter months.

• The park is located at the intersection of Bay Street and Queen Street West in Old Toronto.

• A variety of activities, events, and amenities make this a public space suitable for all ages.

• Visitors should remember to bring appropriate winter clothing and gear, such as winter jackets, knit hats, gloves, and scarves. Skate and helmet rentals are available at the park.

• The ice rink opens for winter skating in November through mid-March, weather permitting.

Find a hotel deal for your Toronto vacation

Need somewhere to stay in Toronto? The city has plenty of nearby hotels and accommodations that offer a cozy place to relax after your day of winter activities. Start your search today to find the best rate for your stay.