Bros around the globe strike again. The focus is now on city plazas, the “ultimate hub for meeting and engaging with local skaters” during their travels. From Barcelona to New York, here is an alternative map of stoke with lots of tips. “Let’s just hope nobody calls security or the cops”.

A skateboarding trip to a new country delivers the opportunity to skate new spots and parks, explore unique cultures, indulge in authentic experiences, and connect with other skaters around the world. And when you can't find a skatepark, a city plaza is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local skate scene when you've just arrived in a foreign land.

A typical day at MACBA, THE skatespot in Barcelona. Photo By - Guille Alvarez

Bursting with energy, creativity, and a shared love for skateboarding, city plazas have become the ultimate hub for meeting and engaging with local skaters, artists, musicians, and other rad humans. Join me on a journey as we delve into why city plazas are the best places to connect with passionate like-minded individuals during your travels.

A Skateboarding Paradise

City plazas often offer an ideal environment for skateboarders, combining a variety of skate-friendly features that attract local riders. From perfectly smooth ground surfaces to an array of ledges, stairs, rails, and even skate parks nearby, plazas provide an exciting playground for skateboarders of any level. Plus, there’s always a convenience store just around the corner to grab a cold one, post-session. There’s no sound sweeter to a skateboarder than stomping a trick bolt on a marble slab, or the sound of a slappy on a freshly waxed curb. With shred-friendly features in place, city plazas have become a magnet for skateboarders. They’re a prime spot to witness the local talent, join in the session, or play a game of skate. Let’s just hope nobody calls security or the cops.

Love Park was a hive for skateboarding in the 90s and early 2000s, not just for Philadelphia, but for the world. Photo By - Smallbones

Community & Camaraderie

City plazas serve as a melting pot of diverse individuals from all walks of life, united by their shared passion for skateboarding. Skaters gather here not only to practice their craft but also to connect, exchange tips, and inspire one another. By immersing yourself in this environment, you'll be exposed to a vibrant community of skateboarders who are often more than willing to share their stories, experiences, and local insights. Need to know where to grab a tasty bite or a cool bar to go to? No worries, they got you! No matter where you find yourself in the world, a strong sense of camaraderie within the skateboarding community fosters a welcoming atmosphere. You may even leave with new friendships and unforgettable memories.

Taking in the incredible condition of Stalin Plaza in Prague. Photo by - Bros Around The Globe

Cultural Fusion

Skateboarding transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, making it a universal language that brings people together. When you visit a city plaza and engage with the locals and skaters, you'll experience a unique blend of cultures and backgrounds. Skating can provide a deeper understanding of the local community's history, traditions, and even contemporary art. It's not uncommon to witness skateboarders incorporating cultural heritage elements into their tricks, fashion, or style, creating a beautiful fusion of skateboarding and local identity. This cultural exchange adds an extra layer of richness to your travel experience.

The ledges of Jarmers Plans in Copenhagen, DK. Photo By - Ramberlersen

Unveiling Hidden Gems

While popular tourist attractions often steal the spotlight, city plazas provide a gateway to uncovering hidden gems within a destination. Skateboarders are often intimately familiar with their local surroundings, including lesser-known spots that showcase the city's true essence. By striking up conversations with local skateboarders in a plaza, you can tap into their extensive knowledge of the area, gaining access to secret skate spots, vibrant street art, independent shops, and even local cuisine. Embracing the insights of these insiders will allow you to go beyond the tourist traps and delve into the authentic soul of the city.

The now defunct Brooklyn Banks, will soon be revived by the City of New York. Photo by - Rasmus Zwickson

Inspiring Creativity and Growth

The Brooklyn Banks, Love Park, LA Courthouse, MACBA, Plaza De Colón, Southbank, Stalin Square, the list goes on. City plazas have long been catalysts for creativity, serving as a canvas for self-expression and pushing the boundaries of progression. Being surrounded by local skateboarders in such an environment will undoubtedly ignite your own style and creative spirit. Whether you're a seasoned skateboarder or a curious traveller, witnessing the tricks, styles, and innovations of local skaters can inspire new perspectives and encourage personal growth. The energy and dedication displayed by these individuals will leave an indelible mark on your own skateboarding journey, whether as a participant or an observer.

The plaza outside the Kulturforum museum in Berlin, built just like a skatepark. Photo By - Andreas Praefcke

When exploring a new country, remember to include a city plaza on your itinerary to connect with local skateboarders. And when you can’t find a skatepark, a city plaza is most certainly your best bet to tap into the local skate scene. From the dynamic skateboarding environment to the vibrant community, cultural fusion, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, these plazas offer a unique and enriching experience. Embrace the stoke, immerse yourself in the skateboarding world, and witness firsthand how the city plaza becomes the ultimate meeting point for skateboarders while traveling.

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