Kent BrownThere’s something endlessly fun about roller skating, whether you’re a newbie on quad skates or a seasoned pro on blades. Carving out routes on remarkable lanes, or maybe even practising your roller derby skills—that’s what we call an epic day out in Toronto!
We’ve curated a list of the best roller skating spots around The 6ix, perfect for a fun, chill day on wheels. So read on to find your next big roller-skating adventure!
Rollerpony
Website: https://rollerpony.com/
Address: 75 Westmore Dr Unit B, Etobicoke, ON M9V 3Y6, Canada
Contact details: +1 647-999-4199
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 5 PM to 9:30 PM
- Friday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Saturday – 1 PM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 3 PM to 8 PM
Costs: $17.12 +tax (additional $5 for skate rental)
A short stride from downtown, Rollerpony offers a unique vintage vibe that skaters love. The floor is superbly maintained and suits beginner skaters to seasoned pros.
They’ve got you covered too, when it comes to gear since you can rent a pair that is sanitized for your safety. Now, do understand that they’ve got a strict no-outside food rule; however, their snack bar is top-tier with very friendly prices.
| Pro tip: Make sure you keep an eye on their social media pages. Rollerpony often hosts themed events like the 90’s Night, where securing a ticket in advance can guarantee the thrill of skating to classic tunes. |
Scooter’s Roller Palace
Website: http://scooters.ca/
Address: 2105 Royal Windsor Dr, Mississauga, ON L5J 1K5, Canada
Contact details: +1 905-823-4001
Operating hours:
- Thursday – 8 PM to 11 PM
- Friday – 6 PM to 9 PM, 9:30 PM to 12:30 AM
- Saturday – 1 PM to 5 PM, 8 PM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 1 PM to 5 PM, 8 PM to 11 PM
Costs: $14 to $18
Scooter’s Roller Palace has been a roller skating institution since 1975, and it continues to be a crowd-pleaser. The massive floor space, the live music, the neon lights, the indoor balcony seating—Scooter’s is nothing short of regal.
If you’re new to skating, they’ve got instructors on hand during public timeslots. On weekends, the palace turns into an exciting night scene, complete with a DJ, a light show, and a mature audience, ensuring an unforgettable time.
| Pro tip: Every Sunday morning, they organize “family days” with discounted admission. And check this: their restaurant serves mean poutine, which you really shouldn’t miss out on! |
CJ’s Skatepark
– Media credit: rampreapers
Website: https://cjsskatepark.com/
Address: 560 Hensall Cir, Mississauga, ON L5A 1Y1, Canada
Contact details: +1 905-272-6888
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 2 PM to 10 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Costs:
- $15 to $20 (Non-members rate)
- $10 to $15 (Members rate)
Toronto’s CJ’s Skatepark is one of Canada’s largest not-for-profit indoor skateparks. Skateboarding might be in the name, but CJ’s is entirely open to roller skaters too.
What sets CJ’s apart is its dedication to being inclusive and accessible—it’s a community hub as much as a skatepark. Essential gear is available for rent here, and protective equipment is mandatory for everyone.
| Pro tip: They run “girls-only” sessions on certain days. Also, they offer free entry passes to those who volunteer for events or programs! |
SUSO Skate Co. (The Bentway)
Website: http://www.susoskateco.com/
Address: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 1A9, Canada
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours: (Will re-open in Fall season 2024)
- Thursday and Friday – 6 PM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 1 PM to 8 PM
- Sunday – 1 PM to 6 PM
Costs: $30 to $80
One of Toronto’s coolest hidden gems for roller skaters is SUSO Skate Co. under The Bentway. This innovative space was transformed from an unused expressway underpass into a dynamic skatepark perfect for roller skating and skateboarding.
SUSO stands for “Step Up, Step Out,” and true to its name, it creates an inviting vibe for skaters of all levels. The park offers a series of ramps, rails, and open spaces for skaters to practice and test their skills.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to follow SUSO Skate Co. on social media for the latest news about meetups, upcoming events, and even skate lessons with experienced instructors. |
Rinx Toronto
– Media credit: barbarareport
Website: http://www.rinxtoronto.com/
Address: 65 Orfus Rd, North York, ON M6A 1L7, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-783-6492
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 12 AM
Costs: Prices depend on the number of people, so you can get the price upon booking
Rinx Toronto is a dynamic sports complex boasting plenty of leisure-time options, including a top-notch roller-skating rink. You’ll find this spot bustling with excitement with an ambience that screams “fun.”
Be ready with your protective gear, as they require it for all skaters on their rink. If you need skates, they have rentals available at reasonable rates.
| Pro tip: If you’re planning a birthday bash, Rinx offers fantastic party packages encompassing roller skating, arcade tokens, and even food for all your guests. |
Underpass Skatepark
– Media credit: mappelphotography
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/2710/index.html
Address: Lower River Street, Toronto, ON, Canada
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Costs: Free
Underpass Skatepark is a delightfully urban, graffiti-adorned skate park tucked beneath Eastern Ave. Sure, this park is a skateboarder’s dream, but there’s ample space for roller skaters too!
This spot tends to attract more daring skaters eager to challenge themselves with its ramps, banks, and transitions. However, fear not; you’ll receive plenty of encouragement and support, as the atmosphere is nothing less than friendly.
| Pro tip: I’d recommend you visit during off-peak hours (weekday mornings) for a more relaxed skating experience and use the opportunity to practice your skills without distractions. |
Toronto Roller Derby
Website: www.torontorollerderby.com
Address: 40 Carl Hall Rd., Toronto, Ontario, M3K 2C1 Canada
Contact details: +1 416-596-3075
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Costs: $10 to $40
Toronto Roller Derby isn’t just a place to skate; it’s the epicentre of a full-blown roller skater subculture. If you’re looking to not just skate but also find a family of like-minded rollers, Toronto Roller Derby is the ultimate destination.
This place offers a comprehensive “fresh meat” training program to help beginners learn the skills, drills, and strategies. And for those who fancy a good ole’ derby match, their league games are open to spectators too.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to check their website for schedules and membership fees. They have gear requirements for joining the league, but rentals are available for early training sessions. |
Trinity Bellwoods Park Hockey Rink
– Media credit: dbkert
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/241/index.html
Address: Toronto, ON M6J 2V5, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-538-9654
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 10 PM
Costs: N/A
At the heart of trendy Ossington, Trinity Bellwoods Park Hockey Rink serves as a neighbourhood roller skating hotspot in the warmer months. Fringed by leafy parkland, it’s easy to find your zen amidst urban bustle here.
To make your skating experience even more enjoyable, the rink occasionally hosts roller disco nights. And being an outdoor space, it requires no admission fee, so you can skate away whenever the mood strikes you.
| Pro tip: The rink is best enjoyed during the week when it’s less crowded. Also, since it does not offer skate rentals, remember to bring your gear. |
Harry Gairey Rink
– Media credit: blogto
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/31/index.html#tab=dropin
Address: 275 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5T 2S4, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-392-0335
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 10 PM
Costs: N/A
If you fancy a bit of history with your rolling, head over to Harry Gairey Rink. This ice rink turns into an unhindered roller skating space during the summer, offering a rink experience steeped in tradition.
As an open-air facility, it is as close to free-spirited outdoor skating as you can get. Whether you’re sustaining a full-blown roller skating love story or just flirting with the idea, this rink is a must-visit.
| Pro tip: Open from May to mid-September for roller skating, stay ahead of the crowd and visit during the early morning hours. Safety gear gets a big thumbs up here, so don’t forget to bring your own! |
Greenwood Outdoor Ice Rink
– Media credit: starry_skates
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/70/index.html
Address: 150 Greenwood Ave, Toronto, ON M4L 2R1, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-392-7804
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 10 PM
Costs: N/A
Greenwood Outdoor Ice Rink shines bright, especially when the ice has melted away, revealing a smooth concrete surface perfect for a breezy roller skate. Popular among both nearby residents and visitors, it’s the type of place you can drop by at any time.
At Greenwood, don’t expect anything fancy. It’s more the kind of skate-hard-and-forget-the-rest mentality. In addition, this place is entirely free.
| Pro tip: Greenwood doesn’t rent skates, so be sure to bring your own. Also, early mornings or late evenings are often less crowded, giving you more room to showcase those impressive skating moves. |
High Park Rink
– Media credit: karinculliton
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/77/index.html
Address: High Park, 300 Colborne Lodge Dr, Toronto, ON M6S 2T9, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-396-7378
Operating hours:
- Monday – 9 AM to 10 PM
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
Costs: N/A
We all know that High Park is the city’s beloved urban oasis. In addition to an amazing zoo, beautiful gardens, and endless hiking trails, it’s also home to a pretty cool outdoor rink.
The High Park Rink turns into a seamless roller skating platform in the summer and an ice skating rink in the winter, making it a favourite playground for any skating enthusiast. Along with free admission, the High Park Rink also promises a fun social atmosphere.
| Pro tip: High Park itself is vast, so ensure to check the map and reach the rink without wandering—unless that’s what you fancy! As for the rink, bring your own gear, as rentals are unfortunately not offered. |
Roller Skating Place
– Media credit: kimberleygiffinpritchard
Website: http://www.therollerskatingplace.com/
Address: 4442 Fairgrounds Rd, Orillia, ON L3V 6H2, Canada
Contact details: +1 705-326-1444
Operating hours:
- Friday – 7 PM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 1 PM to 4 PM, 7 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 1 PM to 4 PM
Costs: $10 (skate rental included)
Just outside Toronto, we have the aptly named Roller Skating Place, nestled in the peaceful lap of Orillia. This place is well worth the drive, especially if you’re looking for an old-school roll with a dash of retro charm.
This venue offers open skate sessions, skate rentals, and even a snack bar to keep you fuelled during your rolling ventures. Not only that, their charm extends to hosting roller discos complete with a live DJ and disco balls.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to check their website for the skating schedule, and remember that they only accept cash payments. Also, donning your safety gear is highly recommended here, as it’s all about safe, clean fun! |
Outdoor Skating Rink at Pier 8
– Media credit: jammerlinemultimedia
Website: http://www.hamiltonwaterfront.com/hamilton-waterfront-outdoor-rink/
Address: 47 Discovery Dr, Hamilton, ON L8L 8K4, Canada
Contact details: +1 905-523-4498
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 5 PM to 9:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 10 AM to 9:30 PM
Costs: $10 (skate rental included)
The Outdoor Skating Rink at Pier 8, just a short drive from Toronto, is way too exceptional to keep it our secret. Plus, as the saying goes, “Good neighbours share good things.”
Pier 8 offers a unique outdoor roller skating experience since its alluring setting on Hamilton’s waterfront gives you unparalleled views of Lake Ontario. The space morphs from an ice rink in winter to a roller-blading hub in summer.
| Pro tip: Skate rentals are available onsite if you happen not to bring your own. |
