Ten important skateboard spots in Oshkosh, Wisconsin
1. Oshkosh Skatepark
Located in Menominee Park, this well-maintained skatepark is one of the most popular spots in Oshkosh. It features a variety of ramps, ledges, rails, and bowls that cater to both beginner and advanced skaters. Its open design and spacious layout make it ideal for mastering different tricks or enjoying a day out skating with friends.
- Highlights: Large bowl, several ramps, grind rails, and smooth surfaces.
- Why It’s Popular: This skatepark is well-built and includes a range of obstacles that accommodate multiple skill levels, making it a hub for local skaters.
2. The 400 Block
This plaza-style area has benches, curbs, and other skateable architecture. Though not officially designated for skateboarding, it’s a common meeting point for local skaters and offers a street-skating feel. Skating here can involve some risk, as it’s a public area not specifically for skateboarding, so be mindful of others and respectful of the space.
- Highlights: Benches, curbs, stairs, and flat areas.
- Why It’s Popular: The urban, open area offers a city skating experience in a casual environment.
3. Fox River Boardwalk
Running along the scenic Fox River, this spot features wide, smooth pathways, making it perfect for cruising. While the boardwalk is not designed for tricks or technical skating, the views of the river and relaxed atmosphere make it a great spot for a smooth ride and relaxed vibe.
- Highlights: Long paths, smooth surfaces, and scenic river views.
- Why It’s Popular: Ideal for cruising and scenic rides, this spot offers a change of pace from technical skate spots.
4. The Oshkosh Public Library Steps
The library steps are known for their sizable stair set, and nearby rails are also skateable. This spot is great for practicing stair and rail tricks, though it's best to avoid peak hours out of respect for library visitors. Skating here can be an adrenaline rush for those who enjoy stairs.
- Highlights: Stair set and rails.
- Why It’s Popular: The challenging stairs provide an opportunity to practice and showcase trick skills.
5. South Park Paths
South Park, located on the south side of Oshkosh, offers a network of paths winding through trees and greenery. The park’s natural scenery is ideal for a relaxing skate session. While it lacks technical obstacles, it’s a good spot to cruise and enjoy the outdoors.
- Highlights: Scenic pathways, wide open spaces, and smooth ground.
- Why It’s Popular: South Park offers a serene environment for those who enjoy low-key skating and just want to roll in nature.
6. Westhaven Circle
Located in a quiet neighborhood, Westhaven Circle has a circular layout with a small amount of traffic, making it an open space for skating flatground tricks. The area is perfect for beginners who need a calm, low-stakes environment to practice basic skills.
- Highlights: Low-traffic area with flatground.
- Why It’s Popular: This spot is beginner-friendly and offers a casual, quiet atmosphere.
7. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh (UWO) Campus
UWO’s campus features a range of stairs, ledges, and open plazas that are often skated by students and locals alike. Skating on a college campus requires caution, as there may be security or administrative rules regarding skateboarding, but it’s a popular spot for experienced skaters looking for diverse terrain.
- Highlights: Stairs, ledges, and open plazas.
- Why It’s Popular: The variety of obstacles provides options for both street skating and technical tricks.
8. West Algoma Street Rail
This spot offers a few unique rail options and is frequented by those looking to practice grinds. The location isn’t crowded, making it a good option for practicing technical skills. The nearby street also provides space for flatground tricks and ollie practice.
- Highlights: Grindable rails and flatground space.
- Why It’s Popular: Great for technical practice without much foot traffic.
9. Pollock Community Water Park Parking Lot
The parking lot of Pollock Community Water Park is a hidden gem for skaters, particularly during off-hours. With ample space and smooth pavement, this area is great for flatground tricks and practice sessions, especially in the summer when water park visitors are less frequent.
- Highlights: Wide-open area with smooth pavement.
- Why It’s Popular: Perfect for flatground practice, especially for beginners or those working on consistency.
10. Red Arrow Park
Red Arrow Park provides some open, paved areas ideal for skating, along with grassy spots for relaxation. Although it doesn’t have a dedicated skatepark, the open spaces and trails offer opportunities for a leisurely skate, and its location makes it accessible for quick sessions.
- Highlights: Open areas and paved paths.
- Why It’s Popular: Good for a laid-back skate session in a community-friendly space.
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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