Ten important skateboard spots in Springield, Missouri
1. Jordan Valley Skatepark
The crown jewel of Springfield’s skateboarding scene is undoubtedly the Springfield Skate Park, commonly known as Jordan Valley Skatepark. Located in Jordan Valley Park, this skatepark offers one of the most comprehensive facilities for skaters in the city. Designed for skaters of all levels, it includes a mix of bowls, rails, ledges, and stair sets. The park features both street-style elements, such as manual pads and handrails, and transition elements, like mini-ramps and a flow bowl. Its central location and extensive facilities make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
What makes this park truly special is its community-centered environment. Local skaters regularly host events, competitions, and lessons here, fostering a welcoming space for beginners to learn the ropes. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned skater, Jordan Valley Skatepark offers something to challenge your skills and enhance your skateboarding experience.
2. Silver Springs Park
Silver Springs Park is a less crowded spot that provides skaters with a more relaxed environment compared to larger, busier parks. The park has a modest but functional skate area featuring rails and a few ramps, which are perfect for practicing basic tricks. The quiet atmosphere makes it an ideal location for skaters who are looking to improve their skills without the pressure of a large crowd.
The surrounding greenery and open space also provide a nice aesthetic and peaceful vibe, which can be a refreshing change from urban skate spots. Additionally, the park's open layout allows for freeform skating, making it a versatile place for riders of all kinds.
3. Missouri State University
For urban skaters, the Missouri State University campus is a prime location. The smooth surfaces, stair sets, ledges, and handrails found throughout the campus provide ample opportunities for street-style skating. MSU’s iconic Carrington Hall steps are popular among skateboarders looking to challenge themselves with more technical tricks. The architecture and modern infrastructure of the university make for a perfect backdrop for filming skate videos or capturing the perfect trick.
The campus is large, allowing skaters to explore various spots without ever getting bored. However, it's important to note that skateboarding is technically not allowed in certain areas of the campus, so skaters should be mindful of university policies and avoid skating in restricted zones to avoid any conflicts with security.
4. Lone Star Indoor Sports & Events Center
Sequiota Park offers a more unconventional skateboarding experience, blending nature with urban elements. Although it’s not a traditional skatepark, the park has several paved trails and paths that are perfect for cruising and practicing flat-ground tricks. Skaters can enjoy a laid-back session while taking in the scenic surroundings, including caves and streams. The smooth, well-maintained paths make this a great spot for longboarding as well.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Sequiota Park provides a unique challenge due to its natural inclines and varied terrain. Skaters who enjoy the combination of nature and skating will find this park an enjoyable break from the typical urban skate spots.
5. Grant Beach Skatepark
Grant Beach Skatepark is another popular destination among local skateboarders. It’s a smaller, neighborhood-style skatepark, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in creativity. The park features a couple of mini-ramps, a funbox, and a few ledges, making it perfect for intermediate skaters who are looking to improve their skills.
What makes Grant Beach Skatepark stand out is its local, laid-back vibe. It's less busy compared to Jordan Valley Skatepark, making it a great option for skaters looking for a more intimate setting. The surrounding Grant Beach Park offers other amenities like basketball courts and picnic areas, making it a fun spot to spend a full day of outdoor activities.
6. Park Central Square
For skaters who love the thrill of skating in the heart of the city, Park Central Square is a prime location. This downtown plaza is one of Springfield’s most famous street skate spots. It features smooth pavements, stairs, and a variety of ledges and handrails. The urban landscape of the square gives skaters the opportunity to try technical tricks while being surrounded by the buzz of downtown life.
Skating in this public area comes with its challenges, including the presence of pedestrians and traffic. However, for experienced skaters, the vibe and challenge of skating in such an iconic city location make it worth the effort. Just be cautious of city regulations as skating might not always be permitted in certain areas of downtown.
7. Doling Park
Doling Park is primarily known for its family-friendly atmosphere and scenic walking trails, but it also offers an informal skateboarding experience. While it doesn't have a dedicated skatepark, the paved paths and concrete walkways are often frequented by skaters, particularly longboarders and cruisers who enjoy the smooth surfaces for cruising.
Doling Park’s versatility makes it an interesting spot for casual sessions. The park's location on the north side of Springfield makes it a convenient choice for skaters living in that area who want to skate without traveling far. Additionally, the park’s quiet and relaxed atmosphere makes it a good spot for solo skaters or those just looking to have a mellow skate session.
8. Battlefield Mall
One of Springfield's unconventional but popular skate spots is the Battlefield Mall parking lot. During off-hours, this expansive space provides a smooth, open area perfect for flat-ground tricks, cruising, and even setting up your own makeshift skate obstacles. The parking lot’s vastness gives skaters ample space to practice without the confinement of more crowded areas.
However, skaters need to be aware of security patrols in this area. While skating isn't officially prohibited, there’s always a risk of being asked to leave by mall staff. Despite that, many skaters continue to enjoy this location, especially at night when the lot is mostly empty.
9. Phelps Grove Park
Phelps Grove Park is a multi-purpose public park with wide sidewalks and plenty of open space, which skaters have long taken advantage of. While it’s not a traditional skatepark, the park’s layout is perfect for longboarding and cruising. The park features several smooth walkways and gentle slopes, making it a relaxing spot for skaters who prefer a more mellow experience.
Phelps Grove also attracts skaters because of its proximity to downtown Springfield and the MSU campus, meaning it can be easily incorporated into a longer skate route around the city. The park’s quiet, tree-lined pathways make it a popular choice for skaters looking to unwind and enjoy a slower-paced ride.
10. Ozark Greenways Trails
For skaters who enjoy distance skating, the Ozark Greenways Trails are an excellent option. These trails are a part of a larger, regional trail system that offers miles of paved paths perfect for longboarding and cruising. The smooth pavement and scenic views make the Greenways Trails a great option for skaters who prefer a more extended ride, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city.
One of the most popular sections for skaters is the Galloway Creek Greenway, which stretches for several miles and features both flat terrain and mild inclines. The trails are multi-use, so skaters need to be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians. Still, the wide paths and scenic routes make it an appealing spot for skaters who enjoy combining skateboarding with a bit of exploration.
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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