GFL Memorial Gardens

In the heart of Sault Ste. Marie, located in the province of Ontario, Canada, you will find GFL Memorial Gardens. More than just a sports arena, it is the cultural and social epicenter of the region. This modern complex, which opened in 2006, occupies an entire city block and serves as the home stadium for the famous Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds hockey club.

The building was constructed with deep respect for local history, incorporating the Memorial Tower—the only surviving element of the former stadium. In front of the arena's northern facade, guests are greeted by the Walk of Fame, where memorial plaques honor outstanding residents who have made significant contributions to the community.

GFL Memorial Gardens is a multi-purpose entertainment center with a capacity of about 5,000 spectators. Thanks to its thoughtful architecture, elevators, and ramps, the arena is fully accessible to all visitors. It is the city's premier venue for hosting not only ice battles but also large-scale concerts, exhibitions, and conferences.

To plan your visit or check the schedule for upcoming events, you can use the contact details for GFL Memorial Gardens provided below.

A visit to GFL Memorial Gardens is primarily a chance to immerse yourself in the thrilling atmosphere of authentic Canadian hockey. Fans come here to cheer on the local Greyhounds in their Ontario Hockey League games. The energy of the stands and the professionalism of the players make every match an unforgettable spectacle for tourists.

Beyond sports, the arena regularly transforms into a world-class concert venue. Over the years, stars such as Elton John, KISS, Bryan Adams, and Neil Young have performed here. The complex also hosts Cirque du Soleil shows, prestigious curling tournaments, and family performances, making its event calendar incredibly diverse.

If you aren't planning to attend a specific event, it is worth taking some time to explore the exterior features. Stroll along the Walk of Fame to learn about famous locals, and snap a photo with the historic Memorial Tower in the background. Its modern interior and available space for private meetings make it a key attraction for both residents and visitors alike.

Located in the heart of downtown Sault Ste. Marie, GFL Memorial Gardens is easily accessible for most tourists. If you are staying at one of the central hotels, walking to the complex is a pleasant addition to your itinerary. The building is located at 269 Queen St E, surrounded by popular shops and cozy restaurants.

For those traveling from further away, it is convenient to use a taxi or public transport—city bus routes reliably connect the downtown area with all key points in the city. If you are arriving from Chippewa County International Airport, the drive takes only about 10–15 minutes. Parking spaces for drivers are available nearby at Memorial Square.

The history of this site began long before the current building was constructed. GFL Memorial Gardens was built next to the site of an older arena that had served the city since 1949. The previous building was demolished in 2006, but as a sign of continuity, architects preserved the Memorial Tower, which now serves as a striking historical focal point for the new complex.

Over the years, the facility has changed names several times due to sponsorship deals. It was originally known as the Steelback Centre, then carried the name Essar Centre for ten years. Since August 1, 2018, following an agreement with GFL Environmental Inc., the arena received its current official name.

Interestingly, the Walk of Fame was officially inaugurated alongside the grand opening of the complex on September 30, 2006. The entire project cost the city approximately 25 million Canadian dollars, becoming one of the most significant infrastructure projects in downtown Sault Ste. Marie, where the Greyhounds hockey club continues its history that began back in 1962.

If your goal is to attend a hockey game, concert, or another major show, we recommend setting aside 2 to 4 hours. This will be enough time to go through security without rushing, enjoy the atmosphere, and watch the event itself.

For those who just want to see the architecture from the outside, view the historic Memorial Tower, and walk along the Walk of Fame, 30–60 minutes will suffice. A full visit, combining the outdoor features with an event, typically takes about 3–5 hours.

On regular days, the administration and box office at GFL Memorial Gardens operate on the following schedule: Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The complex is usually closed on Sundays unless special events are scheduled for that day.

It is important to note that operating hours may vary depending on the schedule of hockey games, concerts, or exhibitions. Before visiting, it is highly recommended to check the arena's official website for the latest information and to confirm the start time of the event you are interested in.

Exploring the area around GFL Memorial Gardens will allow you to get a deeper feel for the city's atmosphere. Its location in the historical center makes it easy to combine a sporting event with a visit to unique monuments and museums within walking distance.