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Skate Your Heart Out at Quebec City’s Top 10 Ice Skating Rinks
When winter hits Quebec City, you’ll find the ice skating rinks are where the magic happens—seriously, it’s like a real-life winter wonderland, minus the snowball fights (unless you’re into that).
Whether you’re gliding gracefully like you’ve been training for the Olympics since age 5 or wobbling on your skates like you just discovered your feet, there’s a rink for you. From the bustling heart of Old Quebec to quieter spots where you can skate without crashing into a hockey team, these rinks have it all.
So, grab your skates (or rent a pair), bundle up, and let’s dive into the best places to channel your inner figure skater—or at least pretend you know what you’re doing.
Place D’Youville
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Address: Rue Saint-Jean
Contact details: +1 418-641-6256
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 10 AM – 10 PM
If you’re looking for an ice skating experience steeped in the old-world charm of Quebec City, Place D’Youville is where you want to be. Imagine gliding around on a perfectly maintained outdoor rink, with the historic walls of Old Quebec and the grand Théâtre Capitole as your backdrop.
The rink is nestled in one of the busiest parts of town, making it a lively place to skate while soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re a tourist exploring Quebec’s winter beauty or a local looking for a romantic spot, this rink offers a little something for everyone.
Even though it’s outdoors, the rink is refrigerated, so you can count on great ice conditions throughout the season—even if Mother Nature doesn’t deliver the perfect winter chill. Skates are available to rent, so you don’t have to worry about lugging your gear around if you’re passing through.
Pro tip:
Head there in the late evening when the rink is quieter, and the twinkling lights create a magical ambiance.
Site des sports d’hiver de la Pointe-aux-Lièvres
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Address: 51 Rue de la Pointe-aux-Lièvres
Contact details: +1 418-641-6345
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 10 AM – 10 PM
Looking for a winter spot that’s a bit off the beaten path? The Pointe-aux-Lièvres winter sports site offers an outdoor skating haven that feels like a peaceful retreat into nature, even though it’s still close to downtown Quebec City.
Tucked along the St. Charles River, this spot features more than just a traditional rink—there are also scenic skating trails that weave through the snowy landscape. Families and winter sports enthusiasts will find plenty to love here.
After skating, you can explore nearby trails for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, making it a great multi-activity destination. It’s a more lowkey, less commercialized space, offering a laid-back experience for those who prefer outdoor adventures without the usual hustle and bustle.
Pro tip:
Bring along a portable heater or extra layers to stay warm during breaks—it’s a more exposed area, but the views along the river make it worth the chilly breeze.
Centre de Glaces de Québec
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Address: 999 Av. De Rochebelle Entrée 1
Contact details: +1 581-983-9316
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Friday: 6:30 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 AM – 8 PM
Into the technical side of skating, or just curious about speed skating? The Centre de Glaces de Québec is a spot you should check out. This place is massive and has something for everyone, from casual skaters to athletes who are serious about their training.
The 400-meter speed skating oval is the real star here—one of the few in Canada—so whether you’re a total beginner or getting ready for a competition, you’ll feel right at home. And since it’s indoors, it’s a great spot for skating all year round, which is pretty handy when Quebec’s weather decides to be unpredictable.
What’s cool about this place is the vibe. The ice is perfect, and the facilities are modern, but it doesn’t feel intense or intimidating. You can just come for a casual skate or sign up for classes if you want to step up your game—whether it’s speed skating, figure skating, or even hockey.
Pro tip:
For those new to the sport or wanting to dive deeper, consider booking a class or joining one of their community programs.
Bardy Arena
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Address: 2280 Av. Monseigneur-Gosselin
Contact details: +1 418-641-6115
Opening hours:
- Sunday: 1 PM – 1:45 PM
- Wednesday: 4 PM – 4:50 PM
Bardy Arena has a straightforward, no-frills vibe that makes it a local favourite. It’s where people go to work on their skating or spend a relaxed afternoon with the kids.
Tucked away in a residential neighbourhood, the rink has a true community feel, with families, friends, and neighbours regularly gathering there. The ice is always in great condition, so you can count on a smooth, reliable surface without any distractions.
One of the best things about Bardy is how laid-back and accessible it is. It’s quieter than the bigger, more central rinks, making it a great option if you’re looking for a peaceful spot for ice skating.
Pro tip:
Double-check the public skating hours online before you go. Since it’s a community rink, schedules can change due to hockey games or local events, and you don’t want to miss out on some prime skating time.
Valcartier Vacation Village
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Address: 2280 Bd Valcartier, Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier
Contact details: +1 418-844-2200
Opening hours:
- Friday: 5 PM – 9 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 4 PM, 5 PM – 9 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 4 PM
When it comes to full-on winter fun, Valcartier Vacation Village is where you want to be. Known for its sprawling snow tubing park and the nearby Hôtel de Glace (Ice Hotel), this is much more than just a place to skate—it’s a full winter destination.
The outdoor skating paths are winding and tree-lined, making it feel like you’re skating through a winter forest. There’s a sense of adventure here, as you can follow the paths for a more immersive, exploratory skate rather than simply going around in circles.
After skating, there’s plenty more to do: tubing, sliding, and even checking out the stunning ice hotel that gets rebuilt every year. And for couples, there’s a touch of romance in the air, especially when you’re skating at dusk under the softly glowing lights.
Pro tip:
Plan to spend a full day here and explore the Ice Hotel after skating. They have ice sculptures and an ice bar where you can warm up with a drink in hand.
Complexe Les 3 Glaces
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Address: 655 Pierre-Bertrand Blvd
Contact details: +1 418-681-0440
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 11:30 PM
For hockey lovers or anyone who enjoys a structured skating environment, Complexe Les 3 Glaces is a great choice. This multi-rink complex offers both hockey and figure skating options, so you can either hit the ice for a pickup game or enjoy a more casual skate.
It’s got a modern, clean design, and while it doesn’t have the historic charm of outdoor rinks, it more than makes up for it with top-notch facilities.
The rink is often busy with practices, games, and tournaments, so if you’re a fan of the sport, it’s a great spot to catch some local action. But don’t worry—there’s plenty of public skating time if you’re not into hockey.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking to practice your hockey skills, check out their schedule for stick-and-puck sessions.
Méga Parc
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Address: 5401 Bd des Galeries
Contact details: +1 418-627-5800
Opening hours:
- Monday to Wednesday; Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Friday: 10 AM – 9 PM
Méga Parc in the Galeries de la Capitale mall is anything but your typical ice skating rink. Picture this: you’re skating in the middle of an indoor amusement park, with rides and attractions all around you.
It’s a fantastic spot for families, especially if some folks are more into roller coasters than gliding on ice. The rink has this cool, industrial vibe, surrounded by neon lights and a lively atmosphere that sets it apart from your standard outdoor rinks.
You can easily spend a day hopping between shopping, taking rides, and, of course, skating—all under one roof.
Pro tip:
Try to visit on a weekday if you can. Weekends get pretty packed with families and tourists, so going during off-peak hours lets you enjoy the ice and the amusement park with fewer crowds.
Colisée de Loretteville
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Address: 86 Bd des Étudiants
Contact details: +1 418-641-6119
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday: 4:30 PM – 10 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM – 10 PM
For a more local experience, Colisée de Loretteville is a great choice. It’s a no-frills arena with a focus on skating and hockey. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, and it’s not a place tourists tend to flock to, making it a favourite among locals.
The ice quality is excellent, and there’s something satisfying about skating in a traditional arena where the focus is purely on the sport.
It’s also a fun place to catch some local hockey games, as it’s often used by local leagues and teams. Whether you’re there to skate or spectate, it’s a community-centric experience.
Pro tip:
If you’re planning to skate, check the public skate schedule ahead of time. It tends to fill up with hockey practices and games, but if you time it right, you’ll have plenty of space to glide around.
Marcel-Bédard Arena
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Address: 655 Bd des Chutes
Contact details: +1 418-641-6109
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 11 PM
A true community rink, Marcel-Bédard Arena offers a welcoming environment that’s perfect for families and beginner skaters.
Parents often bring their little ones here to learn how to skate, and you’ll see a lot of friendly faces on the ice. The rink is very well-maintained, and it’s a great spot to bring the family for a fun, casual skating session.
During the holidays, this arena transforms into something a little more special, with festive decorations and extended hours for public skating. It’s one of those places where you can enjoy the essence of winter without the crowds or commercial feel of some of the more well-known rinks.
Pro tip:
Take advantage of their extended hours during the holidays.
Arena Réjean Lemelin
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Address: 1300 Rue Pompadour
Contact details: +1 418-624-7797
Opening hours:
- Tuesday: 3 PM – 5 PM
- Saturday: 12:25 PM – 1:15 PM
Arena Réjean Lemelin has a lot of hockey history packed into its walls. Named after the famous Quebec Nordiques goaltender, it’s more than just a place to skate—it’s where hockey culture comes alive.
Whether you’re lacing up your skates or catching a local game, there’s a certain energy here that you can’t help but feel. The arena has a classic vibe, and it’s well-loved by both skaters and hockey fans.
If you’re into hockey, this place is a great way to dive into the local scene. But even if you’re just there for a casual skate, it’s one of those spots where you get a real taste of Quebec’s sports culture.
Pro tip:
If you’re a hockey fan, try to coincide your visit with a local game or practice. It’s a great way to see the next generation of talent and experience Quebec’s deep love for the sport.