Best Skateparks in the US for Every Kind of Skater (2026)
Legendary DIY spots, historic bowls and huge modern parks: the American skateparks every skater should know, with the history behind them.
America's Skatepark Culture
The US has thousands of skateparks, from tiny neighborhood spots to massive concrete playgrounds. A few stand out for their history, their design or their sheer size. This list mixes legendary DIY parks, historic bowls and big modern builds. Park rules, hours and conditions change, so check the city or park's official information before you travel.
Skateparks at a Glance
| Skatepark | Location | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Burnside | Portland, Oregon | The original DIY skatepark (1990) |
| FDR Skatepark | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Legendary DIY park under I-95 |
| Venice Beach Skatepark | Los Angeles, California | Oceanfront bowls and street (2009) |
| Kona Skatepark | Jacksonville, Florida | Surviving 1970s private park (1977) |
| Ocean Bowl | Ocean City, Maryland | Oldest operating municipal park (1976) |
| Lauridsen Skatepark | Des Moines, Iowa | Cited as largest in the US (~88,000 sq ft) |
| etnies Skatepark | Lake Forest, California | Large free park (~62,000 sq ft) |
| City Walk Skatepark | Birmingham, Alabama | Large under-interstate park (57,000+ sq ft) |
| Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark | Houston, Texas | 30,000 sq ft in-ground park |
The Legends
Burnside Skatepark, Portland, Oregon
In 1990, skaters began pouring concrete under the east end of the Burnside Bridge, without the city's permission. The park they built section by section is credited with starting the DIY skatepark movement, and it was later accepted by the city. Skatepark builders Grindline and Dreamland trace their roots to it. Expect steep, gnarly transitions and a strong local scene; respect the locals.
FDR Skatepark, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Built by skaters beneath the I-95 overpass in South Philadelphia, FDR is one of the best-known DIY parks in the country, with huge, raw concrete transitions inspired by the Burnside ethos.
Venice Beach Skatepark, Los Angeles, California
Opened in 2009 as the Dennis "Polar Bear" Agnew Memorial Skatepark, Venice sits right on the boardwalk in the area where Dogtown skating was born. It has bowls and street features and draws crowds of spectators. See the history in skateboarding documentaries.
Historic Parks
Kona Skatepark, Jacksonville, Florida
Founded in 1977, Kona is one of the few private 1970s skateparks still operating. It hosted the 1978 U.S. Open of Skateboarding and remains family-run.
Ocean Bowl, Ocean City, Maryland
Opened in 1976, Ocean Bowl is described as the oldest operating municipal skatepark in the US, a living piece of skate history near the beach.
The Big New Parks
Lauridsen Skatepark, Des Moines, Iowa
At roughly 88,000 square feet, Lauridsen is often cited as the largest skatepark in the US, with terrain for a wide range of abilities.
etnies Skatepark, Lake Forest, California
A free park of about 62,000 square feet, described as the largest free skatepark in California.
City Walk Skatepark, Birmingham, Alabama
Part of a redeveloped space beneath the interstate, at more than 57,000 square feet it's cited as the largest skatepark in the Southeast.
Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark, Houston, Texas
A 30,000-square-foot in-ground public park in Houston with bowls and street features.
Skatepark Etiquette
- Watch before you drop in and learn the flow.
- Take turns; don't snake.
- Don't sit or stand in landing zones.
- Keep the park clean and follow posted rules.
- Respect locals, especially at DIY parks.
Gear Up
Wear a helmet and pads, especially in bowls; see knee pads and safety gear. Learn how to drop in, and explore the best skateparks in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous skatepark in the US?
Burnside in Portland, Oregon, and Venice Beach in Los Angeles are two of the most famous. Burnside is credited with starting the DIY skatepark movement.
What is the largest skatepark in the US?
Lauridsen Skatepark in Des Moines, Iowa, is often cited as the largest in the US at about 88,000 square feet.
What is the oldest skatepark in the US?
Ocean Bowl in Ocean City, Maryland, opened in 1976 and is described as the oldest operating municipal skatepark in the US. Kona in Jacksonville, Florida, dates to 1977 and is one of the few surviving 1970s private parks.
Are skateparks free?
Most public skateparks are free. Some private and indoor parks charge entry or require membership and waivers.
Do I need a helmet at a skatepark?
Rules vary by park and city. Wearing a helmet is always a good idea, and many parks require one.