The Bentway image

The Bentway

City park Non profit organization Arts organization

One of the Most Reviewed City parks in Old Toronto


Address

250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3K9, Canada

Website

www.thebentway.ca

Contact

+1 416-304-0222

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (1.6K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: 10 am to 6 pm
  • Tuesday: 10 am to 6 pm
  • Wednesday: 10 am to 6 pm
  • Thursday: 10 am to 6 pm
  • Friday: 10 am to 6 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 6 pm
  • Sunday: 10 am to 6 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: skating (40) space (16) rink (15) Bentway (14) skate (12) skates (12) free (12) area (11) time (10) activities (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Annie S. 3 months ago on Google • 58 reviews New
    Amazing place to skate especially if you have your own skates and come late at night! Very fun outdoor trail with twists and turns. The colorful lighting displays also adds to its beauty. Tip: go after hours for less traffic!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ashok T. 2 years ago on Google
    An amazing place for art installations and exhibition with cool pieces. I loved rollerblading here in the summer and excited for ice skating this winter Update: Loved the skating in the winter🥶 Jan 2022
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cirrus S. 8 months ago on Google • 835 reviews
    Unique work with a public space that, despite its negatives, can serve positive purposes for the entire community. The way this space works is exceptional even by local standards. Unfortunately, it points to the fact that we won't get rid of the Gardiner Expressway anytime soon. However, this would help the city more than such projects, which rather try to hide the real problem.

  • 5/5 Jot D. 2 years ago on Google
    I rate this place 5 stars. No doubt this is a place for beginners as well as for pros. That’s my second time skating and I learned well. Crew is very supportive. You can get free skating shoes on every Thursday. There are two small spaces for you to change your shoes. For beginners please get hand warmers, they are incredible and keep your hand warm. There is a secret(you can put those warmers under your socks) 😜.Hurry up they are closing on Feb21.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Leee C. 3 months ago on Google • 189 reviews New
    Came here for the first time on New Year’s Day. It was busy as expected but as it got darker it got less busy. There is a decent size parking lot which was easy to get parking. There are clean washrooms with hot chocolate and snacks if you’d like. I didn’t personally try any of the snacks. There is lots of seating to put on your skates, but I would ensure to bring a knapsack to carry your shoes as there are no lockers. You can leave your shoes under the seats at your own risk. They offer skate rentals and skate sharpening, which was great and convenient because I required my skates to be sharpened. The staff could have been friendlier as I find some of them were a bit rude. However, I’m still giving five stars as that did not ruin my experience. They are beautiful lights above the skating rink and it’s such a city feeling skating there. It’s a fun date night.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kimia R. 4 months ago on Google • 117 reviews
    I absolutely loved the skating rink. The location is easy to find, and on a weekday around 1 it wasn’t crowded at all. The rink is big and the place id very cute. They have rentals, 12$ for adults for 2 hours which is a reasonable price. They also have washrooms and a small food place, only snacks tho. The washrooms were very close and very clean. There is plenty of places to sit. They dont offer a locker or anything to put your shoes. Overall it was a great experience and the best ice skating rink.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Muhamed N. 2 months ago on Google • 290 reviews New
    My experience at The Bentway ice skating rink in Toronto was a mixed bag. The thrill of gliding on ice in the heart of the city was undeniable, but certain aspects left room for improvement. The rental fee of $25 for skates appeared relatively steep, considering the standard offerings. The skates were serviceable but lacked that premium quality one might expect at this price point. Crowding was a noticeable issue. The rink often felt packed, making it challenging to enjoy a smooth and unobstructed skating experience. The limited space was evident, and maneuvering through the crowds required extra caution. While the ambiance was festive, and the cityscape added to the charm, I couldn't shake the feeling that a higher level of supervision from staff would be beneficial. This is especially crucial given the mix of skaters with varying skill levels. More attentive supervision could help prevent accidents and enhance the overall safety of the skating area. In conclusion, The Bentway ice skating experience was enjoyable, but the relatively high rental fee and overcrowding detracted from the overall satisfaction. With some adjustments, it has the potential to be a fantastic urban skating destination.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dutch W. 3 months ago on Google • 14 reviews New
    Really neat skating trail, especially in the evening, with colorful lights and music. My favorite of about 7 popular ice skating places we tried out in Toronto. It's under the Gardiner Expressway, so even if it rains or snows, you're mostly protected. The best thing is that it's completely free! Just bring your skates, put them on, and skate as long as you like. You can also rent skates. One other cool thing was that the staff changed the direction in which customers could skate. People almost always skate counter-clockwise, but from time to time the staff would tell customers to skate clockwise on the trail. Definitely appreciated by more seasoned skaters, because always skating in the same direction is boring.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paula M. 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely little place. There was a art market happening today. It’s well kept and clean. Parking meter and a great historic museum that is free of charge.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael M. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice boardwalk under the Gardiner Expressway where you can visit artisans and the Fort York Museum. Plenty of parking up and around the corner.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vicky G. 2 years ago on Google
    Perfect place for a photo shoot! I went there at noon on a Thursday which may explain why the place was pretty much empty. I would imagine it being far more crowded during the weekend, so just be mindful of that if you prefer avoiding gatherings - even outdoors. The current art installation is really fun to watch and reflect on.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Garry B. 10 months ago on Google
    The Bentway is an oasis of culture, art and activities for everyone. Adjacent to Fort York and tucked under the Gardiner Expressway, there’s peace and tranquilly and protection from the elements as well. In the winter it’s a great place to ice skate and summer brings roller skaters and skateboarders. Go to The Bentway’s website and check out all their year long activities.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Carmen Faye O. 3 months ago on Google • 3 reviews New
    Skating there is fun, not many people unlike Nathan Philips square but it could get really cold so you have to dress warm if you plan to stay longer.. You can find skaters of all ages there, so no need to worry about fitting in. There was even a 60yr old man trying to learn to skate and was using the skating aid which was free to use for everyone.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 vision 2 years ago on Google
    The hoops are nice art but cause a strange traffic mix with the roller skaters. I feel like this could have been thought out better. Otherwise, a very nice area, well designed and aesthetically consistent with the surrounding area.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kash P. 8 months ago on Google
    Went here on a roller skating date. I got to take great pictures of my date and I. There are informational corners throughout the place so keep an eye out. For roller skating you can bring your own or rent at the rental place nearby. Had a blast here!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mango Loco 6. 1 year ago on Google
    Nicely big outdoor ice skating rink. And it’s free! If you want to skate properly , come to this rink instead of the tiny ones around downtown Toronto. The ice is pretty ruff (not very smooth) but that can’t be helped on a public rink. Not an issue. Will be back often 😊
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carrie L. 1 year ago on Google
    Ice skating in the winter and art installations in the summer! Located under the gardiner, this space has been renovated and is very pedestrian friendly now. It leads to the fort york museum and the historic site. In the summer, sometimes there are pop up stalls selling a variety of goods. If you go to the far west end, there is also a stage/ performance area! Also, there are usually beverage booths available by the skating rink!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jackie W. 1 year ago on Google
    Fun ice skating part with music playing all the time. Skating is free and skates rental is 10 dollars. There are plenty of chairs around the rink to change shoes or take a quick rest between skating. At night, the lights are nice.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A D. 2 years ago on Google
    The Bentway under the Gardiner Expressway is a pubic space offering various games and activities. The Bentway utilizes the unused space in Downtown Toronto, Canada. Its skating and public trail are the most popular activities. I saw some Stand-alone stores, but they come and go. Cool place to try out some activities or just chill out and watch people skating.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tao J. 2 years ago on Google
    well organized place. it is a grem especially during summer time. Currently there are arts display for free. washroom open to public, free wifi as well.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yunus P. 2 years ago on Google
    Great place to be with something for everyone. Beautiful views of the city and the bentway just has an environment of its own… you gotta go and see for your self.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Jupiter M. 2 years ago on Google
    Expect to wait in line on a Sunday for at least 30 minutes. Staff are friendly and the place is clean. It doesn't get too crowded. They do clean the ice every hour and they have assisting devices for beginer skaters. There is a small snack bar and toilets.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mel L. 2 years ago on Google
    A great spot to see public art and to take in the joys of living in a metropolitan city: entertainment, good, art, community, under a massive concrete slab of highway... The Bentway programming is year in and year out, some of the best Toronto has to offer and almost always free!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Will R. 1 year ago on Google
    Weweni bizindan (listen carefully). Lots of seating scattered about. Lounging options abound. :) Incredible art installations. Come and see! Fully accessible.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Imran S. 2 months ago on Google • 122 reviews New
    I wasn't sure what to expect but The Bentway pleasantly surprised me with its beauty and charm. It is located under the Gardiner Expressway and the area comes alive with vibrant and colorful lights, creating a delightful ambiance. The music playing in the background adds to the overall experience. The crowd and the rough ice were minor drawbacks and despite the Zamboni's efforts, patches of uneven ice persisted. Nonetheless, the refrigerated rink offers an enjoyable skating environment. Skate rentals are also available on site and a small heated area provides a comforable area for rest and for putting on skates. Green P parking lot is also available and is located next to the skating trail. Overall it is a wonderful spot, perfect for outdoor skating for a fun family day out during the winter.

  • 5/5 Carla 2 months ago on Google • 46 reviews New
    The Bentway offers free skating lessons for kids and adults in January. The section is cordoned off so beginners can skate freely without getting intimidated by the speed/skill of seasoned skaters. There were around 5 instructors for a class of 20+ adult beginner students. Skate and helmet rentals are available for a fee. Don’t forget to bring an ID to be able to rent.

  • 5/5 Kathleen R. 7 months ago on Google • 29 reviews
    My first time ever to this place to check out the ube Festival. There were lots of people trying out the different Filipino dishes. The space itself was good. Dining and stall areas were cordoned off. I love how they made the space under the Bridge a recreational area, with a lot of green space. I hope this is what they’ll do for “dead” spaces … liven it up and bring nature back.

  • 4/5 Judy Z. 1 year ago on Google
    really nice place to go skating, they offer rental skates for just $5, there's different events and activities that are always ongoing. they have little spaces that are open that you can just step in, sit down and out your skates on but there's also a lot of seats and benches all around the place. there's no big ramp or stairs to get to the ice or seats around the ice so bonus for that. it's secluded from the traffic, it's nice and cozy in that sense but also pretty big space, long ice skating trail and since it's under the highway. you can see a bunch of downtown buildings in the skyline ehile your skating and for sure even nicer at night is definitely popular spot and it is bustling at times. there's a mix of all people and skill levels who go. a classic go to skating spot

  • 4/5 Yasmin S. 1 year ago on Google
    Rink is cute, but small. Rentals are reasonable. Please note there are no lockers (that we could find) and your shoes and belongings will be left unattended.

  • 5/5 Carol F. 1 year ago on Google
    A wonderful public corridor of art and public shared space to walk under the Gardiner. There's always new art installations, events held here, rollerskating and etc. Always tons of things to see here! Conveniently along the bus route and near The Ex, there's a lot of ways to get here. Lots of hosted events during summer and winter time.

  • 5/5 Karuna S. 10 months ago on Google
    Here held liberty village art crawl on Saturday June 10th. Wonderful music, art and food! Amazing experience!

  • 5/5 Maher J. 8 months ago on Google
    Cool area to host events and large space for big crowds.

  • 5/5 Mari 7 months ago on Google
    Great place, it’s got nice floor to rollerblade there as well!

  • 5/5 Alex H. 6 months ago on Google
    The Bentway is a unique and innovative public space in Toronto that has transformed what was once an underutilized area beneath the Gardiner Expressway into a thriving urban hub. The design and functionality of this space are impressive, featuring a combination of recreational areas, walking paths, and event spaces. It’s a versatile venue that hosts a variety of activities, from art installations to community events, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

  • 4/5 matti m. 2 years ago on Google
    Great little park full of interesting things but so much room for more. Really looking forward to seeing them develop more from here.

  • 5/5 Cheryl A. 2 years ago on Google
    The Bentway is such a cool mixed use space where people walk, dance and play under an urban highway. The art exhibitions along the Bentway are engaging and enjoyable. I had a blast roller skating.

  • 5/5 Sergio V. 3 years ago on Google
    Great utilization of the space, nice skating track in the winter, amazing activities and food vendors in the summer, walk my dog through here quite regularly, well lit at night although it can be lonely around there late at night. Great spot, don't miss out on fort york and lawn area just north of the bentway

  • 5/5 Tomasz 1 year ago on Google
    Probably one of the most interesting and cool ice skating rinks in downtown Toronto. It’s not a long rink path but certainly better than the overcrowded Nathan Philip’s Square rink. The Bentway also gets overcrowded sometimes but I think the crowds are spread apart a bit more. Some days there is free hot chocolate BUT I do not recommend drinking it - it tastes absolutely disgusting. On Fridays you can buy hot chocolate and some snacks inside and it isn’t too expensive. Some days also have free skate rentals! So make sure to checkout the Bentway website.

  • 5/5 L 1 year ago on Google
    We haven't been skating in a while 😭 so after a long long wait hoping it is the end of any more covid scare (or anything else remotely like it), we are out enjoying life. The staff are very friendly and there's hot chocolate and snacks available like chips, dad's cookies, etc. They have a donation stand so that you can share the warmth which I really like. The washrooms were clean enough but cleaner than I expected for the time of day. It wasn't too busy either. Parking is available as well. Ice skating is probably one of my most favorite winter activities on account of it being so seemingly easy. The playing field is levelled and falling is part of the fun for the experienced person and otherwise 🤣 and everyone seems so understanding here. Ice skating is also super accessible compared to other winter activities like finding a ski resort for other fun stuff to do in the snow. This rink brought back fond memories of my childhood - lacing up those white skates and enjoying a blissful time on the ice under the stars.


Call +1 416-304-0222 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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