Top Ice Skating Vancouver: Top Rinks, Parks & Tips
Vancouver offers a vibrant ice skating scene for both beginners and seasoned skaters. From iconic indoor rinks to scenic outdoor spots, the city provides a variety of experiences for families, friends, and solo adventurers. Whether gliding across ice skating Vancouver Robson Square or enjoying a public session in a neighborhood park, there’s something for everyone.
This guide highlights the top rinks, parks, and tips to help you make the most of your ice skating experience in Vancouver.
Popular Ice Skating Rinks in Vancouver
Vancouver is home to several well-known ice skating rinks that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced skaters. These rinks offer a safe and enjoyable environment, whether you’re looking for a casual skate or a more structured session with lessons.
1. Robson Square Ice Rink
One of the most iconic spots in the city, ice skating Vancouver Robson Square provides a picturesque outdoor setting in downtown Vancouver. The rink is ideal for tourists and locals alike, offering skate rentals, seasonal events, and stunning views of the city’s skyline.
2. Hillcrest Centre Ice Rink
Located near Queen Elizabeth Park, Hillcrest Centre features both public skating and hockey sessions. It’s perfect for families and those looking to enjoy a full day of ice sports, with skate rentals and instruction available.
3. Killarney Community Centre Rink
A popular choice for community skating, Killarney Rink hosts public sessions, figure skating, and recreational hockey. The friendly environment makes it suitable for beginners and young skaters.
4. Hockey and Figure Skating Club Rinks
These specialized rinks focus on training and competitive programs rather than casual skating. They are designed for advanced skaters and athletes, offering professional coaching, structured practice sessions, and access to high-quality ice conditions.
5. Richmond Ice Centre
Located in the suburbs, this indoor rink operates year-round and serves skaters of all levels. It provides structured courses for both adults and children, along with recreational public skating sessions and organized hockey leagues.
6. Canlan Ice Sports Vancouver
This modern indoor facility is well suited for group events, recreational skating, and organized competitions. With a flexible layout and multiple ice surfaces, Canlan supports skaters of all ages, from beginners to experienced players.
7. Kerrisdale Arena
Kerrisdale Arena is a community-focused rink offering public skating times, seasonal programs, and beginner-friendly lessons. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for families and local residents looking for an accessible skating venue.
8. Hillcrest Oval (Indoor/Seasonal Section)
A multi-purpose ice arena combining indoor facilities with seasonal ice sections. The rink provides rental equipment and skating lessons, catering to both casual and regular skaters
These rinks combine accessibility, amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere, making them the top choices for anyone seeking public ice skating Vancouver experiences.
Outdoor Ice Skating Spots & Seasonal Locations
Vancouver offers a variety of outdoor ice skating in Vancouver spots, perfect for enjoying the crisp winter air while gliding on ice. These seasonal rinks and natural ice surfaces create memorable experiences for families, friends, and tourists.
1. Grouse Mountain Outdoor Rink
Grouse Mountain’s outdoor rink combines stunning mountain views with a festive skating atmosphere. Open during the winter season, it features skate rentals, lessons, and holiday-themed events, making it a must-visit for both beginners and seasoned skaters.
2. Plaza Ice Rinks
Several outdoor plazas, including downtown and community parks, set up temporary rinks during winter months. These locations are ideal for short skating sessions and casual visits, providing a vibrant environment for socializing and leisure skating.
3. Seasonal Community Rinks
Neighborhood rinks pop up across the city during the colder months, offering affordable access and a friendly atmosphere. They often host family-friendly events, learn-to-skate programs, and local competitions.
Portable Power Options for Winter Ice-Skating Adventures
When you’re spending long hours on frozen lakes or outdoor rinks, staying powered becomes essential—whether it’s keeping your phone charged for photos, using heated gear, or running small accessories. Here’s how to stay connected outdoors with reliable, winter-ready solutions.
1. Explore More Power on the Go
For everyday skating trips or casual outdoor activities, a lightweight power bank offers simple, portable charging without weighing down your gear.
EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank (25,000mAh, 170W)
Perfect for skaters who need fast, efficient charging during long days outside.
25,000mAh capacity for extended winter outings
Up to 170W multi-port fast output; charge up to 3 devices at once
140W max input; recharges to 50% in approx. 20 minutes
Compact, outdoor-friendly design ideal for backpacks or skate bags
Great for phones, action cameras, hand warmers, and GPS devices
EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank (25,000mAh, 170W)
EcoFlow RAPID Charger (45W, Retractable Cable, GaN)
A convenient companion for overnight charging before your next outing.
45W fast charging for phones, tablets, and small devices
Retractable 70cm USB-C cable prevents tangling in winter gear
Built-in wall plug; compact, travel-ready design
Multi-device support to simplify your charging setup
EcoFlow RAPID Charger (45W, Retractable Cable, GaN)
Choosing the right charging solution can make a big difference during winter activities. Understanding the differences between battery chargers vs power banks helps you pick the most practical option for outdoor use.
Properly handling old or damaged devices is also important, and knowing how to recycle power bank units reduces environmental impact.
For cold-weather trips and outdoor adventures, reliable portable power banks ensure your devices stay powered when you need them most.
Tips for First-Time and Casual Skaters
For beginners or casual ice skaters in Vancouver, a few practical tips can make your experience safer and more enjoyable:
Choose the Right Rink – Start at public ice skating Vancouver locations like Robson Square, which often have beginner-friendly sessions and rental skates. Outdoor rinks can be scenic but may be uneven; indoor rinks provide more stable ice.
Wear Proper Gear – Always wear comfortable, layered clothing that allows movement. Gloves, a helmet, and warm socks can prevent injuries and keep you comfortable during your session.
Start Slow – Practice balance and basic gliding on the ice before attempting turns or faster movements. Take advantage of rink railings if available.
Use Skating Aids – Many rinks provide support frames or beginner aids. These are helpful for maintaining stability and building confidence.
Follow Safety Rules – Observe rink guidelines, avoid skating against the flow, and be mindful of other skaters to prevent collisions.
Warm Up and Cool Down – Stretch your legs and ankles before skating to prevent strains, and warm up after your session to avoid stiffness.
Conclusion
Vancouver offers ice skating opportunities for every level, from casual glides to advanced training. By exploring the city’s rinks and seasonal outdoor spots, skaters can enjoy safe, fun, and memorable experiences. Whether visiting Robson Square or local community arenas, ice skating Vancouver provides a perfect way to stay active and enjoy the winter season.
FAQs
Is there free ice skating in Vancouver?
Yes, Vancouver offers some free ice skating opportunities, though most outdoor and community rinks charge a small fee for skate rentals. For example, Robson Square sometimes hosts free skating sessions during special events, but bringing your own skates is usually required. Local community centres may offer seasonal free or low-cost public skating hours, especially for residents or families. Checking the rink’s website or social media before visiting ensures you know which sessions are free and any requirements, such as age limits or COVID-19 safety protocols.
How many ice rinks are there in Vancouver?
Vancouver has over a dozen ice rinks, including public, community, and private facilities. This includes iconic spots like Robson Square, Hillcrest Centre, Killarney Community Centre, and several seasonal outdoor rinks. These rinks accommodate a variety of activities such as public skating, figure skating, hockey, and lessons for all skill levels. The city’s rinks are distributed across neighborhoods, making ice skating accessible to residents throughout Vancouver. Seasonal outdoor rinks also expand the total number during winter months.
Are there discounts for ice skating in Vancouver?
Yes, many ice rinks in Vancouver offer discounts for seniors, students, children, and families. Seasonal passes, multi-session packages, and early-bird rates can also reduce costs. Community centers may provide special deals for local residents, and some rinks host promotional events with discounted or free skate rentals. Checking the rink’s official website or contacting the facility directly ensures you are aware of current offers and eligibility requirements for discounted ice skating sessions.