Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Skaters on Staten Island
Top Things to Do in New York City for Skaters on Staten Island
1. Staten Island Skating Pavilion
Indoor ice rink with reliable ice, rental skates, and roomy sidelines—ideal for practicing edges, crossovers, or just gliding when the weather is rough outside.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the borough’s go-to for year‑round ice skating, with public sessions, stick-and-puck, and figure-friendly ice that welcomes all levels.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday early evenings outside of hockey league slots; winter weekends for a lively crowd.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the schedule before you go and bring thin gloves; it’s cool on the benches. SIR’s Arthur Kill station is a short rideshare away.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families and rec skaters praise the smooth ice and friendly staff; regulars like the clean facility and predictable sessions.
2. RollerJam USA
Classic indoor roller rink with DJ sets, themed nights, rentals, and a polished floor—great for quads or inlines and social laps.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the borough’s roller scene hub, perfect for learning dance moves, refining stride, or linking up with local skaters.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Friday and Saturday night sessions for energy; Sunday afternoons for mellow family skating.
✓ Insider Tip:
Arrive early to size skates before the rush. SIR Richmond Valley station puts you within a quick walk.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Skaters love the upbeat vibe and throwback music; newcomers appreciate helpful staff and ample rental sizes.
3. Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk
Miles of seafront pavement from South Beach through Midland Beach—flat, scenic, and perfect for cruising, cardio laps, or sunset rolls.
✓ Why Go:
The longest, smoothest open run on the island with ocean views, seabreezes, and plenty of space to practice stride or ride with friends.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early mornings for glassy pavement and fewer pedestrians; golden hour for calm winds and epic sky colors.
✓ Insider Tip:
Wind can kick up; bring a light layer. Start near the fishing pier for smoother sections and easy bathroom access.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Locals rave about the views and distance options; fitness skaters call it the best place to build endurance on Staten Island.
4. Silver Lake Park Loop
Gently rolling park drives and lakeside paths offer varied terrain for edge control, interval laps, and hill practice.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a scenic alternative to the shoreline with shade, short climbs, and quieter pockets for skills work.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings or late afternoons; avoid peak weekend picnics for clearer lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use softer wheels after rain—tree cover can leave damp patches. Post‑session, cool down along Victory Blvd’s cafes.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Skaters like the mix of light hills and flats; photographers love the lake reflections at dusk.
5. St. George Esplanade
Harborfront promenade by the ferry with smooth pavement, skyline views, and a steady breeze—ideal for short technical sessions.
✓ Why Go:
Quick access from the ferry and a postcard backdrop make this a convenient warm‑up or post‑work roll.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday daylight hours; aim for mid‑morning to dodge commuter surges.
✓ Insider Tip:
Start at the terminal and head west for fewer crowds. Watch for occasional ferry foot traffic at departure times.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the Manhattan views; commuters appreciate the easy, scenic spin before catching the boat.
6. Stapleton Waterfront Esplanade
Newer waterfront paths near the URBY development offer smooth concrete, open sightlines, and calm harbor views.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a polished, low‑traffic surface for practicing turns, slides, and controlled speed work with great scenery.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon into sunset when the light softens and winds ease.
✓ Insider Tip:
Combine with coffee or a snack at nearby spots along Front St; evenings are pleasantly lit for a relaxed roll.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Skaters praise the clean pavement and chill vibe; residents note it’s a safe, well‑kept stretch for beginners.
7. Midland Beach Sea Turtle Fountain Plaza
A broad, smooth plaza by the playful fountain just off the boardwalk—great for flatground practice and drills.
✓ Why Go:
You get roomy, even surfaces steps from the beach, perfect for footwork, spins, or practicing manuals.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings or early evenings; avoid mid‑day in summer when families gather around the fountain.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a small towel—fine sand can drift onto the concrete on windy days. Refill water at nearby facilities.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beginners and families love the open feel; experienced skaters use it as a skills zone before longer boardwalk runs.
8. Willowbrook Park Lake Loop
A mellow loop around the lake with broad paths, light grades, and plenty of green—ideal for steady laps and recovery rides.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a low‑stress environment to fine‑tune cadence and technique away from traffic and seaside winds.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings; spring and fall offer the smoothest, driest surfaces.
✓ Insider Tip:
Watch for goose crossings near the water. Pair with the Carousel area for flat sprint intervals when it’s quiet.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Locals appreciate the calm, nature‑rich setting; skaters say it’s confidence‑building for newer riders.
9. Conference House Park Waterfront Path
Historic Tottenville shoreline with long, open stretches and sweeping Raritan Bay views—great for distance cruising.
✓ Why Go:
Fewer crowds and big‑sky vistas make it a serene spot for endurance sessions or photo‑worthy sunset skates.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon to sunset; winter days can be brisk but beautifully clear.
✓ Insider Tip:
Winds can be stronger here—pack a windbreaker and choose larger, softer wheels for comfort.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the peaceful, almost rural feel; locals call it a hidden‑gem cruise with room to roam.
10. Snug Harbor Cultural Center
An expansive historic campus with smooth internal roads and plazas for easy cruising between gardens and galleries.
✓ Why Go:
Combine a relaxed roll with cultural stops and shaded routes—perfect for low‑key sessions and meetups.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays and early weekend mornings for quieter grounds and open pavement.
✓ Insider Tip:
Stay off garden paths and busy entrances—stick to the perimeter roads for the best glide and fewer pedestrians.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Skaters appreciate the photogenic architecture and calm pace; culture lovers enjoy pairing a session with exhibits.
