Skateboarding has become an increasingly popular sport and lifestyle over the years, with new skateparks popping up all over the globe. These parks are not only a place for skaters to practice their skills, but also a hub for creativity, camaraderie, and self-expression. From small DIY spots to world-class facilities, here is a list of the top 10 best skateparks around the world.
1. Burnside Skatepark – Portland, USA
Located under the Burnside Bridge in Portland, Oregon, Burnside Skatepark is known as one of the most iconic skateparks in the world. Built by skateboarders in the early 1990s, this park features a mix of street and transition obstacles, including ledges, rails, banks, and bowls. The park’s unique design and DIY ethos have inspired skaters from all over the world to visit and experience its legendary terrain.
2. The Berrics – Los Angeles, USA
Founded by professional skateboarders Steve Berra and Eric Koston, The Berrics is a private indoor skatepark located in Los Angeles, California. Known for its pristine floors, ledges, rails, and manual pads, The Berrics has hosted some of the most famous skateboarding events and videos in the industry. With an invitation-only policy, this park is a mecca for skaters looking to push their skills to the next level.
3. SMP Skatepark – Shanghai, China
Opened in 2019, SMP Skatepark is China’s largest and most advanced skatepark to date. Designed by California Skateparks, this state-of-the-art facility features a combination of street and transition elements, as well as a massive concrete bowl. With its modern amenities and world-class design, SMP Skatepark has quickly become a popular destination for local and international skaters alike.
4. Faelledparken Skatepark – Copenhagen, Denmark
Located in the heart of Copenhagen, Faelledparken Skatepark is one of the largest concrete skateparks in Europe. Designed by renowned skatepark builder Rune Glifberg, this park features a variety of street obstacles, ledges, banks, and transition elements. With its flowing layout and smooth surfaces, Faelledparken Skatepark offers skaters of all levels a challenging and rewarding experience.
5. Malmö Skatepark – Malmö, Sweden
Built for the annual Vans Park Series competition, Malmö Skatepark is one of the most progressive and innovative skateparks in the world. Designed by renowned skatepark builder and former professional skateboarder Pontus Alv, this park features a mix of concrete bowls, banks, transitions, and ledges. With its unique Scandinavian design and picturesque location, Malmö Skatepark has become a must-visit destination for skateboarders from around the world.
6. The Cradle Skatepark – Johannesburg, South Africa
Located in the heart of Johannesburg, The Cradle Skatepark is a world-class facility that caters to skaters of all ages and skill levels. Designed by South African skatepark builder Indigo Skate Camp, this park features a mix of street and transition obstacles, as well as a vert ramp and mini ramp. With its diverse terrain and welcoming atmosphere, The Cradle Skatepark has become a hub for South Africa’s growing skateboarding community.
7. Parque das Gerações – Lisbon, Portugal
Situated along the Tagus River in Lisbon, Parque das Gerações is one of the largest and most diverse skateparks in Portugal. Designed by local skateboarding legend Ruben Rodrigues, this park features a mix of street obstacles, ledges, banks, and transition elements. With its scenic views and vibrant atmosphere, Parque das Gerações is a popular destination for skaters looking to explore Lisbon’s rich skateboarding culture.
8. Médiacité Skatepark – Liège, Belgium
Located inside the Médiacité shopping mall in Liège, Belgium, Médiacité Skatepark is a unique indoor skatepark that offers skaters a blend of street and transition obstacles. Designed by Belgian skatepark builder Betonbrothers, this park features a mix of ledges, rails, banks, and bowls, as well as a mini ramp and vert ramp. With its convenient location and modern amenities, Médiacité Skatepark has become a popular spot for skaters to escape the elements and skate year-round.
9. House of Vans – London, UK
Situated beneath the Waterloo train station in London, House of Vans is a multi-functional space that includes a skatepark, art gallery, music venue, and cafe. Designed by Vans in collaboration with professional skateboarders, this indoor skatepark features a mix of street and transition elements, as well as a mini ramp and bowl. With its unique layout and vibrant atmosphere, House of Vans has become a thriving cultural hub for skaters, artists, and music lovers alike.
10. Empire Skatepark – Montreal, Canada
Located in the heart of Montreal, Quebec, Empire Skatepark is a massive indoor facility that offers skaters a wide range of street and transition obstacles. Designed by Quebecois skatepark builder Convic, this park features a mix of ledges, rails, banks, and bowls, as well as a vert ramp and mini ramp. With its spacious layout and friendly staff, Empire Skatepark provides skaters with a welcoming and inclusive environment to hone their skills and connect with other members of the community.
In conclusion, the top 10 best skateparks around the world offer skaters a unique and diverse range of terrain, obstacles, and experiences. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or a seasoned pro looking to push your limits, these parks provide something for everyone. So grab your board, gather your crew, and hit up one of these amazing skateparks for an unforgettable session of shredding and camaraderie. Skate on!