Skateboarding in the Concrete Jungle: A New Yorker's Guide
New York City. The city that never sleeps, where dreams are made (and crushed), and pigeons have more street cred than you. It's also a skateboarder's paradise, or hell, depending on how you look at it. Let's dive into the gritty, glorious world of skating the Big Apple.
 |
| Where To Skateboard In Nyc |
Skate Parks: The Concrete Oasis
If you're looking for a place to hone your ollies without dodging pedestrians or getting arrested, New York City actually has a decent amount of skate parks.
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
- Coleman Playground: This place is like a skateboarder's mecca. It's got everything from pyramids to ledges, and the energy is electric. Just be prepared to fight for your spot.
- Pier 62 Skatepark: If you prefer a more chill vibe, this waterfront park is your jam. It's got a great mix of beginner and intermediate features.
- Highbridge Skate Park: This is the big daddy of NYC skate parks. It's massive, with something for everyone. But be warned: it can get crowded.
Street Skating: A High-Risk, High-Reward Game
Street skating in NYC is a whole different ball game. It's like playing Russian roulette with a skateboard. One minute you're nailing a perfect kickflip, the next you're picking yourself up from a faceplant in front of a million tourists.
QuickTip: Skim slowly, read deeply.
 |
- The Lower East Side: A skater's playground, with endless possibilities for grinding, flipping, and sliding. Just watch out for the hipsters and the cops.
- Washington Square Park: This is a classic spot, but it's also a magnet for tourists and cops. If you're feeling brave, give it a shot.
- Brooklyn: With its diverse neighborhoods and varying terrain, Brooklyn is a skater's goldmine. Just be prepared to explore.
A Word of Caution: Street skating is illegal in NYC. Don't be a dummy, wear a helmet, and be aware of your surroundings. And if a cop tells you to get off your board, do it. You don't want to end up with a criminal record over a kickflip.
Tip: Don’t skip the small notes — they often matter.
Skate Shops: Gear Up, Dude
No skateboard, no problem. NYC has a bunch of awesome skate shops where you can find everything from complete boards to the latest footwear. Just be prepared to drop some serious dough.
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
How to...
- How to avoid getting kicked out of a skate park? Follow the rules, pick up your trash, and be respectful of other skaters.
- How to survive street skating in NYC? Wear protective gear, be aware of your surroundings, and have a backup plan.
- How to find good skate spots? Explore different neighborhoods, talk to other skaters, and use online resources.
- How to impress other skaters? Land a perfect kickflip, or at least pretend you can.
- How to deal with the inevitable fall? Get up, dust yourself off, and try again. Or just cry. Your call.
 |
