Find the Best Roller Skating Rinks in America
Since the pandemic's onset, roller skating has begun making a comeback across America. In fact, this favorite pastime has become so popular recently that news outlets across the globe were reporting roller skate shortages late in 2021.
Although roller skating may conjure up images of bell-bottomed teenagers doing laps at the local roller disco, roller skating was actually invented as far back as 1743 and first gained popularity in the late 1800s. Over time, roller skating has come in and out of style, and today, it's regaining popularity.
If you're ready to strap on a pair of skates and search for the best roller skating rink in the world, start by checking out this list of the best roller skating rinks in America.
Lakeside Rink in New York City
Lakeside Rink features two separate rinks making it one of the coolest roller skating rinks in the US—a covered rink and an open-air rink. In the winter, the venue hosts ice skating and snowboarding. It also hosts fun events, such as holiday-themed and family skating nights.
If you live in New York City or you're planning to stay awhile, grab a season pass to take part in roller skating events all summer long, schedule lessons, or plan your own special events, such as birthdays and other private parties at the rink.
Oaks Park Skating Rink in Portland, Oregon
Oaks Park is the oldest skating rink in the United States and one of the largest in the country. It's also been one of the top roller skating rinks in America for decades. The venue is home to a competitive skating club and offers public skating Tuesday through Sunday.
Depending on when you go, you may be treated to live organ music, played by an organist who overlooks the rink. Other times, you can skate to fun jams, such as the Hokey Pokey, or enjoy upbeat tunes spun by live DJs.
If you live in the Portland area, you can sign up for skating lessons, schedule birthday parties, and host community events at Oaks Park.
Chez-Vous Roller Skating Rink in Boston, Massachusetts
Chez-Vous is a great place to go if you're looking for an authentic roller-disco experience. Pack up the family, and head to Boston for a roller-skating adventure that's just as much fun for you as it is for the kids. This venue plays music that appeals to skaters of all ages, with DJs that spin everything from oldies to hip-hop.
On Wednesdays, Chez-Vous hosts an old-school night for those looking for a nostalgic experience, while Sundays are family days and typically feature music that caters to a younger audience.
The Rink in Chicago, Illinois
If it's a unique roller skating experience you're after, grab a Zipcar and head to The Rink in Chicago. The city is known for JB, a unique roller skating style named after James Brown that features a ton of footwork. The Rink is known to be one of the coolest roller skating rinks in the United States.
When you hit The Rink in Chicago, a premier venue that's been operating for more than 45 years, expect to be surrounded by roller skaters dancing to soul, funk, and hip-hop music. Don't worry if you can't keep up, though. The staff at The Rink are more than happy to give visitors skating tips, and most often, the pro skaters keep to the middle, giving you plenty of space to hone your skills along the outer edges of the rink.
