Skating in Ottawa

As winter wanders the streets of Ottawa, whether cold and grey or clear and sparkling, it's time to consider winter sports, including Skating in Ottawa.

Right at the top of our list is the free skating that is available at Ottawa's Rideau Canal...once reputed to be the world's longest skating rink.

Rideau Canal Skating in Ottawa

"The Rideau Canal — designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site — becomes the world’s largest skating rink every winter! Romantic strolls, exciting outings for the children and a festive atmosphere… Grab your skates and get ready for an unforgettable experience!" an excerpt from the NCC website.

For a couple of months each winter, when temperatures hover at or below the freezing point, Ottawa's NCC (National Capital Commission) ploughs the ice surface of the Rideau Canal from right downtown Ottawa all the way to Dow's Lake turning the heritage site into a skating wonderland.

Huts, benches and kiosks (offering among other things Ottawa's own Beavertails confection) provide the skating visitor with eating establishments and comfort stations.

Want to see what it's all about, or to check the ice conditions? Click here for information and a virtual tour.

Next on our list is the free skating that is available at Ottawa's Rideau Hall. More information is just below.

Rideau Hall

Rideau Hall's famous outdoor skating rink was built way back in 1872, by Lord Dufferin.

The sons of Lord Stanley, yes he of the hotly contested Stanley Cup, skated on this rink.

The Rideau Hall skating rink is usually open from January through March, weather permitting.

The general public is invited to come and skate on Saturdays and Sundays, from 12:00 noon through 5:00 pm, again, weather permitting. Skating is available at select hours during the week for organised groups.

Come skate! Remember, it's an outdoor rink so dress appropriately.

For more information about Rideau Hall skating visit their website and follow the links.

RA Centre

The rink is open for member-free skating on Sunday afternoons from October through March, and from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m, with the exception of December 23 and December 30.

Visit the RA website here to get more information on their skating facilities.

Here's a Google map of the RA Centre location.

Barbara Ann Scott Arena

Public skating is available at this arena on:

Here's where Barbara Ann Scott Arena is located.