Ten important skateboard spots in Quito, Ecuador
Parque La Carolina Skatepark
Parque La Carolina Skatepark is the beating heart of Quito's skateboarding culture. Located within the sprawling Parque La Carolina, this skatepark is the epicenter of skateboarders' activity in the city. With a mix of transition and street features, it caters to skaters of all styles. The park's smooth concrete surfaces, half-pipes, and quarter pipes provide the ideal space for practicing tricks and honing skills. On weekends, the park buzzes with skaters from all over the city, making it a perfect place to connect with fellow skateboarders.
La Ronda
For skaters who crave a unique and historic backdrop, La Ronda offers an enchanting experience. This charming, narrow street located in Quito's colonial district, boasts cobblestone surfaces and ancient architecture. While it may not be the smoothest ride, the challenges presented by the uneven terrain and narrow streets make for an exciting and rewarding skate session. Skating in La Ronda allows for a mix of cultural immersion and adrenaline-pumping excitement.
Parque Metropolitano
Parque Metropolitano, Quito's largest urban park, offers an array of skate spots surrounded by lush greenery. The park's undulating landscape is perfect for skaters seeking a more natural environment. Numerous ledges, banks, and stair sets dot the park, providing endless opportunities for creativity. As a bonus, skaters can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city while cruising through the park's winding pathways.
Tribuna del Sur Skatepark
Located in the southern part of Quito, Tribuna del Sur Skatepark is a mecca for street-skating enthusiasts. This skatepark boasts an impressive selection of ledges, rails, and stairs that mimic real urban settings. Skaters can spend hours perfecting lines and mastering tricks in this dynamic and challenging environment. The park's popularity also contributes to a strong sense of camaraderie among the local skateboarding community.
Plaza Gabriela Mistral
Plaza Gabriela Mistral is a hidden gem for skaters seeking a versatile street spot. This plaza features a combination of ledges, manual pads, and open spaces, making it an excellent location for both beginners and experienced skateboarders. Surrounded by modern architecture and green spaces, Plaza Gabriela Mistral offers an inviting and relaxed ambiance, ideal for spending a laid-back afternoon with friends.
Parque de los Recuerdos Skatepark
Parque de los Recuerdos Skatepark is a premier destination for bowl and transition skaters. The park's concrete bowl, inspired by the iconic pools of California, allows skaters to carve, grind, and catch air to their heart's content. The challenging and dynamic layout attracts both local and international skaters, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and progression.
Plaza de las Americas
Plaza de las Americas serves as an urban playground for skaters looking to challenge their skills. This plaza is characterized by an array of ledges, stairs, and banks, offering a diverse range of obstacles to conquer. The surrounding shopping centers and bustling urban environment create a vibrant atmosphere, and skaters can often be found pushing their limits well into the evening.
Parque La Alameda
Parque La Alameda, located in the heart of Quito, offers a unique fusion of history and skateboarding. Surrounded by landmarks, museums, and cultural sites, this park houses various street-style obstacles that blend seamlessly with the city's architectural charm. Skaters can enjoy the picturesque setting while embracing the challenge of navigating diverse terrains.
Parque Metropolitano Bellavista
Parque Metropolitano Bellavista is another skateboarding gem nestled within Quito's urban jungle. This park features a mix of street and transition elements that cater to different skateboarding styles. The skatepark's strategic layout encourages a continuous flow, allowing skaters to connect tricks and explore their creativity. Additionally, the park's stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains add to the overall skateboarding experience.
Ciudad Mitad del Mundo
Last but not least, Ciudad Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World City) offers a one-of-a-kind skateboarding experience. Situated on the equator line, this iconic site boasts smooth concrete surfaces and open spaces, perfect for longboarding and cruising. Skaters can savor the thrill of crossing the northern and southern hemispheres on their boards, making it a truly memorable and symbolic skateboarding location.
Skateboarding is tribal and most locals are welcoming, but if you're new to a spot, or just passing through, have respect for the locals. Listen. Be smart. Have fun.
A human being
Art can change the world – and everybody is an artist. Those who scribble stickmen. Those who paint chapel ceilings. Those who tattoo biceps. Those who are careful with pigment on canvas. Those who create fantasy characters. Those who paint pet portraits. Those who yarn bomb. Those who write poems on crappy old cardboard.
My art lives on the bottom of skateboard decks. It's designed for you to destroy. For you, the rider, my art may come second to the deck’s ability to perform – and that’s awesome. To me, art comes first. Always.
It’s how I think. It’s who I am. It’s what I am.
A machine
This article has been created with the help of artificial intelligence platforms ChatGPT and Bard. If there are inaccuracies or there are opportunities for improvement, please let me know.
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