Top Outdoor Skating Rinks Around Kitchener-Waterloo
When the temperature drops and the snow starts to fall, there’s no better way to embrace winter than by gliding across an outdoor rink — cheeks rosy, hot chocolate in hand, and maybe a snowflake or two landing on your scarf. Whether you’re skating for the first time, teaching the kids, or showing off your twirls (no judgment if it’s more like “wobbles”), Kitchener-Waterloo has some fantastic spots to lace up and hit the ice.
Here are a few of the best local rinks to check out this winter!
Victoria Park Rink – A Classic KW Winter Scene
There’s just something magical about skating in Victoria Park. With the historic iron bridge and the city skyline as your backdrop, this rink is as picturesque as it gets. It’s a local favourite for date nights, family outings, and spontaneous weekend skates.
You’ll find the rink right in the heart of downtown Kitchener, close to cafés and restaurants where you can warm up afterward. And when the sun sets, the twinkling lights around the park make it feel like you’re skating in a snow globe.
📍 32 Dill St, Kitchener
🕒 Weather permitting, typically open mid-December through March
☕ Pro tip: Grab a hot drink at Show & Tell Coffee or Balzac’s nearby after your skate!
Waterloo Public Square Rink – Lights, Music, and Energy
If you love that upbeat, urban vibe, the Waterloo Public Square Rink is the place to be. Located right in Uptown, it’s surrounded by shops, restaurants, and plenty of energy — making it perfect for an after-work skate or a weekend hangout.
The rink is beautifully lit at night and often plays music, so you can glide (or shuffle) along to your favourite tunes. Bonus: it’s free to use, and skate rentals are often available during special events.
📍 75 King St S, Waterloo
🕒 Typically open from December through early March, weather permitting
🎶 Pro tip: Go in the evening for lights and music — it’s pure winter magic!
RIM Park Rink – Spacious and Scenic
Looking for a bit more space to skate and fewer crowds? The RIM Park outdoor rink in Waterloo is a great pick. It’s family-friendly and surrounded by open parkland, making it feel peaceful and relaxed.
There’s plenty of parking, and the trails nearby are perfect for a winter walk if you’re not quite ready to head home after your skate.
📍 2001 University Ave E, Waterloo
🕒 Free to use, open daily weather permitting
🧣 Pro tip: Bring your own skates — this one’s more of a DIY local gem.
Community Rinks – Local Fun in Every Neighbourhood
One of the best things about KW winters? The dozens of community-run outdoor rinks that pop up across local parks each year. Volunteers from neighbourhood associations keep them flooded and maintained all season long, creating a real community feel.
Some great spots to check out include:
George Lippert Park (Kitchener)
Breithaupt Park (Kitchener)
Regency Park (Kitchener)
Sugarbush Park (Waterloo)
Laurelwood Park (Waterloo)
These rinks are perfect for a quick evening skate close to home, and many even host family skate nights or community hot chocolate events.
🕒 Hours vary by location — most are open daily, weather permitting.
💡 Pro tip: Check your city’s website for up-to-date rink openings and ice conditions before heading out.
Make It a Full Winter Outing
After you’ve skated your heart out, turn it into a full KW winter adventure! Grab dinner at a cozy local spot like Abe Erb, The Bauer Kitchen, or Graffiti Market, or treat yourself to dessert at Lady Glaze Donuts or FourAll Ice Cream (because yes, ice cream is still good in winter).
Outdoor skating is one of those simple joys that makes winter in Kitchener-Waterloo something special. Whether you’re chasing the kids around the rink, skating hand-in-hand under twinkling lights, or laughing your way through a few tumbles, there’s no better way to embrace the season.
So sharpen those skates, layer up, and make some frosty memories — because in KW, winter is meant to be enjoyed, one glide at a time.