A Guide to the Best East Austin Skate Parks
Sick of “No Skateboarding” Signs?
Words by Abby L. Johnson Photos by Baptiste Despois
It can be extremely annoying to see a beautifully paved, empty lot ripe for skating only to find one of those authoritative signs declaring the unused space off-limits. While we all like to bend the rules occasionally, Austin has plenty of designated skate spots for those days.
Like many hobbies, the proliferation of social media has led to an uptick in mainstream interest in the skateboarding culture birthed in the 90s. Tutorials are more accessible, and the minuscule chance of turning kickflip skills into a fruitful endeavor is democratized by the monetization of Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube videos.Â
Similarly, the nostalgia-driven resurgence of roller skating is attributable to the soothing viral videos of folks dancing down the sidewalk on quads that are increasingly common. Each of these pastimes is evolving in the digital era, and whether brand new to skating, a seasoned self-proclaimed pro, or picking up an old hobby where that dropped off in 1998, Austin has several local spots to perfect your skills.
Mabel Davis District Park Skate Park
Complete with a skate bowl and streetscape elements, this park opened in 2005 and claims the title of Austin’s first public skate park. It’s an ideal spot for those who want to jump right in and curious observers alike. With 12,000 square feet of concrete (about twice the area of a basketball court), this park can accommodate the busiest of days.
3427 Parker Ln.
Patterson Park Miniramp
Today’s skaters owe quite a bit to the grassroot efforts of generations past. Local skaters raised the funds for Patterson Park’s concrete mini ramp. Built in 2006, this modest ramp located near Airport Boulevard is great for beginners practicing dropping in or more advanced skaters focusing on fine-tuning a trick.
4200 Brookview Rd.
Gaylord Sackler Skate Park & Pump Track
Opening in August 2022, the newest designated skate zone is the state-of-the-art Gaylord Sackler Skate Park in the Mueller neighborhood. With shaded canopies, quarter pipes, a half-bowl, and more, it’s perhaps the most concerted recent effort to provide skaters with a comfortable place to gather.
3730 Manor Rd.
Roller Derby Track at Bartholomew Park
This is the perfect place for those who prefer their skates strapped onto their feet. Quads or in-lines, roller skates reign supreme at this public derby track. Whether focusing on speed or perfecting tricks, this smooth track is simple and spacious enough for either. It is also where several local roller derby teams practice.
2104 E 51st St.
Travis County’s Northeast Metropolitan Park
Since 2012, Northeast Metro Skate Park has been an irreplaceable skate hub. This monstrous park beats out the others listed here in size, boasting an impressive 41,450 square feet of concrete. The park is open from 8am to twilight, and even a full day of skating may not be enough time to master the entire park. In addition to the skate park, Northeast Metropolitan Park is home to a world-class BMX track, a splash pad, sports fields, and hike and bike trails.
15500 Sun Light Near Way, Pflugerville
Local Skate Shops
Though the Eastside is yet to house its own skate shop, Austin has several from which to choose. Medusa Skates is a women-owned shop catering to roller skaters, while No-Comply and Apparition Skateboards serve local skateboarders.
