Where to Go Ice Skating in Calgary?
Calgary offers a wide range of skating experiences, from urban rinks and lagoon loops to sprawling park settings. Many are completely free and open to the public, while others pair your skate with winter programming, firepits, or scenic walking trails.
Whether you prefer the lively energy of downtown or the quiet beauty of neighbourhood parks, there’s a rink that fits your perfect winter mood.
Is Public Skating Free in Calgary?
Yes — most outdoor public skating rinks in Calgary are free to use, including popular spots like Prince’s Island Park, North Glenmore Park, and Prairie Winds Park. Simply bring your skates, dress warmly, and hit the ice.
Some indoor arenas or programmed experiences may require admission, but the majority of the city’s outdoor rinks are completely free and open during scheduled hours.
What Equipment Is Allowed?
To keep Calgary’s rinks safe and enjoyable for everyone, here’s what you can bring onto public ice surfaces:
Allowed
-
Ice skates (figure skates + hockey skates)
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Helmets
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Skating aids
Not Allowed
-
Hockey sticks
-
Nets
-
Toboggans
-
Sleds
When in doubt, check signage on-site — and always skate to your comfort level.
Outdoor Skating Rinks in Calgary
Before diving into our top picks, you can explore the full map of outdoor ice skating rinks in Calgary. It’s the easiest way to find a rink near you, wherever your winter adventures take you.
Here are some of Calgary’s standout outdoor skating destinations:
Big Marlborough Park
Address: 6033 Madigan Dr. N.E.
Hours: 5 a.m. – 11 p.m. daily
Big Marlborough Park offers a large, family-friendly outdoor rink surrounded by open green space. With long operating hours, it’s perfect for early-morning skates or post-dinner glides under the stars. The wide ice surface makes it a great spot for both beginners and confident skaters looking for room to move.
Carburn Park
Address: 67 Riverview Dr. S.E.
Hours: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily
One of the city’s most scenic winter hotspots, Carburn Park offers skating with serene river views and wooded pathways. It feels like a quiet escape from the city — despite being just minutes away. Ideal for relaxed weekend skates and nature lovers.
North Glenmore Park
Address: 7305 Crowchild Tr. S.W.
Skating, Ice Trail & Shinny Rink: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Crokicurl & Curling: 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
North Glenmore Park is a true winter playground. Skate the large rink, glide along the ice trail, or switch things up with crokicurl — Calgary’s favourite hybrid curling experience. With plenty of winter programming, it’s one of the best all-around skating spots in the city.
Prairie Winds Park
Address: 223 Castleridge Blvd. N.E.
Hours: 5 a.m. – 11 p.m. daily
This vibrant community park transforms into a lively winter hub, offering a spacious outdoor rink that’s perfect for families and friend groups. With long hours and plenty of surrounding amenities, Prairie Winds Park is ideal for an easy, all-day winter outing.
Prince’s Island Park
Address: 4 St. & 1 Ave. S.W.
Skating Hours: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Crokicurl: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Skating at Prince’s Island Park feels like stepping into a winter postcard. Just steps from downtown, the lagoon provides a beautiful urban-meets-nature backdrop. Add crokicurl to your visit, enjoy the river pathways, or turn it into a full downtown day.
Thomson Family Park
Address: 1236 16 Ave. S.W.
Hours: 5 a.m. – 11 p.m. daily
This Beltline favourite offers a charming community rink surrounded by modern park design. It’s cozy, central, and perfect for a quick skate with friends or a casual date night before exploring nearby cafés and restaurants.
Make Calgary Your Winter Getaway — Stay at The Westley
Ice skating is just the beginning. Calgary comes alive in the winter with festivals, markets, theatre, cozy dining, and snow-covered urban adventure. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full winter vacation, The Westley Calgary Downtown puts you close to everything — skating rinks included.
Warm up in style, settle into comfort, and make your winter memories here. Book your winter stay at The Westley today!
