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The Bentway Toronto

4.6
·2k reviews·Toronto, Canada

An innovative public space beneath Toronto's Gardiner Expressway, known for its winter skate trail, public art, and community events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter Evenings

Magical ice skating under lights

CrowdMedium
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lit up at night

The Bentway Toronto

Best Time

Winter Evenings

Magical ice skating under lights

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An innovative public space beneath Toronto's Gardiner Expressway, known for its winter skate trail, public art, and community events.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"The Bentway offers a magical urban escape, especially with its iconic skate trail under the city lights."

Vertical photo
TIP

⛸️ Free Skate Rentals

Score free skate rentals on Thursday evenings! Perfect for a spontaneous skate session.

🎓 Beginner Skater Friendly

The Bentway offers aids for learners, making it a great spot for beginner ice skaters.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bentway Skate Trail

The Bentway Skate Trail

Beneath the Gardiner Expressway

Glide under the city lights on a unique urban ice rink. Perfect for all skill levels!

Art Installations & Exhibitions

Art Installations & Exhibitions

Various locations at The Bentway

Discover captivating public art that transforms this urban space. Always something new to see!

Community Events & Programming

Community Events & Programming

The Bentway public space

Experience vibrant local events, from markets to performances, fostering a lively atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Winter Wonderland: Skating & More

Experience the magic of The Bentway's winter season! The popular skate trail is a must-do, with free skate rentals on select evenings. Check their schedule for special events and art installations.

Beyond the Ice: Year-Round Fun

While famous for its winter skating, The Bentway hosts diverse events year-round. From art exhibits to community gatherings, there's always something happening beneath the Gardiner Expressway. Plan your visit around their event calendar.

Best Times

When
Winter Evenings
Why
Magical ice skating under lights
Crowd
Medium
When
Thursday Evenings
Why
Free skate rentals available
Crowd
Medium
When
Event Days
Why
Unique programming & lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Bentway Skate Trail now open! ⛸️ #todotoronto #toronto #IceSkating #christmas #torontodateideas #torontotiktok #torontolife
@todotoronto
23.8K likes • 356.5K views

⛸️ Free Skate Rentals

Score free skate rentals on Thursday evenings! Perfect for a spontaneous skate session. TikTok

🎓 Beginner Skater Friendly

The Bentway offers aids for learners, making it a great spot for beginner ice skaters. Reddit

PSA: free skate rentals every thursday evening at @thebentway !! #toronto #torontothingstodo #torontoactivities #IceSkating
@elliebolts
18.6K likes • 245.5K views
APPLICATIONS OPEN! Our next event may seem far away but it’s closer than you think! Join us November 1st @thebentway for the 12th annual Toronto Art Crawl Christmas Market! Space is selling out quickly. Apply online in seconds at torontoartcrawl.com!
torontoartcrawl
0 likes • 2.5K views

⏰ Check Closing Times

The skate trail has specific closing hours, often around 9 PM. Plan accordingly! Reddit

🎨 Explore Art Installations

Don't just skate; take time to admire the rotating public art that enhances the space. TikTok

Toronto tiene 🔥 planes este finde: 🎉 Desfile Hispano/Latino + Fiesta de Otoño 🍕🍺 Pizza y cerveza gratis en The Bentway 💃🎶 Festival de Tango con campeones mundiales 🐟🌿 Aventuras del salmón en Mississauga 🏛️🚶 Recorridos históricos con ROMWalks ¿Con cuál te quedas? 👀 #TorontoWeekend #TorontoEvents #NuevoEnToronto #mexicanosentoronto#TorontoLatinos #latinosentoronto #fyp #toronto
nuevoentoronto
52 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⛸️ Free Skate Rentals

Score free skate rentals on Thursday evenings! Perfect for a spontaneous skate session. TikTok

🎓 Beginner Skater Friendly

The Bentway offers aids for learners, making it a great spot for beginner ice skaters. Reddit

⏰ Check Closing Times

The skate trail has specific closing hours, often around 9 PM. Plan accordingly! Reddit

🎨 Explore Art Installations

Don't just skate; take time to admire the rotating public art that enhances the space. TikTok

📅 Event Schedule

Visit their website for a full calendar of events, from markets to festivals. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about The Bentway's unique urban setting and its vibrant winter ice skating experience. The free skate rentals on Thursdays and beginner-friendly aids are frequently praised. While the space is generally well-loved, some find parking challenging and wish for more permanent food options.

"Smashing IT!

The Bentway! It's a wonderful experience and unique social gathering of like-minded people.

The space and the energy of The Bentway are very uplifting.

What's great about this space is that it's also connected with Garrison Crossing, Stanley Park, and Old Fort York, so there's so much to see and do.

Oftentimes, The Bentway has some amazing activities to see and partake in as well.

So if you're looking to go take a stroll, why not head on out to THE BENTWAY.

ENJOY!"

Sandi Cole

"The Bentway is located right under the Gardiner Expressway. It’s close in proximity to the Old Fort York. It’s a public space where events take place like Food events.

During winter, one can ice skate on the Bentway trail. During summer, one can roller skate on that same trail. During Friday evenings, one can learn to skate. Please check their website for more information like where to park, what TTC bus to take there and what time their washrooms are open to the public. I believe it’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays."

M G

"I visited for the Camp Milk Up Ontario, which was a nice little experience. I sat and relaxed a bit. I know they have these events every year, so everyone should check it out if you can"

Nirvana R. Bhagoo

What People Like

Unique urban skate trail
Free Thursday skate rentals
Public art installations

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Occasional food scarcity

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Bentway is conveniently located beneath the Gardiner Expressway. You can reach it via public transit, with several streetcar and bus routes nearby. It's also accessible by bike and on foot from surrounding neighborhoods like Fort York. Parking is limited, so public transport is often recommended. TikTok

Yes, The Bentway is easily accessible by TTC. Several streetcar lines run along nearby streets, and it's a short walk from various bus routes. Check the TTC website for the most up-to-date route information. TikTok

Parking near The Bentway can be challenging. There are some paid parking lots in the vicinity, but they can fill up quickly, especially during events. Consider public transit or ride-sharing services for a more convenient experience. TikTok

The Bentway's paved pathways are generally stroller-friendly, making it accessible for families with young children. The open space allows for easy navigation. TikTok

Absolutely! The Bentway is bike-friendly, with bike racks available. It's a great destination for a cycling outing, especially with the Martin Goodman Trail nearby. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to The Bentway is free! You can explore the public space and enjoy many of its installations without a ticket. However, specific ticketed events may occur, so always check their schedule. TikTok

Access to the ice trail itself is free. You only need to pay if you need to rent skates. TikTok

Skate rentals are available for a fee. However, on Thursday evenings, skate rentals are often free, making it a fantastic deal! TikTok

The Bentway's hours vary depending on the season and events. The skate trail typically closes around 9 PM. It's best to check their official website for the most current operating hours. Reddit

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own skates to use on the ice trail. This is a great option if you have your own and want to save on rental fees. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Bentway hosts a variety of activities, including art exhibitions, public art installations, community events, markets, and performances. It's a dynamic space that transforms throughout the year. TikTok

Restroom facilities are typically available at The Bentway, especially during the winter season when the skate trail is open. Check their website or signage on-site for exact locations. TikTok

Yes, The Bentway is considered beginner-friendly. They often provide 'skate-mates' or similar aids to help new skaters maintain balance and confidence on the ice. Reddit

The Bentway features a diverse range of public art, from large-scale sculptures to interactive installations. The art is often site-specific and changes periodically, offering a fresh experience with each visit. TikTok

The Bentway is a public space that hosts various community and private events. Information on booking or hosting an event can usually be found on their official website. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

During the winter season and special events, food vendors are often present at The Bentway, offering warm drinks and snacks. It's best to check their event schedule for specific vendor information. TikTok

Generally, bringing your own food and non-alcoholic beverages is permitted in public spaces like The Bentway. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of your surroundings and clean up after yourself. TikTok

Yes, the area surrounding The Bentway has a growing number of restaurants and cafes, particularly in the nearby Fort York and King West neighborhoods. You'll find a variety of dining options to suit different tastes and budgets. TikTok

While there might not be a permanent cafe, pop-up cafes or food trucks are common during events and the winter skating season. Keep an eye out for these temporary offerings. TikTok

Food offerings at The Bentway events can vary widely, from seasonal treats like hot chocolate and churros during winter to diverse cuisines from local food trucks at festivals. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The unique architecture of the Gardiner Expressway provides a dramatic backdrop. Capture shots of the skate trail at night, the public art installations, and the city skyline peeking through. TikTok

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged at The Bentway. It's a visually interesting space with plenty of opportunities for creative shots. TikTok

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light. However, the skate trail at night, illuminated by lights, is also incredibly photogenic. TikTok

Drone usage in urban areas like The Bentway is often subject to strict regulations. It's advisable to check with local authorities and The Bentway management regarding any drone photography policies before flying. TikTok

For professional photoshoots, it's recommended to contact The Bentway management in advance to inquire about any necessary permits or guidelines. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bentway is a fantastic destination for families! The Skate Trail is a highlight, and the availability of skate aids makes it perfect for little ones learning to skate. Reddit The open, paved space is also great for strollers and for kids to explore safely. TikTok

Keep an eye on their event schedule for family-friendly programming, which often includes markets and activities. During winter, you might find food vendors offering warm treats like hot chocolate, perfect for warming up after skating. TikTok

👫 Couples & Date Nights

For a unique date night, The Bentway shines, especially during its winter skating season. Gliding hand-in-hand under the city lights is incredibly romantic. TikTok Consider visiting on a Thursday evening for free skate rentals to make it even more budget-friendly. TikTok

Beyond skating, explore the rotating art installations together, or check their calendar for special evening events like markets or live music. Grabbing a warm drink from a vendor or a nearby cafe can complete the perfect urban date. TikTok

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

The Bentway offers a unique canvas for public art. Explore the diverse and often thought-provoking installations that are integrated into the urban landscape beneath the Gardiner Expressway. TikTok The space frequently hosts art crawls and exhibitions, providing a dynamic cultural experience. TikTok

Check their schedule for specific art events and consider visiting during different times of the year to see how the art and atmosphere evolve. It's a great spot to discover emerging artists and engage with art in an unconventional setting. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Bentway Skate Trail: A Winter Gem

The Bentway's Skate Trail is a signature winter attraction, transforming the space beneath the Gardiner Expressway into a vibrant hub of activity. This unique urban rink offers a memorable experience for skaters of all levels. It's particularly popular for its night skating, where the city lights and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere. TikTok

For those new to skating or looking for extra support, The Bentway is known for providing skate aids or 'skate-mates,' which are invaluable for beginners trying to find their balance. Reddit This inclusive approach makes it a welcoming spot for families and individuals who might otherwise be hesitant to try ice skating. Remember to check the operating hours, as the trail typically closes around 9 PM. Reddit

Beyond the ice, the skate trail often hosts special events and programming during the winter months, adding to the festive ambiance. Keep an eye out for themed nights or community gatherings that enhance the overall experience. TikTok

Art and Culture Under the Expressway

The Bentway is more than just an ice rink; it's a dynamic public art venue that showcases a rotating collection of installations and exhibitions. These artistic interventions breathe life into the often-overlooked space beneath the Gardiner Expressway, turning it into an engaging cultural destination. TikTok

Visitors can expect to encounter a diverse range of art forms, from large-scale sculptures that interact with the urban infrastructure to more intimate, thought-provoking pieces. The art is often site-specific, designed to complement the unique environment of The Bentway, offering a fresh perspective with each visit. TikTok

Throughout the year, The Bentway also hosts a variety of community events and programming, including art crawls, festivals, and performances. These events further solidify its role as a cultural anchor in the city, providing opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with art and each other. TikTok

Accessibility and Inclusivity at The Bentway

The Bentway is committed to being an accessible and inclusive space for all visitors. Its design beneath the Gardiner Expressway provides shelter from the elements, making it a comfortable destination in various weather conditions. The paved pathways are generally wide and level, making them suitable for strollers, wheelchairs, and mobility devices. TikTok

For ice skating, the availability of skate aids is a significant feature that supports beginner skaters, including children and adults who may need extra assistance. Reddit This focus on accessibility extends to ensuring that programming and events are as welcoming as possible to a diverse audience. TikTok

While general admission is free, specific events might have associated costs. However, the core experience of exploring the public space, viewing art, and enjoying the atmosphere is open to everyone. It's always a good idea to check The Bentway's official website for the latest information on accessibility features and upcoming inclusive programming. TikTok

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