Centre Slush Puppie

If you are looking for the epicenter of sports life and vibrant emotions, then Gatineau Arena (officially known as Centre Slush Puppie) is exactly the place to visit. Located in a picturesque region encompassing the city of Ottawa, this modern multipurpose complex is the pride of the province of Quebec and all of Canada.

This architectural landmark is not just a stadium, but a high-tech space for sports and culture. The main arena can accommodate over 4,000 spectators and is built to the rigorous standards of major hockey leagues. In addition to the main ice surface, there are three community rinks named after key sponsors, providing thousands of hours of ice time for professionals and amateurs annually.

The building stands out for its stylish design: soft black seats in the local team's colors, wide bright corridors, and a panoramic three-story restaurant overlooking a busy street. This venue has become a true home for the Gatineau Olympiques hockey club and a focal point for everyone who values quality recreation and the dynamic atmosphere of northern sports.

To check the event schedule or book ice time, you can use the official communication channels. The complex administration is always ready to help visitors with information about tickets and available services.

The main reason thousands of people come here is for the thrilling hockey matches. Become part of the roaring crowd of fans supporting the local team, the Gatineau Olympiques. Don't forget to meet their mascot—a funny panda named Hully, who is always ready to cheer up guests in the stands.

If you prefer active participation, three modern community rinks are at your service. Here you can enjoy skating, practice figure skating, or try your hand at ringette. The complex offers excellent opportunities for family recreation and group sports activities all year round.

In addition to sports activities, Centre Slush Puppie regularly hosts musical concerts, cultural shows, and gala events. To make your visit even more pleasant, stop by Resto bar Loft Le 1973—a stylish restaurant where you can discuss the game over a delicious dinner or order drinks before the show begins.

Getting to this sports facility is easy, as it is conveniently located in the Gatineau sector. If you are coming from downtown Ottawa, the trip by car or taxi will only take about 10–15 minutes. You will need to cross one of the bridges over the river, heading east into Gatineau.

For those who prefer public transport, the arena is accessible via a well-developed network of bus routes connecting various parts of the city. The complex is designed with accessibility in mind, making it easy to reach by bicycle or on foot if you are near the Maison de la Culture.

Free parking is provided for private vehicle owners, although during major matches or concerts, it is advisable to arrive early to secure a spot in the paid or adjacent parking zones. Exact navigator coordinates: 45.4834663, -75.6807327.

The history of this venue began relatively recently—the decision to build the complex was officially approved by the Gatineau City Council in February 2017. The project, costing approximately 79 million Canadian dollars, was envisioned as the long-awaited replacement for the aging Robert Guertin Centre, which served as the region's main ice arena for many years.

Gatineau Arena (also known as Centre Slush Puppie) opened its doors to the first visitors on August 20, 2021. The implementation of this large-scale project was handled by the non-profit organization Vision Multisports Outaouais Inc., whose mission is to promote sports and a healthy lifestyle among youth. The renowned firm Architecture49 was responsible for the building's architectural design.

An interesting fact is related to the arena's name: the naming rights belong to Slush Puppie, the famous manufacturer of frozen beverages. This partnership highlights the complex's close ties with local business and the sporting community. The Gatineau Olympiques team itself, for whom the arena became home, has a rich history and was known as the Hull Olympiques before the city merger in 2002.

Despite its young age, the complex has already hosted significant sporting events. For example, in April 2023, it hosted playoff matches for the Ottawa 67's, confirming the high status and technical equipment of the venue, which meets the strictest hockey league standards.

The time you spend at the complex largely depends on the purpose of your visit. If you plan to attend a hockey match or a spectacular show, allow approximately 2.5–3 hours in your schedule. This is enough time to comfortably take your seats, enjoy the game, and have a snack during the intermission.

For those coming for public skating or a training session on one of the community rinks, 1–2 hours of active recreation is usually sufficient. If you wish to combine sports with a visit to the panoramic restaurant and a leisurely tour of the entire complex, plan for a half-day visit.

The complex is open daily, providing residents and visitors with maximum opportunities for sports and recreation. The arena doors are open from early morning until late evening:

• Monday – Friday: 08:00 – 23:30
• Saturday – Sunday: 07:00 – 22:00

Please note that during special matches, concerts, or holiday events, the operating hours of specific areas (such as community rinks or the restaurant) may change. It is recommended to check the schedule for specific events on the complex's official website.

A visit to the arena can easily be combined with exploring other interesting places in the region. Proximity to the capital's center allows tourists to move quickly between modern sports facilities and historical landmarks.