Skating in Thunder Bay

It has the magic and delight of renowned rinks like Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto or the Rockefeller Centre in New York, but this popular outdoor skating attraction is located on the Lake Superior waterfront in Thunder Bay, your gateway to outdoor winter experiences in Northwest Ontario.

So pack up your skates on your next visit to Thunder Bay this winter to enjoy the splendor and serenity of the outdoor skating rink at Prince Arthur’s Landing, an up-and-coming quintessential Thunder Bay experience. The artificial ice re-surfaced on a regular basis offers excellent conditions for a skater’s delight.

Situated in the heart of the new waterfront development of the Waterfront District, this outdoor artificial rink offers an intimate, tranquil atmosphere with the hustle and bustle of downtown Port Arthur in the backdrop. Skaters will marvel at the surrounding landscapes, including the beautiful Lake Superior shoreline with the famed Sleeping Giant visible in the distance, and the historic CN Train Station.

A Skating Experience Like No Other

The skating rink and Water Garden Pavilion are open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. These hours will remain in place until the end of March Break. Skating is completely free and provides a great way to enjoy a winter afternoon or evening outdoors.

Guests can change their skates in the warm comfort of The Lodge, a modern facility that is part of the new Water Pavilion. The Lodge features lockers to store boots and valuables requiring a loonie deposit that is refundable after use is finished.

The focal point of this modern skating facility features a fire pit centerpiece, surrounded with seating for guests to sit and warm up. The rink is equipped with night lighting and a sound system that add to the wow factor of this newer rink. There is also “free” Wi-Fi to keep visitors connected, and a concession window that sells snacks and beverages like hot chocolate. Use of the outdoor rink is strictly for skating - hockey sticks and pucks are not allowed.

Easy Access and Parking

The Pearl St. Entrance is open to the public for access to the Marina, along with the overpass off of Cumberland Street at Water Street. Free parking can be found in the park, while metered parking is offered in the Waterfront District and at the Heart of Harbour Parkade, both a short walk from the Marina.

Urban Experience in Natural Beauty

Prince Arthur’s Landing also ifatures upgrades to historical buildings like the Baggage Building and the stately CN Rail Station. The architectural details of such buildings speak to the maritime and industrial heritage of Thunder Bay, and its connection to its natural surroundings, “Superior by Nature”. Also be sure to see the unique public art displays throughout the park that accentuate the architecture and natural scenery of the Lake Superior shore.

Adjacent to the skating rink is the Water Garden Pavilion that is home to the Mariner’s Hall, an area featuring exhibits about the waterfront history, and a modern Restaurant with excellent views, Bight Restaurant & Bar. Bight is known for its great gourmet food options and comfortable ambiance.

Just across from the rink on the 2nd floor of the historic CN Station is Breakwater Taphouse. Serving local and regional craft beers and a selection of high-end pub fare, Breakwater offers unparalleled views of the lake.

Located nearby is the historical, two-story Baggage Building Art Centre, offering visitors a range of events and programs such as a Gift Gallery with a selection of items made by local artists and artisans, seasonal and community events, as well as monthly exhibits from featured artists.

Hours for the Baggage Building are Tuesday to Friday, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and weekends, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Stay and Play for A Weekend

The Waterfront District and the Bay & Algoma Business District are open for shopping or socializing throughout the winter season. The downtown shops, restaurants and bars all offer pleasant atmospheres, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a full afternoon or evening out after a skate at the waterfront.

plan your skating adventure in thunder bay today

Travellers looking for a place to stay, the Prince Arthur Waterfront Hotel & Suites is an excellent spot to reside for a weekend visit (book your room online), especially for guests looking for quick, easy access to the waterfront: the covered overpass into Prince Arthur’s Landing connects off the hotel parking lot. Similarly there are a number of other hotels and motels to choose from that are only a short drive to the waterfront.

So bring your friends, family and loved ones down to Prince Arthur’s Landing in Thunder Bay, Ontario, to twirl on the ice, enjoy some delicious food and make cherished winter memories, all while enjoying the spectacular views and natural surroundings of Thunder Bay’s waterfront.

For more information on the skating rink, call the Water Garden Pavillion at 684-2080.
For more information on upcoming exhibits and programs at the Baggage Building Arts Centre, visit the City of Thunder Bay Recreation and Culture webpage.
 

See you on the ice!

Discover More About Thunder Bay

Find Your True North

Sign up now to get stories, news, and travel tips

First name

Email address

Subscribe

We will never spam you and will never share your e-mail. Please see our privacy policy.

Thank you for subscribing!

Showing 'Edited Body' is no longer supported.