
Olympic Speed Skating Oval
Experience the thrill of the 'fastest ice on Earth' at this historic Olympic Speed Skating Oval, a hub for elite athletes and public recreation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more ice time

Olympic Speed Skating Oval
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more ice time

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thrill of the 'fastest ice on Earth' at this historic Olympic Speed Skating Oval, a hub for elite athletes and public recreation.
"This has got to be in my top 3 favorite places! They also host live speed skating events as well!"

🎯 Arrive Early for Rentals
Rental services can close without notice. Arrive 30 mins before opening to secure skates. :ticket:
⛸️ Bring Your Own Skates
Ensure a comfortable fit and avoid rental issues by bringing your own skates. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Fastest Ice on Earth'
Experience the thrill of skating on ice renowned for its speed and world-record potential.

Witness Live Speed Skating Events
Catch elite athletes competing in national and international speed skating competitions.

Summer Skating & Family Fun
Enjoy public skating sessions even in warmer months for a unique family outing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Public Skating
Skate Rentals & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Rentals
Rental services can close without notice. Arrive 30 mins before opening to secure skates. :ticket:
⛸️ Bring Your Own Skates
Ensure a comfortable fit and avoid rental issues by bringing your own skates. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Dress in Layers
The ice can be cold, even indoors. Wear warm layers for a comfortable skating experience. :cloud:
📸 Capture the Moment
The Olympic Oval offers stunning backdrops for photos, especially during sunset. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Rentals
Rental services can close without notice. Arrive 30 mins before opening to secure skates. :ticket:
⛸️ Bring Your Own Skates
Ensure a comfortable fit and avoid rental issues by bringing your own skates. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Dress in Layers
The ice can be cold, even indoors. Wear warm layers for a comfortable skating experience. :cloud:
📸 Capture the Moment
The Olympic Oval offers stunning backdrops for photos, especially during sunset. :camerawithflash:
💰 Snack Shop Costs
Be aware that snacks and hot chocolate at the onsite shop can be pricey. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Olympic Speed Skating Oval for its iconic status and the thrill of skating on world-class ice, especially during live events. The 'fastest ice on Earth' provides a unique experience, and summer skating offers family fun. However, some note issues with inconsistent skate rental availability and the expense of onsite snacks.
"We picked up the Lake Placid Marathon bib here at the Olympic Speed Skating Oval, which is a really cool historical area in Lake Placid. It is also where the start and finish of the race happens, so it doesn't get much easier than this for racers and spectators. The organizers of this Marathon do a really good job, I can see why it's the 20th year and still going strong. The race was challenging but great!"
A R
"A beautiful place to skate during the winter. Get there early because the line gets very long. I’d say get at least 30 min before it opens. We were the first ones to skate and it was so much fun. You can bring your own skates or you can rent. Not much seating area and you kind of leave your stuff to the side. There are bathrooms there. There’s also a hot chocolate and snack shop. Just be mindful it will be expensive."
Jane and Kyle
"This is one of my favorite places to ice skate. I’ve ice skated on outdoor rinks all along the east coast US and this has got to be in my top 3 favorite places! They also host live speed skating events as well!"
Josh Kaz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to Lake Placid can involve flying into New York, then to Burlington, followed by a 2-hour drive. Travelers unfamiliar with winter driving conditions should consider this. For those driving, be prepared for potential snow and ice on the roads.
The Olympic Oval in Calgary is located at the University of Calgary and is accessible via public transit. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times.
Parking availability can vary, especially during events. It's advisable to check the specific oval's website for the most current parking information and any associated fees.
Yes, the Olympic Oval can be used for rollerblading during specific times, particularly in the summer. Check the schedule for public skating and other activities to confirm availability.
If visiting in winter, especially for events like the Lake Placid Marathon, be prepared for cold weather and potentially icy conditions. Driving in snow and ice requires caution.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For public skating, it's highly recommended to arrive early, at least 30 minutes before opening, as lines can get long. While advance tickets might not always be necessary for general skating, checking the official website for event schedules and ticketing is wise.
Olympic Oval skating hours vary by season and day. It's best to check the official website for the most current 'Olympic Oval skating hours' or 'Olympic Oval public skating hours' as they can change.
Admission fees for public skating can vary. Rental skates are also available for an additional cost. Check the venue's website for the latest pricing information on 'Olympic Oval skating costs'.
Yes, skate rentals are typically available at the Olympic Oval. However, it's advisable to confirm their availability beforehand, as rental services have been reported as closed unexpectedly.
The Olympic Oval frequently hosts speed skating events, from local competitions to international World Cups. Check the 'Olympic Oval skating schedule' for upcoming events.
🎫 ⛸️ Onsite Experience
The 'fastest ice on Earth' refers to the exceptionally smooth and well-maintained ice surface at the Olympic Oval, designed to facilitate peak performance for speed skaters and break world records.
Public skating sessions offer a chance to enjoy the ice. Expect a lively atmosphere, though seating is limited, and personal belongings are often left to the side. The ice can sometimes be a bit wet.
Yes, there is typically a snack shop offering hot chocolate and other refreshments. However, be prepared for potentially higher prices.
Absolutely! Bringing your own skates is recommended for comfort and to avoid any issues with rental availability.
While primarily known for speed skating, the Olympic Oval can host other ice-related events, including figure skating and even triathlons like IRONMAN Lake Placid.
📸 📸 Photography
The vast ice surface itself is iconic. For scenic shots, consider the areas around the oval, especially during sunset for a beautiful backdrop. Capturing the architecture of the oval can also yield striking images.
Generally, photography is allowed during events, but always check the specific event's rules regarding flash photography or professional equipment. Capturing the speed and intensity of the athletes is a popular choice.
While casual photography is usually fine, professional shoots or extensive filming might require permits. It's best to inquire with the venue management if you plan on extensive photography.
Wide-angle shots showcasing the scale of the oval, action shots of skaters in motion, and close-ups of skate blades on ice can be very effective.
Experiment with different angles and times of day. The 'ASMR' ice sounds can inspire creative visual interpretations. Look for reflections on the ice or the dynamic lines of the track.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏅 Aspiring Athletes & Fans
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Olympic Oval
Beyond elite competition, these ovals foster community engagement through public skating sessions, often extending their use into warmer months. This dual role allows them to be both a hub for professional athletes and a recreational space for families and individuals. The experience of skating on such a historically significant and high-performance surface is unique, offering a tangible connection to the world of elite speed skating.
Many visitors are drawn to the Olympic Oval not just to skate, but to witness the raw speed and dedication of athletes. Videos often highlight dramatic finishes and strategic moves during competitions, showcasing the intense nature of the sport. The sheer power and grace of speed skaters, combined with the impressive scale of the oval, make for a captivating spectacle.
Public Skating Experience: What to Expect
It's important to be prepared for the environment. The ice, even indoors, can feel cool, so dressing in layers is recommended. Personal belongings are typically stored to the side of the rink, and seating can be limited. Some reviews mention the ice surface being a bit wet at times, which is common in indoor rinks. Despite these minor points, the experience of skating on a professional-grade oval is often described as a highlight, with many visitors ranking it among their favorite ice skating spots.
For those looking for a more active experience, some ovals also offer opportunities for rollerblading during the summer months, extending the usability of the facility year-round. The chance to skate at night with a sunset view adds another layer of appeal for a family outing.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit