Outdoor Skating Rinks in Montreal for Families

Lace Up: Family Skating in Montreal

Outdoor skating is one of Quebec's most beloved winter traditions, and Montreal offers an incredible variety of rinks, trails, and natural ice surfaces. Whether you're a seasoned skater or helping a wobbly toddler take their first steps on ice, there's a perfect skating spot for your family.

Iconic Rinks

Atrium Le 1000 in downtown Montreal is the city's only year-round indoor rink, making it a reliable option regardless of weather. Located at the base of the 1000 de La Gauchetière skyscraper, the rink has a beautiful atrium setting with natural light streaming in from above. Skate rentals are available, and the rink hosts family skating sessions with music. It's centrally located and easily accessible by Metro.

• Cost: $8-10 adults, $6 children, skate rental $7
• Hours: Open daily, check website for family session times
• Bonus: Connected to the underground city for warm-up breaks

Parc La Fontaine in the Plateau features one of Montreal's most picturesque outdoor rinks. The refrigerated rink wraps around the park's central pond, with trees and vintage lampposts creating a storybook setting. The rink is free to use, and a heated chalet provides a place to warm up, change into skates, and grab hot chocolate from the snack bar.

Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors) on Mount Royal is the most magical skating experience in the city. When conditions permit, the natural lake freezes over and becomes a massive skating surface surrounded by forest. The Mount Royal chalet nearby sells hot drinks and snacks. Note: natural ice conditions vary — check the city website before going.

Neighbourhood Rinks

Montreal's boroughs maintain over 250 outdoor rinks across the city, and most are completely free. These neighbourhood rinks are maintained by volunteers and city crews, and they're often the most authentic skating experience — bring your own skates, lace up on a bench, and glide under the stars. Check your borough's recreation page for rink locations and ice conditions.

Skating Trails

Old Port Skating Rink offers a large refrigerated rink in a stunning waterfront setting. The rink is well-maintained and offers skate rentals, making it a popular tourist and family destination.

Parc des Rapides in LaSalle has a beautiful skating trail that winds through the park along the St. Lawrence River.

Tips for Family Skating

1. Dress in layers — skating generates heat, so kids often need to peel off a layer
2. Double up on socks — two thin pairs prevent blisters better than one thick pair
3. Use skating aids — many rinks offer penguin or bear-shaped supports for beginners
4. Bring extra mittens — wet mittens from falls make for cold, unhappy hands
5. Hot chocolate is mandatory — it's practically a law in Quebec
6. Start at a refrigerated rink — more predictable ice quality than natural surfaces
7. Arrive early — fresh ice is smoother and less crowded

Find more outdoor winter activities in Montreal on FamiliQC.