Mattamy Athletic Centre (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Mattamy Athletic Centre?
What makes it 78% Kids-Friendly: Kids can skate for free on select dates, follow a self-guided history hunt, and enter varsity games on discounted family packs; however, no skate rentals, mandatory helmets, and few play corners reduce convenience.
Positives:
- Historic Backdrop: Kids can imagine old Maple Leafs games under the original dome and see vintage architectural details.
- Free Family Activities: Both the self-guided tour and community skate are complimentary if you bring your own gear.
- On-Site Convenience: The ground-floor Loblaws lets you refuel without leaving the building.
Challenges:
- No On-Site Skate Rentals: You must bring or rent skates and helmets off-site; plan ahead to reserve gear.
- Event Schedule Changes: Check the MAC website for last-minute changes to skate sessions or varsity game times.
What is Mattamy Athletic Centre?
- A multi-purpose athletic complex housed in the restored Maple Leaf Gardens in downtown Toronto
- Home to an NHL regulation ice rink, basketball and volleyball courts, and dedicated fitness and training studios
- A Toronto Metropolitan University sports venue that marries historic Art Deco architecture with contemporary amenities
What is so special about Mattamy Athletic Centre for with kids?
- Free self-guided tour through historic Maple Leaf Gardens architecture
- Public skate sessions under the original dome (bring your own gear)
- Family 4-Pack tickets for varsity games at $35 CAD
- Quick meals and snacks at the on-site Loblaws market
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the heritage tour, a community skate or varsity game, and a quick visit to the Loblaws market without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Mattamy Athletic Centre
Self-Guided Heritage Tour:
Pick up a free tour sheet at the main desk and explore original rafters, the domed roof and historic plaques.
Tip: Start at the first-floor lobby to follow the tour route and bring a camera for photo spots.
Community Skate Under the Dome:
Join public skate sessions on the NHL-sized ice beneath the original Maple Leaf Gardens ceiling.
Tip: Bring CSA-approved helmets and your own skates. Check the MAC website for skate dates.
Family Game Day:
Buy a Family 4-Pack for TMU varsity basketball, volleyball or hockey games.
Tip: Reserve tickets online in advance to sit together. Kids 2 and under enter free.
Loblaws Supermarket Stop:
Grab sandwiches, snacks and cold drinks at the market on the ground floor.
Tip: Visit between activities for a quick, cost-effective lunch or snack break.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Mattamy Athletic Centre
- Book Tickets Early: Secure Family 4-Pack tickets online at least a few days in advance to guarantee seats.
- Combine Tour and Market: Do the heritage tour first, then head to Loblaws for lunch to split your visit into two parts.
- Arrive Before Peak: Get there 15 minutes early for community skates and guest services to store strollers.
Reviews of Mattamy Athletic Centre
Shaggy Shanahan
I was here for TCAF 2025 (Toronto Comic Arts Festival), and it was really neat to have a comic festival at a venue with surrounding stadium seating. You could really just sit there on a break and... TAKE it all in.
Rick Grimes
The only downside of this area is there is no “behind the net” seats, which is not ideal for curling. Something awesome is there is access to the hockey bench from the general seating, so it’s easy to snag a pic or signature from the professional players!
S D (Sue)
Enjoyed Draw 15 of GSOC. The arena was perfect temperature, seats were not too uncomfortable, popcorn and a pop cost about 12$. Next time - I'll leave the extra coat and seat cushion at home and travel light
Glen E. Grant
Excellent facilities, it's only unfortunate that it's not named related to its past as the Original Maple Leafs Garden. Facility does carry some nostalgia photos and information within but it lacks the prestigious nature of what it represents to those of us old enough. That being said I was there for an event and it was a fear venue, easily accessible and fun to watch some hockey taking place also...
Keiron Kozy
Fully accessible. Elevators, escalators, accessible seating. Lots of cheap uni sporting events Full snack bar, drinks, popcorn, coffee, alcohol etc Washrooms upstairs,
When is the best time to visit Mattamy Athletic Centre (Toronto, Canada)?
In winter, plan around Community Skate dates. In spring and fall, varsity games run most weekends. Summer ice activities are limited, so focus on tours and market visits.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family 4-Pack game tickets | CAD 35 |
| Off-site skate rentals (2 pairs) | CAD 20 |
| Lunch/snacks at Loblaws | CAD 32 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 87 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Mattamy Athletic Centre
Address: 50 Carlton St., Toronto, ON M5B 1J2, Canada
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About Mattamy Athletic Centre
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 416-598-596010 BEST nearby Activities
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