Ten important skateboard spots in Charleston, Illinois
1. Morton Park Skatepark
Why it’s a top spot:
Morton Park Skatepark is Charleston’s go-to location for skateboarders. Featuring ramps, rails, and ledges, this park is perfect for those who enjoy a well-rounded skate session. The smooth concrete surface and open layout allow for creativity and flow. Beginners can hone their skills here, while advanced skaters will find plenty of challenges.
Features:
- Quarter pipes
- Bank ramps
- Grind rails
- Pyramid setup
Tips:
Arrive early in the morning for fewer crowds, especially on weekends.
2. Eastern Illinois University (EIU) Campus
Why it’s a top spot:
EIU’s campus offers a variety of skating opportunities. From long, smooth pathways to manual pads and stair sets, it’s a skater’s dream. Be respectful of pedestrians and avoid high-traffic times, like class change hours.
Features:
- Stair sets ranging from 3 to 8 steps
- Manual pads and ledges
- Wide-open spaces for cruising
Tips:
Stick to lesser-used areas near the library or athletic buildings to avoid interruptions.
3. Town Square Plaza
Why it’s a top spot:
Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, Town Square Plaza features open concrete areas and benches ideal for street-style skating. The area’s unique architecture and features create fun opportunities for tricks.
Features:
- Concrete benches for grinds
- Open flat spaces
- Low traffic after business hours
Tips:
Evening sessions are best, as the plaza is quieter once local businesses close.
4. Lake Charleston Recreation Area
Why it’s a top spot:
While primarily known for its natural beauty, the parking lots and paved paths near Lake Charleston provide a peaceful spot for cruising or flatground practice. The scenic surroundings add a refreshing vibe to your session.
Features:
- Smooth parking lots
- Long paths for cruising
- Relaxing atmosphere
Tips:
Avoid peak times during summer when the area is crowded with visitors.
5. Jefferson Elementary School
Why it’s a top spot:
Schools often double as hidden gems for skateboarders, and Jefferson Elementary is no exception. Its playgrounds and surrounding areas feature curbs, rails, and open spaces ideal for skating.
Features:
- Low curbs for grinding
- Open flatground
- Handrails for intermediate skaters
Tips:
Skate here during weekends or evenings to avoid school activities.
6. Charleston Square Parking Lots
Why it’s a top spot:
The parking lots around Charleston Square offer smooth asphalt and varying terrain, perfect for skaters looking to practice lines or work on flatground tricks.
Features:
- Wide-open spaces
- Ledges and curbs
- A casual, relaxed atmosphere
Tips:
Keep an eye out for cars and be mindful of local businesses operating nearby.
7. Sister City Park
Why it’s a top spot:
This park has become a low-key favorite among skaters for its flat paths and open spaces. It’s an excellent spot for beginners and anyone wanting a chill skating session.
Features:
- Flat concrete areas
- Minimal foot traffic
- Scenic setting
Tips:
Ideal for solo practice or teaching friends to skate.
8. Fox Ridge State Park
Why it’s a top spot:
Though it’s a state park, Fox Ridge has paved trails and parking lots perfect for downhill cruising or flatground sessions. The natural setting makes it a unique spot for mixing skating with outdoor exploration.
Features:
- Paved trails
- Large, smooth parking lots
- Quiet, serene environment
Tips:
Bring a camera—you’ll want to capture the beautiful scenery!
9. City Hall Steps and Ledges
Why it’s a top spot:
The City Hall building features iconic stair sets and ledges that attract adventurous skaters. With a mix of modern architecture and smooth surfaces, this spot caters to technical skaters.
Features:
- Multiple stair sets
- Ledges for grinding
- Urban atmosphere
Tips:
Skate here after business hours to avoid disruptions.
10. Mattoon-Charleston Trail
Why it’s a top spot:
Connecting Charleston to the nearby town of Mattoon, this trail is ideal for longboarding and cruising enthusiasts. The trail is well-maintained, offering a smooth ride through scenic areas.
Features:
- Long, uninterrupted paths
- Well-paved surfaces
- A peaceful, scenic ride
Tips:
Bring water and plan your ride to avoid the heat during summer.
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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