Pretty good! Ice conditions are nice, they use the zamboni a few times a day to keep it smooth. Its free, and has picnic tables all over to sit on. My complaint, however, is that they play the radio at a very high volume– almost too loud for a proper conversation. Skating is just fine without Nickleback and Honda dealership commercials all the time!
Rebecca C.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Ottawa, Canada
Great alternative to the canal – and it’s free! With skating on canal so variable it’s pretty awesome to have this option right downtown where the ice is pretty much guaranteed to be nice. I’m not a very good skater, but I had a great time at the rink. I have to say it was nicer than on the canal because the ice is smoother and there are fewer obstacles that tend to make me fall. Some great features of the rink are the music and always having a Beaver Tail nearby. I went during the day, so I didn’t experience the lights, but I have seen them when walking by before I think they’re just neat. Definitely a must-do free activity. 5⁄30
Jeff S.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Ottawa, Canada
As we enter gelid January, consider visiting the city’s newest downtown attraction: the Rink of Dreams. This is the rink’s second season, and while it will never rival the Rockefeller Center rink, it’s a very picturesque setting in the unique urban backdrop of City Hall’s sparkling lights. Optimum vistas are omnipresent when the sun has set: — Parliament Hill is lit up with thousands of Christmas lights. The Peace Tower and the towers blaze with coloured spotlights. — Confederation Park, where nearly every tree is lit up. — Brillant blue lights around the National War Monument. — Château Laurier — Convention Centre — Lord Elgin Hotel The 5-year old in me, delights in the LED lit boards. A first-class move that goes great with the festive lighting on the City Hall grounds. The Rink of Dreams is for all people — young and old, and best of all it’s completely gratuit!
Darren M.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Ottawa, Canada
This is an awesome addition to City Hall. The Rideau Canal Skateway has a short skate season but this venue is almost a guarantee from November to March(see the website for closure information due to weather). If you’re a local and especially if you’re coming from out of town and want to skate you now have at least this outdoor option in Ottawa and it’s free! There’s a Beavertails vendor setup here too!
