Lace Up Your Skates and Let’s Roll
Looking for a new sporty summer activity that’s actually a blast from the past? Roller skating is a killer form of exercise that’s also incredibly fun. Whether you’re cruising down a beachside boardwalk or hitting up a retro roller rink, skating is a great way to move your body and master a new technique. Though it might be intimidating at first, once you get the hang of it, you won’t be able to get enough. Thankfully, Los Angeles has plenty of places to practice! Lace-up your skates and get ready to glide away at these seven epic roller skating spots in LA!
Moonlight Rollerway
Since the 1950s, Moonlight Rollerway has been providing family fun to Glendale locals and visitors alike. The retro rink takes you back in time and is a super affordable skate spot that the entire family will love. Generally, admission costs $16 per person and skate rentals are $7; if you visit for the morning skate on Saturdays, however, admission is only $13. If you’re new to roller skating, sign up for the beginner class and learn the ropes before venturing out on your own. Moonlight Rollerway also hosts a variety of themed events like Disco Night and Country Western Skate Night!
Pigeon’s Roller Rink at 2nd & PCH
Located in Long Beach, Pigeon’s Roller Rink at 2nd and PCH is the ultimate place to practice roller skating. Lessons start at 9 a.m. each day, and while the rink does accept walk-ins, it’s recommended to book your session in advance. Skating during early hours from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. costs $10, while afternoon and evening skate sessions will set you back a cool $15. If you’re looking for a bargain, visit during Two for One Tuesdays and bring a friend for free.
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Enjoy some fresh air and a sea breeze while you glide down the Venice Beach Boardwalk. This is perhaps the most iconic skate spot in all of LA, and you’re sure to see some fellow roller skaters and bladers along the way. Since the boardwalk gets pretty packed with bikers, joggers and general beach-goers, skating here might be a bit intimidating. But as long as you know the basics and have mastered balance, you should be able to hold your own. Don’t forget to snap a cute candid for the ‘Gram.
Marvin Braude Bike Trail
The Marvin Braude Bike Trail is 22 miles long and runs from Marina del Rey all the way to Pacific Palisades. Watch the waves roll in and admire the towering beach houses as you glide down the smooth pavement. Just like the Venice Beach Boardwalk, the Marvin Braude Bike Trail can get pretty congested, so if you’re a beginner, definitely practice a bit beforehand if you plan on going far. This path takes you past some of LA’s most popular beaches, making it the perfect route for a sunset skating sesh.
Elysian Park Trail
The Elysian Park Trail is located near a residential neighborhood and offers a great path for beginners looking to improve their roller skating skills. The west loop is only 2.3 miles, but since most of the trail isn’t paved, you’ll have to get used to some bumps along the way. You’re able to enjoy stunning city views from certain points on the trail while being surrounded by lush greenery. Most of the trail is pretty flat, making it a bit easier to skate despite not being paved.
Rose Bowl Loop
Partially paved, the Rose Bowl Loop is a popular trail that is perfect for running, biking or skating all year round. Since it’s a pretty busy trail, you might run into some crowds, but if you visit early in the morning, you could get lucky with a pretty peaceful scene. The Rose Bowl Loop is ideal for solo skaters looking to immerse themselves in nature. The trail literally loops around the Rose Bowl Stadium, and it’s worth a visit even for those who don’t live in Pasadena.
Culver City Park
With more than 40 acres of space to explore, Culver City Park should be at the top of your roller blading bucket list. In addition to playgrounds, a grilling area and a dog park, Culver City Park also has plenty of pavement along with a full skateboarding area. If you’re a pro, Culver City Park is the perfect place to try your latest trick, but there’s also plenty of room for starters to get the hang of things and have their own space. It’s the best of both worlds!
Allie Lebos graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2017 with a BA in Communication. While in school she was a staff writer at The Daily Nexus for nearly two years. Since graduating she has written for The Palisades Magazine, as well as Hidden Hills Magazine. Currently living in Santa Monica, Allie loves to indulge in good food, hot yoga, and daily walks along the beach; writing articles on travel, special events, as well as features on local businesses and individuals.
