Olympic Plaza
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Olympic Plaza

4.4
·5k reviews·Calgary, Canada

A historic 1988 Olympic venue being redeveloped into a modern public space with seasonal ice skating and event capabilities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter mornings/afternoons

Sunny skating, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Olympic Plaza

Olympic Plaza

Best Time

Winter mornings/afternoons

Sunny skating, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 1988 Olympic venue being redeveloped into a modern public space with seasonal ice skating and event capabilities.

4.4
(5k reviews)

"A gorgeous spot in the heart of downtown, it's a shame to hear they will be scrapping it."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Event Schedules

Confirm event dates and times before visiting, as activities vary seasonally.

Skate Rental Info

Skate rentals are typically available during rink operating hours.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.4 · 4,892 reviews

Type

City Park

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Winter Ice Rink

Winter Ice Rink

Olympic Plaza

Glide across a vast 17,000 sq ft rink with stunning city views, a nod to its Olympic past.

TikTokInstagram+3
Summer Festivals

Summer Festivals

Olympic Plaza

Experience vibrant cultural events like Fiesta Latino and Canada Day celebrations in this downtown hub.

TikTokInstagram+1
Olympic History

Olympic History

Olympic Plaza

This site hosted medal ceremonies for the 1988 Winter Olympics, adding a layer of historical significance.

TikTokReddit
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Olympic Plaza's Future

Olympic Plaza is undergoing a significant $70 million redesign, with construction slated to begin in 2027 and completion expected in 2028. While the current plaza is being demolished, the new design promises water features that transform into ice rinks, more green spaces, and a community pavilion. Instagram+2

Seasonal Activities

Historically, Olympic Plaza has been a hub for seasonal events, including summer festivals and a popular winter ice rink. While the rink was open in early 2024, future winter activities will depend on the new plaza's design and construction schedule. TikTokInstagram+3

Best Times

When
Winter mornings/afternoons
Why
Sunny skating, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer weekends
Why
Vibrant festivals
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Downhill Karting by Skyline🛞 📍 Winsport Canada Olympic Park, 88 Canada, Olympic Rd #calgary #fypシ #canada_life🇨🇦 #local
@kimvalerio26
47K likes • 940.6K views

Check Event Schedules

Confirm event dates and times before visiting, as activities vary seasonally. TikTokInstagram+1

Skate Rental Info

Skate rentals are typically available during rink operating hours. TikTok+1

skate rentals are available 4 to 9 pm Monday to Friday and 2 to 9 pm Saturday and Sunday ⛸️🎄 #yyc #calgary #holidays #yycholidays #christmas
@aniaboniecka
31.6K likes • 391.1K views
Happy Canada Day! 🇨🇦 Celebrate in the heart of Calgary, with events at Olympic Plaza for the whole family to enjoy! 🎥: @proflycalgary #exploredowntownyyc #downtowncalgary #yyc #calgary #downtown #canada #alberta #canadaday
downtowncalgary
6K likes • 181.8K views

Downtown Access

Easily accessible via LRT and located near City Hall, making it convenient to reach. Reddit

Demolition Awareness

The plaza is currently being demolished for a major redesign; check status before visiting. TikTokInstagram+1

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! 🎄💫 Calgary is all decked up to celebrate Christmas. 📍 Olympic Plaza, Calgary 🇨🇦 #christmasdecor #calgaryalberta #christmasiscoming #christmaslights
thakralphotography
10K likes • 490.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedules

Confirm event dates and times before visiting, as activities vary seasonally. TikTokInstagram+1

Skate Rental Info

Skate rentals are typically available during rink operating hours. TikTok+1

Downtown Access

Easily accessible via LRT and located near City Hall, making it convenient to reach. Reddit

Demolition Awareness

The plaza is currently being demolished for a major redesign; check status before visiting. TikTokInstagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.4
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Olympic Plaza is remembered fondly as a fantastic public space that hosted vibrant summer events and a popular winter ice rink, offering great city views. While its demolition for a redesign is noted, many hope the new plaza will preserve its community spirit and historical significance. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

"This is a fantastic public space.

The events all summer, the skating rink in the winter.

It’s a gorgeous spot in the heart of downtown and it’s a shame to hear they will be scrapping it in place of an extension of another building.

Hopefully the plan for design somehow preserves some of this spot and doesn’t erase it entirely.

This is a city that spent a fortune on a blue ring on the outskirts of town though so who knows.

Hoping for the best!"

Jon Chamberlain

"This is a really nice public space. Enjoy it while is still available for the public.

There are events every weekend on December but not skating rink this winter.

It’s a great spot in the heart of downtown and it’s a shame that they will be close it in place of an extension of another building like don't we have buildings enough already?!"

Karina Santos

"A beautiful park next to the city hall with multiple events throughout the different seasons from gathering to show respect, concerts, art display to staking. This also allows for some landscape viewing in between busy downtown towers. Also next to LRT and convenient to visit. Recommended to visit at day time despite the crowed."

Mugdho Aosaf

What People Like

Vibrant summer events
Popular winter ice rink
Great city views

What People Dislike

Demolition for redesign

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Olympic Plaza is conveniently located in downtown Calgary and is easily accessible via public transit. The nearest LRT station is City Hall, making it a breeze to reach from various parts of the city. Reddit

While specific parking details for the current demolition phase might vary, downtown Calgary offers numerous parking garages and street parking options. It's advisable to check real-time parking availability apps or websites before your visit. Reddit

Yes, if you are in the downtown core, Olympic Plaza is a walkable destination. It's situated near City Hall and other central attractions. Reddit

For events, especially during peak times, taking the LRT to City Hall station is highly recommended to avoid downtown traffic and parking hassles. TikTokReddit

The new Olympic Plaza design is intended to improve accessibility. Historically, the plaza has been a public space, and efforts are usually made to ensure access. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General access to Olympic Plaza itself is typically free. However, specific ticket requirements may apply for special events or performances held at the plaza. TikTokInstagram

As the plaza is currently undergoing demolition and redesign, public access hours are not applicable. The new plaza's hours will be announced upon completion. Instagram+1

Historically, there has been a small admission fee for public skating at the Olympic Plaza ice rink, with rentals available for an additional cost. TikTokReddit

Construction for the new Olympic Plaza is set to begin in 2027, with an expected completion date in 2028. Instagram

Entry restrictions might apply during specific ticketed events or performances. It's best to check the event details for any specific guidelines. TikTokInstagram

🎫 ⛸️ Onsite Experience

Historically, Olympic Plaza offered ice skating in winter and hosted various cultural festivals and events in the summer. The new design will feature water features that become ice rinks and more public gathering spaces. TikTokInstagram+3

Yes, Olympic Plaza has historically featured a popular outdoor ice rink during the winter months. The new design will also include water features that transform into an ice rink. TikTokInstagramReddit+3

Olympic Plaza has hosted a wide range of events, including Canada Day celebrations, Fiesta Latino, concerts, art displays, and public gatherings. TikTokInstagram+2

The redesign includes water features that convert to ice rinks, more trees and patios, a community pavilion, and improved accessibility. Instagram

Historically, Olympic Plaza has been family-friendly, especially during events and ice skating seasons. The new design aims to enhance its appeal for all ages. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The plaza offers great city skyline views, especially at night with the lights. The ice rink in winter and festival atmospheres in summer provide dynamic photo opportunities. Instagram+2

Yes, Olympic Plaza is known for its beautiful night photography potential, particularly with the city lights and any seasonal decorations like Christmas lights. Instagram+1

Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and local bylaws. It's essential to check current regulations before flying a drone in the downtown area. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful lighting. Nighttime is also popular for capturing the city's ambiance. Instagram+1

While not explicitly marked for photography, the plaza's connection to the 1988 Olympics and its role in various community events offer historical context for photos. Reddit

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