Boart Longyear Memorial Gardens

Imagine the heart of the sporting and cultural life of North Bay — the multi-purpose arena Memorial Gardens. Located in the province of Ontario, Canada, this venue is more than just a stadium; it is a true community symbol, built in 1955 in memory of local residents who fell in world wars.

Today, the complex, officially named Boart Longyear Memorial Gardens, represents a harmonious blend of 1950s historical architecture and modern technological solutions implemented after a major renovation. The arena features an NHL-standard hockey rink and can accommodate over 4,200 spectators during ice battles and up to 5,000 people for spectacular concerts.

The significance of this venue for the region is highlighted by its new name in honor of Boart Longyear, a global leader in drilling services whose history has been intertwined with this region for nearly a century. Visiting the arena is a great way to feel the authentic spirit of Canadian hockey and learn more about the heritage of this hospitable northern city.

To find out about upcoming matches, buy tickets, or book the venue for events, you can use the official contact details. The arena administration is always ready to assist tourists and organizers.

The main draw for visitors is, of course, the exciting hockey games. Here you can see the North Bay Battalion of the Ontario Hockey League in action or cheer on the Nipissing Lakers university teams. The atmosphere in the stands during games is indescribable: the fans' passion and the speed of the game allow you to fully experience why this sport has become a religion for Canadians.

Beyond sports, Memorial Gardens regularly transforms into a venue for major cultural events. It hosts world-class concerts, trade shows, and corporate celebrations. History buffs will enjoy visiting the North Bay Sports Hall of Fame located right inside the complex. It houses unique exhibits telling the stories of the region's legendary athletes, including NHL stars and Canadian football greats.

Be sure to notice the arena's walls and corridors: they feature memorial plaques honoring fallen soldiers and archive photos of teams from different eras. This turns a simple trip to the stadium into a fascinating journey through time, allowing you to touch the deep traditions of the city, which was officially recognized as the Hockey Capital of Canada in 2007.

Finding Memorial Gardens is easy, as the arena is located right in the city center at 100 Chippewa Street West. Thanks to its prime location, the sports complex is within walking distance of many popular hotels, restaurants, and shopping areas in the city.

For those who prefer to travel by car, there is ample parking directly next to the building. The city is conveniently connected to Ontario's major highways, making it easily accessible for travelers from major Canadian metropolitan areas. If you decide to take a taxi, the ride from downtown or the Lake Nipissing waterfront will only take a few minutes.

The city's public transit also serves this area: several bus routes stop nearby, providing connections to other parts of the community. Its central location makes the arena an excellent starting point for further exploring the city's culture.

The history of this venue began in the mid-1950s. Built in 1954–1955, the complex was originally intended as a "living memorial" to city residents who heroically gave their lives on the battlefields of the First and Second World Wars. The grand opening took place on November 14, 1955, and since then, the arena has become not just a sports facility but an important symbol of remembrance.

Over its decades of existence, the building has hosted several famous "ice tenants." Teams such as the North Bay Centennials and North Bay Trappers practiced and played here, and since 2013, the arena has been the home of the North Bay Battalion. A landmark event in the venue's history was the city's recognition as "Kraft Hockeyville" in 2007, which brought a grant for a modern electronic scoreboard — the pride of local fans at the time.

In 2013, the facility underwent a major renovation that completely transformed its appearance. The work added a stylish glass facade and modern luxury boxes, allowing the arena to meet the strict standards of the Ontario Hockey League. Despite all the updates, the interior carefully preserves the atmosphere of a classic Canadian arena, where every corner is steeped in a love for winter sports.

Planning your visit to Memorial Gardens depends directly on the purpose of your trip. If your main goal is to see the Sports Hall of Fame and browse the memorial displays, then 1–1.5 hours will be quite enough for a leisurely stroll and a look at the photos.

For those coming to cheer on their favorite team or enjoy a concert, you should budget about 3–4 hours. This includes arrival (it is recommended to come early to avoid entry queues), the match or show itself, and potential breaks for food courts or the souvenir shop.

The administrative office of Memorial Gardens typically operates on a standard schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The office is closed on Saturdays and Sundays for general inquiries, though this does not affect events.

The arena's own schedule is directly tied to the game and concert calendar. Matches and shows often take place in the evenings and on weekends. To ensure a successful visit, be sure to check the current program on the official website or contact the box office in advance, as door times can vary depending on the specific event.

After attending an exciting match or touring the Hall of Fame, it's worth taking some time to explore the surroundings. The area around the arena offers many interesting spots — from cozy restaurants where you can discuss the game to historical monuments and scenic lake views.

Exploring the downtown area will allow you to better feel the atmosphere of provincial Ontario and enjoy the hospitality of the locals. Below is a list of points of interest within a three-kilometer radius.