George Bell Arena

George Bell Arena

George Bell Arena in the Runnymede area of Toronto is one of eight rinks operated by the Independent City Council and opened in October 1961. It replaced Ravina Rink and became a symbol of former NHL glory; it was the practice site for teams such as the Toronto Maple Leafs for many years.

The arena features a single-pad ice rink and is operated by the George Bell Hockey Association, which offers children's, youth and adult hockey programs (from U7 to seniors). You can experience the sport at the facility by attending public programs such as Public Skating, women's leagues and local events, or by booking private ice.

The arena is currently closed for extensive renovations, with work scheduled to continue through spring 2026, including upgrades to the roof, lighting, cooling, locker rooms and easier access. In addition to hockey, the complex's space is designed for events such as charity tournaments, group workouts, women's activities, and educational classes; there is also an on-site snack bar.

Features & Amenities

• 1 Single Pad Ice Rink: A standard ice pad is available for hockey competition and practice.
• Locker Rooms, Restrooms and Offices: Includes locker rooms, restrooms and office space, and utilities for program management.
• Snack Bar: Available for on-site snacks and beverages.
• Training Programs and Sports Facilities: Provides hockey programs by the George Bell Hockey Association, women’s leagues, tournaments, and public skating sessions.
• Lighting, Ventilation, and Ice Cooling: The rink has a standard lighting and ventilation system for optimal ice and air quality. The renovation plan also includes a revised ice cooling system.
• Ongoing Renovations and Accessibility Improvements: A project that includes roof replacement, locker room renovations, electrical/mechanical systems, and accessibility improvements is scheduled for completion by spring 2026.

Programs & Activities

1. Learn to Skate (for beginners of all ages)

Introductory course for novice children (especially those born after 2014), including teaching basic skating skills and then moving on to leagues appropriate to their age and level.

2. Initiation Program (U7 to U9)

The most basic level of hockey instruction for ages 4 to 6, modified into a cross-ice game with the goal of safety and fun learning.

3. House League (U10 to U18)

A local recreational and family league for children and teens of all ages, with indoor practices and weekly games.

4. Competitive Development Program (CDP)

A competitive development program for intermediate and higher levels, with 1–2 weekly practices and competitions against other clubs (20–25 games per season).

5. Select & "A"

For high-level players in the teen age range; Includes more practice and matches (20–30 games or even 40–50 games), with the possibility of participating in regional and city competitive tournaments and leagues.

Book Now

1. Create an account or log in to the City of Toronto’s Online Registration & Booking system

First, log in to the City of Toronto’s Online Registration & Booking system. If you don’t have an account, sign up and verify your email to make a reservation.

2. Search for a facility and select “Ice Rentals”

Once logged in, search for George Bell Arena and select “Ice Rentals” or “Facility Rentals.” This will often take you to CatchCorner or a similar online booking system.

3. Select a time, booking type and use

Select the desired day and time (Prime-Time or Non-Prime) for the desired season (fall/winter or summer).

The name of the group (e.g. league, team or private practice) and the number of participants will be specified.

4. Pay and receive confirmation

Rental fees are usually calculated on an hourly basis; for Prime-Time sessions, it’s between CAD272 and CAD320, and Non-Prime is around CAD142 per hour.

After paying online, print or save your receipt or booking confirmation.

Location & Accessibility & Contact

• Exact address: George Bell Stadium, 215 Ryding Avenue, Toronto, ONM6N1H6, Canada
• Map and public access
• The venue is located south of Ryding Avenue, between St. Clair and Dundas Highways.
• For access by car, the following routes are available: Route 401 → Highway 400 → Jane Street → Dundas Street → St. Clair Street → Runnymede Street → Ryding Ave.
• Opening hours: According to the Chamber of Commerce, the venue is open daily from 6 am to midnight (00:00).
• Contact number: (416)392-0377
• General email: parks[at]toronto[dot]ca or georgebellarena[at]gmail[dot]com for questions about reservations, programs, and current renovations.

FAQs

Is George Bell Arena still in operation?

No, the arena has been closed since April 2025 for renovations and is expected to reopen in the spring of 2026.

What activities were offered at the facility before the closure?

Programs include Public Skating, Women's League, Charity Tournaments, Ice Rentals, Public Skating, and George Bell Hockey Association classes.