★★★★★ 4.7(10,000 reviews)9.0 km from hotel~15 min drive
The world's largest naturally frozen skating rink stretches 7.8 kilometres through the heart of Ottawa, from the National Arts Centre to Dow's Lake. Free to skate, dotted with warming huts and BeaverTails stands, the Skateway is an iconic Canadian winter experience recognized by Guinness World Records.
Rideau Canal Skateway Season is one of Ottawa's signature annual events, drawing visitors from across Canada and beyond.
Book your hotel early — Ottawa festivals fill up fast, and Adam's Airport Inn is just 7 minutes from the terminal with complimentary breakfast and free parking for direct guests.
Getting There from Adam’s Airport Inn
15 min
From Adam's Airport Inn, take the Airport Parkway to Highway 417 — it's about 15 minutes by car. Paid parking at Fifth Avenue and Dow's Lake.
Why Guests Love This
The Rideau Canal Skateway is a bucket-list Canadian experience and Ottawa’s most iconic winter attraction. Skating 7.8 kilometres through the heart of the capital — past Parliament Hill, under historic bridges, and alongside century-old buildings — is something that simply cannot be replicated anywhere else. The warming huts and BeaverTails stands along the route mean you can take breaks as often as you like, and the entire experience is free. Guests at Adam’s Airport Inn frequently cite the Skateway as the highlight of a winter Ottawa visit, whether they are seasoned skaters or first-timers renting skates on the spot.
The Skateway opens when ice conditions are safe, typically in January, and remains open through late February or early March depending on temperatures. Opening dates vary each year and sections may close temporarily during warm spells. The NCC website and hotline (613-239-5234) provide daily ice condition updates.
Is skating on the Rideau Canal free?
Yes. Skating on the Rideau Canal Skateway is completely free. There is no admission fee, no ticket, and no time limit. You only pay if you rent skates, purchase food from vendors along the route, or use the change rooms. The NCC maintains the ice and provides free warming huts with benches along the 7.8 km route.
Can I rent skates at the Rideau Canal?
Yes. Several rental locations operate along the canal, including at Dow’s Lake and near the National Arts Centre entrance. Rentals typically cost $15–25 and include skates and a helmet. Arrive early on weekends as rental inventory can run low by mid-afternoon. Bringing your own skates avoids any wait.
What should I wear for skating on the Rideau Canal?
Dress in warm, wind-resistant layers. Temperatures on the ice feel colder than the forecast due to wind exposure. Wear thermal base layers, a warm jacket, insulated gloves, a toque, and a neck warmer or scarf. Helmets are strongly recommended, especially for children and beginners. Sunglasses help with ice glare on sunny days.
How do I get to the Rideau Canal Skateway from Ottawa Airport?
The Rideau Canal Skateway runs through central Ottawa, with entry points at Dow’s Lake and near the National Arts Centre, approximately 10–12 km from Ottawa International Airport (YOW). Stay at Adam’s Airport Inn (7 minutes from the terminal) and drive about 15–20 minutes via the Airport Parkway. Dow’s Lake has the largest parking area, though it fills quickly on weekends.
Staying in Ottawa?
Adam’s Airport Inn is just 15 minutes from Rideau Canal Skateway Season. Complimentary breakfast and up to 14 days of free parking included with every stay.