Ten important skateboard spots in Bloomington, Indiana
1. Switchyard Park Skatepark
Switchyard Park Skatepark is Bloomington’s crown jewel for skateboarding enthusiasts. This modern park features a well-designed layout that caters to skaters of all experience levels. With smooth concrete surfaces, ledges, rails, and transitions, the park ensures a versatile riding experience. Its standout features include a deep bowl, a mini-ramp section, and a spacious street plaza. Located in the heart of Switchyard Park, the skatepark also benefits from a scenic backdrop, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Pro Tips:
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- The park is well-lit at night, allowing for evening sessions.
2. Indiana University Campus
The Indiana University (IU) campus is a treasure trove of street skating spots. Renowned for its picturesque architecture, the campus is dotted with stair sets, handrails, and ledges. Popular areas include the Sample Gates, where skaters test their skills on the iconic stone ledges, and the Dunn Meadow Bridge, which provides a smooth ride and creative opportunities.
Pro Tips:
- Be mindful of foot traffic, especially during the school year.
- Security may discourage skating in certain areas, so respect campus rules.
3. B-Line Trail
The B-Line Trail is a multi-use path that weaves through Bloomington’s downtown area. While primarily designed for pedestrians and cyclists, certain sections of the trail are ideal for cruising and freestyle skateboarding. Smooth asphalt, open spaces, and occasional benches make this spot a favorite for skaters looking for a relaxed session.
Pro Tips:
- Stick to quieter hours to avoid conflicts with other trail users.
- Use the trail as a link between other skate spots in the city.
4. City Hall Plaza
Bloomington’s City Hall Plaza is a hotspot for street skaters. This urban location features marble ledges, stairs, and open flatground, making it perfect for practicing technical tricks. The plaza is centrally located and has become a social hub for local skaters.
Pro Tips:
- The spot is busiest in the evening when the plaza is less frequented by city employees.
- Clean up after yourself to maintain a positive relationship with city authorities.
5. People’s Park
People’s Park is a quirky public space near downtown Bloomington. Its benches, curbs, and ledges are frequently used by skaters for practicing grinds and manuals. The park’s unique vibe, with colorful murals and an artsy crowd, adds to its charm as a skate spot.
Pro Tips:
- Be respectful of other park visitors.
- It’s a great spot to warm up before heading to more challenging locations nearby.
6. Bryan Park Pathways
Bryan Park is a family-friendly space with smooth pathways and plenty of open flatground. While not a traditional skate spot, the park is excellent for beginners learning to ride or practice basic tricks. Advanced skaters often use the park to create lines incorporating natural obstacles like park benches and curbs.
Pro Tips:
- Avoid peak hours when families and joggers dominate the pathways.
- Use the park’s shaded areas for summer sessions.
7. Third Street Ledges
Located near the intersection of Third Street and South Walnut, this area is a well-known skate spot for its long, waxed ledges and open flatground. The ledges are ideal for practicing grinds and slides, while the smooth pavement makes it great for flatground tricks.
Pro Tips:
- Bring wax, as some sections of the ledges can be rough.
- The spot is close to local shops, making it easy to grab refreshments.
8. Kirkwood Avenue
Kirkwood Avenue is Bloomington’s bustling main street, known for its restaurants, cafes, and eclectic shops. For skaters, it’s a goldmine of urban features, including stair sets, rails, and unique architectural elements. The best time to skate here is early morning or late evening when foot traffic is minimal.
Pro Tips:
- Be cautious of cars and pedestrians.
- Keep sessions short to avoid complaints from nearby businesses.
9. Winslow Sports Complex
While primarily a recreational area for sports, Winslow Sports Complex has smooth parking lots and gentle inclines that are perfect for cruising and slalom-style skateboarding. The area is quiet during weekdays, making it an underrated spot for skaters seeking solitude.
Pro Tips:
- Use the empty parking lots during off-peak hours.
- The grassy areas provide a nice spot for breaks.
10. Clear Creek Trail
Clear Creek Trail is a scenic pathway stretching through Bloomington’s natural landscape. With smooth asphalt and long stretches of uninterrupted trail, it’s an ideal location for skaters who enjoy cruising and carving. The trail also connects to several parks, providing additional opportunities for skating.
Pro Tips:
- Bring water and snacks for longer sessions.
- Watch out for joggers and cyclists on busier days.
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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