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River Avenue Skate Park

4.4
·208 reviews·, United States

A gritty Bronx skate park with iconic subway views, offering a dynamic urban playground for skaters.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more space to skate

CrowdMedium
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Scenic Path through Park

River Avenue Skate Park

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more space to skate

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A gritty Bronx skate park with iconic subway views, offering a dynamic urban playground for skaters.

4.4
(208 reviews)

"It's a pretty good skatepark for decent skateboarders but if you’re someone who has social anxiety..."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Respect the Scene

Be mindful of the park's atmosphere; some visitors note adult activities.

🛹 Great for Beginners

Many find it a welcoming spot to learn and practice.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Banks and Quarter Pipes

Banks and Quarter Pipes

Main skate area

Jam around the versatile banks and quarter pipes, perfect for all skill levels.

Reddit
Train Spotting Views

Train Spotting Views

Overlooking the park

Skate with the iconic NYC subway trains rumbling by overhead.

Reddit
Urban Playground

Urban Playground

Entire park

Experience a former parking lot transformed into a dynamic skate plaza.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Bronx Vibe

River Avenue Skate Park is a unique spot in the Bronx, offering a gritty urban experience. Expect a lively atmosphere with skaters of all levels. It's a former parking lot turned skate haven, so don't expect manicured lawns, but do expect authentic NYC energy. Instagram

Know Before You Go: Etiquette & Atmosphere

While many find the park welcoming for beginners,Reddit some reviews mention an atmosphere that might be intimidating for those with social anxiety or young children, citing adult activities like smoking. Be aware of the local scene and skate respectfully. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to skate
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Friendly vibe, good for beginners
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Jim the Gentrifier visits The Bronx skate scene 😭🗽 #Comedy #jimthegentrifier #funny #Skateboarding #parody #nyc #bronx #fyp
@timhannrivera
10.7K likes • 94.1K views

🎯 Respect the Scene

Be mindful of the park's atmosphere; some visitors note adult activities. InstagramReddit

🛹 Great for Beginners

Many find it a welcoming spot to learn and practice. Reddit

This place was iconic and a great hang out spot #thebronx #nychistory #skatekey #newyorkers
@dannyserene
7.9K likes • 92.9K views
October 18th @conbudyankeestadium & @clearlyfaded Pre Halloween Party at #riveraveskatepark #CobwebsandConcrete Pre Halloween Party free Event #DayParty
nightime1
31 likes • 752 views

📸 Iconic NYC Backdrop

Enjoy skating with the backdrop of passing subway trains. Instagram

🚗 Bronx Local Gem

A recommended spot for skaters looking for authentic NYC experiences. Reddit

𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐔𝐩: 𝐑𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐞 𝐒𝐤𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 🛹
yejidelovesrealestate_
15 likes • 389 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Respect the Scene

Be mindful of the park's atmosphere; some visitors note adult activities. InstagramReddit

🛹 Great for Beginners

Many find it a welcoming spot to learn and practice. Reddit

📸 Iconic NYC Backdrop

Enjoy skating with the backdrop of passing subway trains. Instagram

🚗 Bronx Local Gem

A recommended spot for skaters looking for authentic NYC experiences. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(208 reviews)

Reviews Summary

River Avenue Skate Park is praised for its unique urban setting and welcoming atmosphere for skaters of all levels, especially beginners. The iconic backdrop of passing subway trains adds to its charm. However, some visitors find the park's atmosphere can be intimidating due to the presence of adult skaters and activities.

"A very strange layout and mix of features. Kind of fun to jam around the banks and quarter pipes."

Vasiliy Volkov

"It’s a pretty good skatepark for decent skateboarders but if you’re someone who has social anxiety or like nervous around tons of people basically the same thing ig then probably not for you and kind of concerning and wouldn’t take kids there since there’s grown men smoking at the benches and stuff it’s population is decent it depends but overall I wouldn’t really recommend"

Hehe Hehe

"Great 4 skaters"

Nazareth Michelle Wilkinson

What People Like

Great for beginners
Iconic subway views
Authentic urban vibe

What People Dislike

Intimidating atmosphere
Adult activities present

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is easily accessible via public transportation. The B and D subway lines stop at 167th Street, which is a short walk away. The 4 train also runs nearby, offering convenient access from various parts of the city. Instagram

While it was formerly a parking lot, dedicated parking is limited. Public transit is the most recommended way to reach the park. Instagram

The B and D trains to 167th Street are very close. The 4 train is also a viable option, offering good connectivity. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, River Avenue Skate Park is a public space and is free to enter and use for skateboarding. Instagram

As a public park, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific official hours are not always posted, and it's best to visit during reasonable times. Instagram

No, there's no need to book in advance. It's a first-come, first-served public skate park. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The park features a mix of banks, quarter pipes, and other plaza-style elements, making it a versatile spot for various skateboarding styles. Reddit

Many skaters find it to be a great place for beginners due to its welcoming atmosphere and accessible features. Reddit

The atmosphere is generally lively and energetic, with a mix of skaters. Some reviews mention it can be intimidating for those with social anxiety due to adult presence. Reddit

While it's a public park, some reviews suggest caution for young children due to the presence of adult skaters and activities. Reddit

Its unique charm comes from its urban setting, with views of the elevated subway lines providing an iconic NYC backdrop. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The elevated subway lines offer a dynamic and iconic NYC backdrop for photos. The various ramps and banks also provide interesting angles for action shots. Instagram

Yes, filming and photography are generally permitted, especially for personal use. Be respectful of other skaters and their space. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

River Avenue Skate Park offers a unique urban experience, but parents should be aware of the environment. While some reviews highlight it as a great place for beginners and kids to skate,Reddit others mention an atmosphere that might be less suitable for younger children due to the presence of adult skaters and activities like smoking. Reddit

If you do bring kids, consider visiting during weekday afternoons when crowds might be thinner and the vibe potentially more relaxed. It's always a good idea to assess the situation upon arrival and ensure your children feel comfortable and safe. The novelty of skating with subway trains overhead can be a big hit! Instagram

🛹 Budget Travelers

River Avenue Skate Park is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. As a free, public park, it offers hours of entertainment without any admission fees. Instagram

Getting there via the NYC subway is also very affordable, making it an accessible destination for anyone looking to experience authentic Bronx culture and skateboarding without breaking the bank. Pack your own snacks and water to keep costs down even further. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Urban Skateboarding Experience

River Avenue Skate Park is more than just a collection of ramps; it's an integral part of the Bronx's urban landscape. Originally a parking lot, its transformation into a skate plaza reflects the city's ability to repurpose spaces for community use. The park's design, featuring banks and quarter pipes, offers a solid foundation for skaters of all levels to practice and progress. InstagramReddit

What truly sets this park apart is its iconic setting. Skaters can perform tricks with the rumble of the B, D, and 4 subway trains overhead, creating a quintessential New York City skateboarding experience. This unique backdrop has been captured in numerous social media posts, highlighting the park's distinctive character. TikTokInstagram

While the park is celebrated for its accessibility and the camaraderie among skaters, it's worth noting that the environment can be intense for some. Reviews mention a mix of users, and it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially if you're new to the scene or visiting with children. Reddit

Community and Culture

River Avenue Skate Park serves as a hub for the local skateboarding community in the Bronx. It's a place where skaters gather, share tips, and push each other's skills. The park's reputation as a 'dope' spot is reinforced by its authentic urban vibe and the friendly nature of many of its regulars. Reddit

Social media content often showcases the park's role in local events and gatherings, underscoring its importance beyond just a place to skate. These reels and videos capture the spirit of the Bronx skateboarding scene, from casual sessions to organized jams. TikTokInstagram

However, like many urban skate spots, it's a space that reflects the realities of city life. While many appreciate the park's raw energy, potential visitors should be prepared for a diverse crowd and a less curated experience than some other skate parks might offer. Reddit

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