This Urban Park Rangers walk follows skateboarding's New York story through the spots that made it: the Brooklyn Banks under the bridge, Foley Square, Columbus Park, Kim-Lau Square, Alfred E. Smith Park and Coleman Skatepark. It covers the people and moments that shaped the city's skate culture over about a mile. If you skate, used to skate or just love street history, this is an unusually specific free tour.
What to expect
The group meets at Coleman Playground and walks roughly a mile with stops at each landmark, where rangers share the history. Expect an easy pace, street crossings and plenty of photo stops. Rangers share stories about the people and moments that defined New York skateboarding along the way.
Good to know
- No registration required; meet at Coleman Playground under the Manhattan Bridge.
- The F to East Broadway is the closest subway to the meeting point.
- Wear comfortable shoes for about a mile of walking.
- Great for teens and skaters of any age.
- Bring water; the walk is outdoors the whole time.
Going? Keep it.
Common questions
Do I need to sign up for the skatepark history walk?
No. NYC Parks lists it as free with no registration required.
How long is the walk?
About one mile through the Lower East Side and Chinatown.