When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Andy Kessler Skate Park
Why Andy Kessler Skate Park is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Andy Kessler Skate Park, nestled in Riverside Park near 108th Street and Riverside Drive on Manhattan's Upper West Side, offers a vibrant and versatile skateboarding environment that appeals to skaters of all levels. Spanning approximately 30,000 square feet, this skatepark is celebrated for its unique combination of a street plaza and a sizeable 11-foot deep bowl, providing diverse terrain for street and bowl skating enthusiasts. The street plaza features classic elements such as stairs, ledges, rails, banks, and a 4-foot mini ramp, giving skaters the opportunity to practice a wide range of tricks and maneuvers. Open daily from early morning to late at night, this park is accessible and convenient, making it an ideal place to meet friends and enjoy skateboarding in an urban greenspace. The bowl section is open seasonally with specific hours and requires safety gear and signed waivers, underscoring the park’s commitment to safety. Named after the skateboarding legend Andy Kessler, the park holds historical significance as Manhattan's first full-sized public skatepark, designed by Kessler himself, which contributes to its cultural importance in the NYC skate community. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself in the deep bowl or casually hang out on the street plaza, Andy Kessler Skate Park is a standout destination for skaters seeking both skill development and community connection.
Here's what people think of Andy Kessler Skate Park
As of recent, Andy Kessler Skate Park holds a 4.1-star rating based on 142 reviews.
Users consistently praise Andy Kessler Skate Park for its expansive, well-designed layout and the variety of skate features it offers. Many highlight the street plaza and deep bowl as key attractions that cater to different styles and skill levels, with the park’s size and quality of concrete drawing positive remarks. Positive reviews often mention the park’s welcoming and vibrant atmosphere, the historical significance associated with Andy Kessler’s legacy, and the convenient hours, which make it accessible to a broad audience. Several reviewers appreciate the location within Riverside Park’s scenic surroundings, combining nature with urban skateboarding culture. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers around the seasonal and limited hours for the bowl, which can be restrictive for those seeking more consistent access. A few users mention the lack of supervision in the street plaza area and note that the park can become crowded during peak times, which may detract from the experience. Additionally, the safety requirement for pads and waivers in the bowl section is sometimes seen as a barrier for casual visitors. In conclusion, while minor concerns exist mostly regarding access and crowding, the overall user reviews underscore Andy Kessler Skate Park’s value as a premier skating venue in Manhattan, renowned for its design, heritage, and community vibe.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Richard Lenz
This is a nice concrete skatepark in a great location. It's a gigantic improvement from the previous version. If I could add to it, I would put quarter pipes and banks on the north and south sides of the park, because currently it's a challenge to get enough speed for features in the center of the park. Thank you Andy Kessler for your advocacy.
Cass Christopher
This place feels like a 2nd home already and we’ve only just started going. I love how there are boards, scooters, bikes and skates being operated by both the young and the old equally. This place has a cool and welcoming vibe and lots of good people.
G L
The best possible beginner to medium friendly skate park in NYC. Pier 62 is generally too challenging and crowded for many, and Thomas Jefferson is slightly easier but usually empty. If you're in the UWS or Uptown part of Manhattan this is a solid destination.
Sweetpea Showroom
Very clean skate park. There is always somebody using the park. It is next to the soccer fields and the pickleball courts. There is a water fountain and water bottle filler. With ramps, incline, skate bowl, one can try and learn and perform many tricks and have fun with friends!
ThePandaPhotographer
The problem with this skatepark is that it’s an issue to get to and out from. No handicap Accessibility at 108th Street for those that live or visit in the neighborhood. You have to enter all the way down at 96th street. Not a fan on the location of this park. Last time I been to this park was 2001 and all this remodeling and not talks about fair entrance for all. NYCParks need to make a skatepark in Central Park “such a better park” hands down
How to reach Andy Kessler Skate Park
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Why Andy Kessler Skate Park may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Andy Kessler Skate Park with your friends? This iconic skate park is not just a place to skate; it’s a vibrant community hub that offers a dynamic setting perfect for socializing and sharing the joy of skating. Named after Andy Kessler, a legendary New York skateboarder and influential figure in skate culture, the park carries a rich heritage that resonates with locals and visitors alike. Its location in Riverside Park on Manhattan’s Upper West Side makes it easily accessible, surrounded by beautiful green spaces that invite gatherings and outdoor fun beyond just skating. The expansive 30,000-square-foot concrete park provides enough room for groups of any size to spread out, challenge each other, and improve their skills together. With features suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned skaters, Andy Kessler Skate Park fosters camaraderie and friendly competition, making it an ideal meeting point. Whether your group consists of long-time skaters or first-timers, the park’s inviting environment encourages everyone to connect, learn, and have a blast. It’s more than just a skate spot — it’s a vibrant community where lasting memories with friends and family are made.
What activities can you enjoy at Andy Kessler Skate Park? The park is thoughtfully designed to cater to different skateboarding interests and abilities. It features two main areas: the street plaza section and the iconic deep bowl. The street plaza area simulates an urban street skating experience with elements like stairs, ledges, rails, banks, bank-to-ledge combinations, and a 4-foot mini ramp. These features allow skaters to practice a variety of tricks and styles, from technical grinds to flowing transitions. This area remains open daily from early morning until late at night, providing plenty of time for groups to gather whenever it suits them best. The bowl section, which is an 11-foot-deep concrete structure, offers a thrilling skate experience reminiscent of classic West Coast skateparks. It is open seasonally during the summer months with specific hours and requires users to wear full protective gear. These two complementary spaces make the park versatile, offering a little something for everyone in your meetup — whether you prefer street-style tricks or the challenge of bowl skating. Moreover, inline skaters are welcome, expanding the variety of activities your group can share in this vibrant skate environment.
Why is Andy Kessler Skate Park perfect for a group meetup? Hosting your friends or family here taps into the park’s community spirit and accessibility. The large size of the park allows groups to spread out without feeling crowded, so everyone can skate comfortably whether practicing individually or cheering each other on. The park’s design encourages interaction, with areas where skaters naturally congregate, such as the mini ramp and bowl lending themselves to spectators and participants bonding over shared stunts and challenges. Since the street plaza section is operational nearly all day long, groups can pick a time that works for everyone without the pressure of strict closing hours. The bowl’s seasonal availability adds excitement in summer, providing a specialized experience for those who want to elevate their skills. Safety is also prioritized by requiring helmets and other protective gear, especially in the bowl, letting participants feel secure while pushing their limits. Beyond skating, Riverside Park itself offers picnic spots, benches, and scenic views nearby, making it easy to plan a full day outing that mixes skate sessions with relaxing social time. This holistic setting nurtures both active fun and leisurely hangouts, making Andy Kessler Skate Park a standout choice for group events.
What makes the location and history of Andy Kessler Skate Park special? Sitting on the lower level of Riverside Park near 108th Street and Riverside Drive, the skate park is nestled in a lush urban oasis that brings a refreshing balance to its energetic skate scene. Riverside Park’s riverside trails, open green lawns, and inviting atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for a day of skating combined with outdoor enjoyment. The park is also a tribute to Andy Kessler, a beloved figure in New York’s skateboarding history who helped pioneer skate culture on the East Coast. Naming the park after him connects visitors not just to a physical place but to a legacy of innovation, community, and passion for skating. Andy Kessler’s influence as a skater, ramp designer, and advocate for public skateparks highlights the park’s role as a landmark and a gathering place for generations of skaters following his vision. The park’s establishment in the 1990s marked Manhattan’s first full-sized public skate park, making it a historic site in the city’s skateboarding narrative. This blend of natural beauty, urban access, and meaningful heritage adds depth to your visit, enriching every meetup with a sense of purpose and connection to New York’s vibrant skate culture.
How does the park accommodate safety and user guidelines to ensure a smooth experience? Andy Kessler Skate Park is built to balance fun and safety, with clear rules and design features that support both. The street plaza section remains unsupervised but requires that all skaters wear helmets and encourages the use of pads, significantly reducing the risk of injury during everyday skate sessions. The bowl area, given its more advanced nature, enforces stricter rules, requiring a signed liability waiver and full protective gear, including helmets, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards, especially for younger skaters under 18. This attention to safety ensures that beginners, intermediates, and expert skaters can all enjoy the park confidently. The park prohibits bicycles to reduce hazards and maintain the quality of the skate environment, though inline skates are allowed, increasing accessibility and diversity among users. These rules reflect a well-managed space where community members can trust one another and the operators who maintain the park. By fostering a culture of responsibility combined with creative freedom, Andy Kessler Skate Park provides a secure setting for groups to have an enjoyable and worry-free meetup.
What nearby amenities and conveniences enhance a meetup at Andy Kessler Skate Park? Its location inside Riverside Park means your skate day can easily extend into a full outdoor adventure. The surrounding Riverside Park offers walking paths, picnic areas, benches, and lush green spaces where non-skaters or those taking breaks can relax and socialize. Nearby public transportation options and parking facilities make it accessible for groups traveling from different parts of the city or beyond. There are also possibilities for local dining spots along Riverside Drive that can complement your meetup with food and drinks before or after skating. The park’s proximity to other Riverside Park facilities, such as playgrounds and sports fields, means families with children or multi-activity groups can enjoy varied entertainment options. This infrastructure makes organizing group events less complicated and more enjoyable, turning a skate meetup into a seamless day of fun activities for everyone involved. Whether you’re planning a casual hangout or a more structured skating event, the convenience of the location and nearby amenities enrich your experience.
How has Andy Kessler Skate Park evolved to meet skaters’ needs? Since its creation in the mid-1990s as Manhattan’s first full-sized skatepark, Andy Kessler Skate Park has undergone renovations and redesigns to stay current with evolving skateboarding trends. The park was renovated in 2013 and saw its street course section refreshed in 2020, demonstrating ongoing commitment to quality and relevance. These updates maintain the park’s reputation as a cutting-edge skate destination, offering new features and resurfacing to improve ride quality and safety. The park has kept its dedication to the legacy of Andy Kessler, integrating a California-style design that blends flow and technical street elements, aiming to meet diverse preferences within the skate community. The continuous enhancements signal that the park is not static but a living environment adapting to the desires of its users. For groups considering where to host a meetup, this means they can experience a modern, well-maintained skate setting with up-to-date features that help keep their skating fresh and exciting.
What makes the community and culture around Andy Kessler Skate Park unique? More than just a physical location, Andy Kessler Skate Park embodies a strong community ethos that welcomes skaters of all backgrounds and skill levels. The park is known for its friendly and supportive atmosphere, where veterans encourage newcomers and everyone shares tips and stories. It is a place to celebrate skateboarding’s creative spirit and its role as a social binder. Events, informal meetups, and skill-sharing sessions often emerge organically here, creating a dynamic social fabric that enriches the experience well beyond skating itself. Naming the park after Andy Kessler, who was celebrated as a builder and mentor in the skate world, reflects this culture of mutual respect and growth. The park’s role as a communal space for connection, inspiration, and fun makes it outstanding as a meetup spot. It is a hub where groups can not only skate but connect with a vibrant local culture that values friendship, creativity, and the pure joy of riding together. Hosting your friends here means becoming part of this welcoming legacy.
In summary, Andy Kessler Skate Park offers a unique and vibrant setting to gather with friends or family that combines rich history, diverse skate features, safety-conscious rules, community culture, and convenient location. Its size and design accommodate groups well, making it easy to organize meetups where everyone can find something enjoyable and challenging in a supportive environment. Whether you want to casually hang out, push your skateboarding skills, or soak in a shared social atmosphere, this skate park delivers an ideal venue that continually evolves to meet the needs of its community. If you’re seeking a place to rally that mixes recreation, culture, and camaraderie, Andy Kessler Skate Park stands out as an exceptional destination in New York City’s skate scene.