Skateboarding has become a global phenomenon, with skateparks popping up in cities all over the world. These parks serve as a hub for skaters to practice their skills, connect with others in the community, and push the boundaries of what is possible on a board. With so many skateparks to choose from, it can be hard to know which ones are truly the best. In this article, we will explore the top 10 skateparks around the world that every skater should visit at least once in their lifetime.
1. Burnside Skatepark (Portland, Oregon, USA)
Located underneath the Burnside Bridge in Portland, Burnside Skatepark is a DIY skatepark that has become legendary in the skateboarding community. The park was built by skateboarders in the early 1990s and features a unique layout of bowls, ramps, and hips that have been skated by some of the best in the world.
2. The Berrics (Los Angeles, California, USA)
Founded by professional skateboarders Steve Berra and Eric Koston, The Berrics is a private skatepark in Los Angeles that has hosted some of the biggest names in skateboarding. The park is known for its immaculate features and state-of-the-art filming capabilities, making it a favorite spot for skaters looking to film their latest video parts.
3. Sants Skater Park (Barcelona, Spain)
Located in the heart of Barcelona, Sants Skater Park is a large outdoor skatepark that caters to skaters of all levels. The park features bowls, banks, and ledges, as well as a vibrant atmosphere that makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
4. The Skatepark of Tampa (Tampa, Florida, USA)
Known as one of the oldest and most iconic skateparks in the world, The Skatepark of Tampa has been hosting professional skateboarding competitions for over 25 years. The park features a mix of street and transition elements, as well as a pro shop and a bar that serves up cold drinks for skaters looking to cool off after a session.
5. House of Vans (London, UK)
Located in the heart of London, House of Vans is a unique skatepark that doubles as an art gallery, music venue, and cinema. The park features a mix of indoor and outdoor obstacles, as well as a bowl that has been skated by some of the best in the game.
6. Skatopia (Rutland, Ohio, USA)
Tucked away in rural Ohio, Skatopia is a skatepark like no other. The park is located on a 88-acre plot of land and features a mix of DIY ramps, bowls, and rails that have been built by the skaters who call it home. Skatopia also hosts an annual music festival called Bowl Bash, which draws skaters and music lovers from all over the country.
7. Marseille Skatepark (Marseille, France)
Considered by many to be the best skatepark in Europe, Marseille Skatepark is a massive concrete park that features a mix of bowls, transitions, and street obstacles. The park has hosted several high-profile skateboarding events, including the Pro Bowl Contest, which attracts some of the best bowl skaters in the world.
8. Element YMCA Skatecamp (Julian, California, USA)
Located in the mountains of Southern California, Element YMCA Skatecamp is a summer camp for skateboarders of all ages. The camp features a mix of indoor and outdoor parks, as well as professional instruction from some of the best skateboarders in the world.
9. X Games Oslo (Oslo, Norway)
Held in the heart of Oslo, Norway, X Games Oslo features a world-class skatepark that is built specifically for the event. The park features a mix of street and transition elements, as well as a massive vert ramp that has been skated by some of the best vert skaters in the world.
10. Melbourne Skatepark (Melbourne, Australia)
Located on the banks of the Yarra River, Melbourne Skatepark is a sprawling concrete park that features a mix of bowls, ledges, and rails. The park is known for its smooth transitions and diverse obstacles, making it a favorite spot for skaters of all levels.
In conclusion, these are just a few of the best skateparks around the world that every skater should visit at least once in their lifetime. Whether you’re a beginner looking to hone your skills or a seasoned pro looking for a new challenge, these parks offer something for everyone. So grab your board, hit the road, and experience the thrill of skating at one of these iconic skateparks.