The Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex (WMRC) is one of the most popular family recreation destinations in Waterloo, Ontario. Located on Father David Bauer Drive, just west of Uptown, this multi-purpose facility has served as a hub for sports, fitness, and community gatherings since it first opened in 1993.
Built at a construction cost of $17.6 million, the complex was designed to provide residents with access to high-quality recreational amenities all year round. It’s owned and operated by the City of Waterloo, and continues to be a favourite destination for locals, students, and families looking to stay active indoors especially during the winter season.
Address, Contact, and Hours
Address: 101 Father David Bauer Dr, Waterloo, ON N2L 2J2
Phone: +1 519-886-1177
Owner: City of Waterloo
Opened: 1993
Capacity: 4,400 (Hockey events)
Official Website: City of Waterloo – Recreation
Hours: Open daily, typically from 6:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (Hours vary depending on program schedules and events)
Admission: Public skating is usually free or low-cost, with special pricing for family or senior sessions.
Family Skating and Ice Events
At the heart of the complex is the Sun Life Financial Arena, a full-sized ice rink measuring 98.4 ft × 197 ft, ideal for both recreational skating and hockey. It’s also the home rink for the Waterloo Siskins, a local Junior B hockey team with a strong community following.
Public skating sessions are open to all ages and skill levels, offering an enjoyable experience for beginners, families, and experienced skaters alike. Throughout the year, the arena also hosts family skate events, holiday-themed sessions, and special community programs that bring residents together.
In addition to ice skating, the complex features basketball courts and various recreation departments that manage fitness classes, aquatics, and youth programs.
What You Can Do Here
Visitors to the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex can enjoy a range of activities, including:
- Public and Family Skating – Perfect for parents and children to enjoy time together on the ice.
- Ice Hockey Games – Watch local teams like the Waterloo Siskins in action.
- Swimming – The Swimplex pool offers swimming lessons, aquafit, and open swims.
- Fitness Programs – The gym area provides modern equipment and instructor-led classes.
- Community Rentals – Host parties, meetings, or group events in the available community rooms.
Who Enjoys It Most
The complex caters to everyone families, sports enthusiasts, seniors, and students alike. It’s especially popular during winter when outdoor recreation is limited. Children love the family skate sessions, while adults enjoy hockey, swimming, and fitness programs.
Whether you’re a long-time Waterloo resident or a visitor exploring the region, WMRC provides a welcoming environment for all.
Facilities Inside the Complex
- Sun Life Financial Arena – Main rink used for skating, hockey, and public events.
- Swimplex Pool – Includes lanes, slides, and aquatic programs.
- Gym and Fitness Centre – Offers cardio, weights, and group exercise sessions.
- Community Rooms – Ideal for meetings, parties, or family celebrations.
- Basketball Courts – Indoor courts available for drop-in games and rentals.
- Washrooms and Change Rooms – Accessible and well-maintained for all visitors.
Nearby Food and Refreshments
While the complex doesn’t have a restaurant inside, visitors can find plenty of food options nearby:
- Beertown Public House – A family-friendly restaurant with classic Canadian fare.
- Morty’s Pub – Famous for wings and casual dining.
- Williams Fresh Café – A great spot for coffee, snacks, or sandwiches.
All are within a 5–10 minute walk or short drive.
How to Get There
By Bus: Grand River Transit (GRT) routes 5, 7, and 29 have stops near the complex.
By Car: Free on-site parking is available for visitors.
By Bike or Foot: Safe sidewalks and bike paths connect the complex with nearby neighbourhoods.
By Taxi or Rideshare: Services like Waterloo Taxi or Uber are easily accessible.
Distance from Major Areas
- From Downtown Kitchener: About 10 minutes (6 km)
- From Cambridge: Around 25 minutes (23 km)
- From Toronto: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes (105 km)
Accessibility and Best Time to Visit
The facility is fully accessible, featuring barrier-free entrances, elevators, accessible washrooms, and designated seating.
The best time to visit is during fall and winter, when family skating sessions are in full swing. However, the complex remains active all year, offering swimming and fitness options during warmer months.
The Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex is more than just an arena — it’s a place where community spirit thrives. Whether you’re taking your kids skating, attending a hockey game, or joining a fitness class, this facility provides a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. It’s one of the best family-friendly destinations in Waterloo, where memories are made every season.
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