The Point Edward Arena

On the banks of the picturesque St. Clair River, where Lake Huron begins its flow south, lies the Point Edward Arena. It is not just a sports facility, but a true hub of community life for the small village of Point Edward, which borders the city of Sarnia. The arena is an indoor complex that has become an important landmark in this part of Canada thanks to its cozy atmosphere and rich history.

Built in 1955, the arena is a classic example of a multi-functional sports facility. The primary focus here is on ice sports, particularly hockey, which is an integral part of Canadian culture. Despite the presence of larger stadiums nearby, Point Edward Arena maintains its uniqueness as a venue for local tournaments, junior practices, and family recreation.

Visitors appreciate the venue for its excellent ice and friendly environment. A rating of 4.6 confirms that the arena remains in high demand today, offering guests not only sports but also space for concerts, exhibitions, and community celebrations. It is an ideal spot to discover how a real Canadian community lives and breathes.

To check the public skating schedule, book ice time, or get information about upcoming events, you can use the following contact details:

The main draw for visitors to the arena is, undoubtedly, the ice. Here you can not only cheer on local junior teams during exciting hockey matches but also lace up your own skates. Regular public skating sessions are open to everyone, making the arena a wonderful spot for family leisure. If you're just learning, skating lessons are often held here, and ice rentals are available for private events.

Beyond sports activities, Point Edward Arena often serves as a venue for cultural events. Depending on the season, you might find weekend fairs, community meetings, or local concerts. The spacious hall allows for events of various formats, bringing together residents of Sarnia and the surrounding areas.

The arena's location adds a special charm to any visit. After an active time on the ice, it’s worth taking a stroll in the nearby Bayview Park or walking along the St. Clair River waterfront. The proximity to the water and park areas allows you to create a well-rounded itinerary: from high-energy sports to the peaceful contemplation of ships passing under the famous Bluewater Bridge.

Reaching the Point Edward Arena by car is easy. It is conveniently located near Highway 402. Travelers should head toward the Bluewater Bridge and turn onto Exmouth Street, which leads directly into the village of Point Edward. Ample free parking is provided for visitors on-site.

If you prefer public transportation, use the Lambton Transit bus system from central Sarnia. Routes connect the main parts of the city with the waterfront, from where the arena is within walking distance. For those arriving from other cities, a taxi from Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport (YZR) is a convenient option, with the drive taking about 15–20 minutes.

For outdoor enthusiasts, walking or cycling is an excellent choice. The arena is within walking distance of the picturesque Sarnia Bay waterfront. A well-developed network of paths and proximity to the marina make this journey pleasant and easy, especially during the warmer months.

The history of this sports facility is inextricably linked to the post-war boom of the region. The arena was built in 1955, serving as a vital social project for the village of Point Edward. At that time, the settlement was actively developing, transforming from a major Grand Trunk Railway hub into a comfortable residential and recreational suburb.

The location for construction was not chosen by chance. The surrounding area had historically been designated for public needs: as far back as the late 19th century, land here was allocated for parks and churches. The opening of the arena solidified Point Edward's status as a community focused on sports and active social interaction, which was particularly important during the village's period of rapid growth in the 1950s.

Interestingly, before the arena appeared, village life was centered around ferries and massive grain elevators. The construction of its own ice complex marked a new chapter for local residents, making hockey and figure skating accessible to everyone. Today, the building preserves its mid-century spirit, remaining the heart of the local community.

A simple walk-through to see the building and soak in the atmosphere will take about 30–40 minutes. However, most visitors come here for active recreation or events. If you plan to join a public skating session or attend a local hockey match, you should allow at least 1.5–2 hours, including time for changing and preparation.

If you decide to combine your visit to the arena with a walk through the neighboring parks and a tour of the lighthouses along the St. Clair River, it is best to set aside half a day for the entire trip to this area. This will allow you to enjoy the views of Lake Huron at a leisurely pace and have lunch at one of the local cafes.

The Point Edward Arena's schedule is flexible and depends directly on the season and sports league calendars. Generally, the complex is open from early morning until late evening to accommodate all practices and games. Public skating sessions are typically held at specific times on weekends and weekdays.

As exact operating hours may change due to special events or holidays, we strongly recommend checking the current schedule on the official Village of Point Edward website before your visit.

A visit to the arena can easily be combined with a walk around the surrounding area, which is rich in historical monuments and scenic views. Its location at the point where Lake Huron meets the St. Clair River offers tourists many interesting sites within walking distance.

Of particular note are the historic lighthouses and monuments dedicated to the region's rich maritime past. You can stroll to the waterfront to witness the engineering grandeur of the Bluewater Bridge or pay your respects at the city's memorials.