Skating activities in San Francisco
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A
Kennedy Drive Freestyle Skaters
Kids' eyes light up, their mommies' hearts a-pounding as they watch from the sidelines. These fearless skaters' moves seem to defy gravity. You too can admire the skill of the freestyle roller skating here and enjoy food and music while you're at it; or you can head over to Kennedy Drive and Arguello to see the slalom skaters. If you're crazy enough to attempt the same, head over to Golden Gate Park Bike & Skate and rent a pair. Sunday is your best bet, since Kennedy Drive from 19th Ave to Kezar Drive is closed off and there's a nice wide berth of road to maneuver and wipe out on. Wear a helmet and knee and elbow pads.
reviewed
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B
Potrero del Sol/La Raza Skatepark
An isolated, scrubby park that had been abandoned to gangs became NorCal's hottest urban skatepark in 2008 with support from the city's Recreation and Park department. Day and night under strategically placed lights, newbies and pros blast ollies off the hip of these concrete bowls. There are downsides: the bathroom is often off-limits due to misuse or stench, and graffiti on the concrete can make for a slippery ride. Wait for a clean area of the bowl to bust big moves, and leave room for little skaters. For gear, hit up Mission Skateboards.
reviewed
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C
California Outdoor Rollerskating Association Midnight Rollers
This is rather like Critical Mass, but on skates and with no agenda but to have fun skating. These rollers rendezvous at the Ferry Building and skate through the night up the Embarcadero to the Marina and back. They usually have a couple dozen skaters, but they've had as many as 150 rolling blissfully up and down the shore. They may stop along the way for drinks or snacks, so carry some money as well as your helmet and some layers of clothing. Check out the CORA website for information on other skater events in the city.
reviewed
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D
Kennedy Drive Freestyle Roller Dance
Roller boogie is alive and kicking – at least on Sundays in Golden Gate Park. Fearless skaters leap, twirl and pirouette to blaring house music and classic disco, much to the delight of crowds gathered on the adjacent grassy hill. Kids’ eyes positively light up. If you’re brave enough to join the dance, rent skates at nearby Golden Gate Park Bike & Skate.
reviewed