Ten important skateboard spots in Saint Charles, Missouri
1. St. Charles Skatepark
Located within the Blanchette Park, the St. Charles Skatepark is the crown jewel for local skateboarders. This public skatepark features an extensive variety of obstacles, including ramps, bowls, rails, and ledges. The park’s open layout allows for both beginner and experienced skateboarders to have fun, and the quality concrete surface makes it a pleasure to ride. Plus, the park's community-oriented atmosphere and convenient location make it a regular spot for locals and a go-to for new riders in town.
2. Frontier Park
While not specifically a skatepark, Frontier Park offers plenty of smooth pathways and open spaces that are perfect for longboarding or a relaxed skate session. Located near the scenic Missouri River, the park provides an impressive view, especially around sunset. Some pathways wind through the park, allowing skaters to cruise and practice freestyle tricks. The park’s popularity means there’s often a crowd, so be mindful of pedestrians when visiting this laid-back spot.
3. Streets of St. Charles (SOSC)
The Streets of St. Charles shopping district has become a well-known street skating location for those who like urban obstacles. This area offers skaters a chance to practice on curbs, ledges, and other street features typically found in a downtown area. Skateboarding here can be a little tricky as it's a commercial district, so skaters should be respectful of the space and aware of business hours. Early mornings or later evenings are generally the best times to skate here without heavy foot traffic.
4. Lindenwood University Campus
The campus of Lindenwood University is a skateboard-friendly area with plenty of concrete, stair sets, and rails for intermediate and advanced skaters. College campuses are often prime spots for skaters due to their design, which incorporates ledges, benches, and smooth pathways. The relaxed campus environment offers a lot of creative potential for skating, but skaters should keep an eye out for campus security and stick to less crowded areas to avoid disruptions.
5. Foundry Art Centre
The Foundry Art Centre is another urban gem for skateboarders who appreciate street skating. Located close to the historic district, this spot features smooth surfaces and artistic surroundings that create a unique ambiance for skating. While it isn’t specifically designed for skateboarding, the area has curbs and ledges that skaters can use to practice various tricks. Respect for the art center’s property is essential, and skating here during off-hours is recommended to avoid crowds and maintain the area’s integrity.
6. Jaycee Park
Jaycee Park is a quieter, more secluded park that has become a hidden treasure for skateboarders in St. Charles. Known for its low-key vibe and relaxed atmosphere, Jaycee Park has plenty of sidewalks and pathways that are ideal for cruising and practicing flat-ground tricks. The park’s basketball courts also double as an area for skaters to practice in a less crowded setting. This spot is ideal for skaters looking for a calm, peaceful environment without too many spectators.
7. Blanchette Landing
Blanchette Landing is another great spot for skaters who enjoy both a river view and a bit of freestyle skating. While not specifically a skate spot, it features smooth concrete areas and open spaces that skaters can enjoy, especially if they are into flat-ground tricks or longboarding. This spot, located by the Missouri River, offers a scenic ambiance that makes for a relaxing skate experience. It's especially popular among locals looking to enjoy a peaceful session.
8. Wapelhorst Park
Though better known for its recreational activities like fishing and hiking, Wapelhorst Park has become a low-key spot for skaters who prefer a quiet, nature-surrounded environment. The park offers paved trails and walkways, which are perfect for beginners and longboarders. Since the park doesn’t usually have heavy skate traffic, it’s a good option for those who want a more relaxed experience away from crowds. Skaters should be aware of pedestrians on the trails, as the park is popular with walkers and joggers.
9. Historic Main Street
Historic Main Street is a famous area in St. Charles and, surprisingly, a well-loved spot among street skaters. The cobblestone sidewalks and historic architecture give this place a unique aesthetic, though the cobblestones themselves can be challenging for skating. Some side streets and alleys feature smoother surfaces, curbs, and small ledges for practicing tricks. Historic Main Street is not ideal for high-speed skating but is perfect for practicing creative tricks and soaking in a bit of the city’s culture.
10. Family Arena
The Family Arena is a popular venue for concerts and sports events but, when the space is empty, the surrounding parking lot becomes a makeshift skate spot. The wide-open area provides plenty of space for practicing without any specific obstacles, making it ideal for beginners or skaters who enjoy flat-ground tricks. Since it’s a public venue, make sure to avoid event days and check for any “no skating” signs before starting your session.
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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