Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Skaters
Top Things to Do in New York City for Skaters
1. LES Coleman Skatepark
Under the Manhattan Bridge in the Lower East Side, this legendary concrete park blends steep banks, hubbas, ledges, and hips with a gritty, cinematic city backdrop.
✓ Why Go:
It’s NYC street-skate heritage in one compact, high-energy plaza where locals push fast and lines change with every session.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early mornings on weekdays for open lines; late afternoons for the full LES vibe once schools let out.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring extra wheels or harder durometer—the surface is slick. Bodega snacks are steps away on Madison and Henry streets.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Skaters praise the scene, the creativity it sparks, and the constant flow; beginners note it can feel intense during peak hours.
2. Pier 62 Skatepark
Floating over the Hudson in Chelsea, Pier 62 features a dreamy poured-concrete bowl, a mellow street section, and sweeping river views.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the city’s smoothest resort-style skate with sunsets, breezes, and room to progress whether you’re carving or learning manuals.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Golden hour for cooler temps and epic light; weekday mornings for emptier decks.
✓ Insider Tip:
Restrooms and water are nearby at Chelsea Piers. Wind can pick up—bring a layer even in summer.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beloved for its flow and setting; families and photographers often post up, adding to the welcoming vibe.
3. Golconda Skate Park
Also known as “Fat Kid,” this Downtown Brooklyn favorite packs generous ledges, banks, and rails into a shaded space beneath the BQE.
✓ Why Go:
Street skaters love the technical options and forgiving ledges that are perfect for learning or filming lines.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-morning to early afternoon; shade keeps it rideable even on hot days.
✓ Insider Tip:
Wax is commonly used here—check ledges before you lock in. Dumbo spots and coffee are a short push away.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Locals call it progression-friendly and social; travelers appreciate how easy it is to meet a crew.
4. McCarren Park Skatepark
In Williamsburg/Greenpoint, this open-air concrete park mixes quarters, banks, euro gaps, and ledges with tons of deck space.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a hub for Brooklyn’s skate community and a great warm-up before exploring neighborhood street spots.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings and late evenings; weekends get lively and crowded.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pack a skate tool—hardware loosens after long sessions. Great post-skate eats line nearby Bedford and Nassau avenues.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Considered welcoming and balanced for most skill levels; visitors love the people-watching and neighborhood energy.
5. Riverside Park Skatepark
Tucked on the Upper West Side, this historic, rebuilt riverside spot offers banks, quarters, and grindable edges with leafy views.
✓ Why Go:
A mellow Manhattan session with shade, runs for all levels, and a classic NYC-park atmosphere.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning through afternoon when the path is quiet and the concrete warms up.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pack water—fountains can be seasonal. The nearby Hudson Greenway is a smooth cruise to other west side spots.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised as low-key and neighborly; regulars highlight steady maintenance and chill sessions.
6. River Avenue Skate Park
Under the 4 train by Yankee Stadium, the Bronx’s concrete park blends rails, hips, stairs, and mini transitions in a fast layout.
✓ Why Go:
A destination for street-focused skaters looking for real-city energy and burly features.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early mornings on game days; late afternoons on non-game days for a steady local crowd.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring earphones—the train overhead adds noise. Bodegas on River Ave keep cold drinks close.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Described as raw and authentic; travelers love the unbeatable subway-side aesthetics.
7. Rockaway Beach Skate Park
A breezy oceanside park near Beach 90th Street featuring bowls, extensions, and a compact street section steps from the surf.
✓ Why Go:
Skate, then dip—few NYC spots deliver skate-and-sea in one session.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Summer mornings before the beach rush; shoulder seasons for cooler, quieter laps.
✓ Insider Tip:
Sand can blow in—wipe decks before dropping. Rippers grab tacos on Beach 90th post-session.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors rave about the atmosphere and location; locals note wind and sand as part of the charm.
8. Astoria Skate Park
Beneath the RFK Bridge in Queens, this park offers banks, hubbas, rails, and long lines with dramatic bridge views.
✓ Why Go:
Durable concrete and varied street features make it a reliable all-rounder for Queens sessions.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon when the shade stretches and traffic noise dies down a touch.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grip gets dusty—bring a rag. Astoria eats on 30th Ave are an easy walk away.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Known as consistent and community-driven; travelers like the spacious feel and photogenic setting.
9. Maloof Skate Park (Flushing Meadows Corona Park)
A contest-grade plaza built by the Unisphere, with granite ledges, stairs, rails, and perfect banks for technical street skating.
✓ Why Go:
It’s Queens’ mecca for lines that feel like real city spots, with iconic park scenery all around.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays and early weekends; shade varies, so plan around midday sun.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring water and sunscreen—distances in the park can be long. The 7 train offers straightforward access.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Applauded for its pro-level build and film-worthy backdrops; can heat up in summer.
10. Vans Skate Space
A modern, free indoor skate space in Bushwick with curated ledges, banks, and transitions designed for flow and filming.
✓ Why Go:
When weather turns or you want dialed features and clean surfaces, this is Brooklyn’s go-to indoor option.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons and evenings; check for sessions before heading out.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring an ID for entry and a small bag—space is optimized for skating, not lounging.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised for pristine design and community programming; travelers appreciate a reliable rain-day plan.
