Ethan BrownIf you’ve always wanted to lace up some roller skates and experience a disco dancefloor or a peaceful stroll on wheels, we’ve got great news! Ottawa is home to some of our favourite roller skating spots!
Whether you’re a veteran on the floor or someone who’s looking to pick up a new hobby, these places we listed below will let you experience countless hours of fun!
4 Wheelies Ottawa Roller Skating Center
Website: https://4wheelies.com
Address: 1101 Baxter Rd, Ottawa, ON K2C 3Z3, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-665-4444
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday: 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
4 Wheelies is the ultimate throwback experience, bringing back those retro disco skating rinks to life. Complete with bright neon lights, mirrorballs and funky music, this place will force you to get your groove on, as you glide gracefully across the floor.
The place itself is quite huge for an indoor rink as well, giving skaters the freedom to skate without worrying about bumping into other guests. For instance, beginners tend to hold the handrails on the side of the rink while experts will blast their way in the middle.
Plus, the size lets them glide around the floor at their own pace. So whether you’re one to race with your friends or enjoy a nice funky dance with a date, this is the perfect place for you!
| Pro tip: If you want to learn the ropes of roller skating from experts, try enrolling in one of their foundation classes! You can find the schedule and rates for these courses here, and the best part is that they also offer classes for kids! |
Vincent Massey Park
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Website: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/vincent-massey-park
Address: Heron Rd, Ottawa, ON K1V 2E4, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-239-5000
Operating hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Vincent Massey Park is one of the best spots for roller skating in the urban setting of Ottawa. It features scenic views and most importantly, various pathways that can cater to roller skaters, cyclists, joggers, skateboarders and more.
The aforementioned views feature towering trees and glimpses of one of the capital’s bustling neighbourhoods—a fascinating combination. Meanwhile, the pathways you’ll find here are either made out of pavement, wood or even plain grass,
However, when skating here, make sure to stay within the designated trail to avoid colliding with visitors who are there to simply take a stroll.
| Pro tip: Make sure to pack some snacks when stopping by this spot! It features several picnic tables that are perfect for catching your breath after exploring the park in your trusty pair of roller skates. |
Rideau Canal
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Address: Rideau Canal, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Trail skating is one of the best ways to roller skate because it lets you explore the great outdoors! This being said, one of the best places for trail skating is Rideau Canal, as it offers fantastic views and a great paved pathway that’s perfect for roller skates.
One of the best things about roller skating here is that it’s completely free since it’s a public area. All you have to do is bring your pair of rollerblades and you’re golden!
However, being a public space is a double-edged sword because this means that you’ll also have to share the space with other visitors as well. Don’t worry though, as everyone here is respectful of each other’s space, whether they be joggers, cyclists or anything in between.
| Pro tip: Be sure to stop by during December because come wintertime, this spot becomes one of the most magical ice skating rinks in Ottawa! Furthermore, bring your helmet with you, especially if you’re a beginner. |
Westboro Beach
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Address: Westboro Beach, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Westboro Beach should be on your itinerary if you want to experience one of the most scenic rollerskating experiences of your life. It’s not an exaggeration when we say that this trail skating spot looks straight out of a movie, with beautiful views of the river and vast grasslands.
You can also stop by the nearby Britannia Beach if you want to add more panoramic views during your peaceful ride.
Lastly. there are also some cafes scattered across this trail, which make for great stopovers after a long ride.
| Pro tip: If you want to have all these nature views to yourself and prefer a more peaceful roller skating experience, we recommend visiting early in the morning before the crowds arrive. |
The Yard
Website: https://theyardottawa.com
Address: 265 City Centre Ave, Ottawa, ON K1R 6P1, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-230-3000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
The Yard is the quintessential skatepark for Ottawans who are looking to hone their roller skating, skateboarding and even cycling skills. It’s fully decked out with ramps, rails, half pipes, etc. that lets its visitors pull off the sickest tricks.
This spot is primarily designed for skateboarders and BMX riders, but don’t worry! Roller skaters are still welcome in this massive indoor extreme park.
Furthermore, it caters to both beginners and experts by featuring obstacle courses that feature different levels of difficulty—pretty cool!
| Pro tip: If you’re looking to get your kids started on their skating skills while they’re young, you can enrol them in one of the park’s classes! |
