LAURIDSEN SKATEPARK
FAQ’S
- Where is the Lauridsen Skatepark located?
- The Lauridsen Skatepark is located in the heart of downtown Des Moines on five acres at the northern edge of the Principal Riverwalk and just east of Wells Fargo Arena and the Iowa Events Center.
- Address: 901 2nd Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50309
- The Lauridsen Skatepark is located in the heart of downtown Des Moines on five acres at the northern edge of the Principal Riverwalk and just east of Wells Fargo Arena and the Iowa Events Center.
- Who owns and operates the skatepark?
- Polk County owns the skatepark and it is operated by Polk County Conservation.
- What are the skatepark hours?
- Monday – Sunday | 6 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
- The Skatepark is open year-round as weather conditions allow.
- Are there lights at the skatepark?
- Yes, lights will come on during times when ample natural light isn’t available.
- Is there a fee to skate?
- The skatepark is FREE and open to the public. However, during special events, there may be a an entrance fee charge. Some clinics/programming may also require participation fees.
- Can I have an event at the skatepark?
- For events that will require additional planning (i.e. company activities, events, etc.) a Special Events Application is required prior to 45 days of the scheduled event. Download a Special Events Application here or pick up a physical copy at the Jester Park Nature Center.
- Is there parking for the skatepark?
- There is no dedicated parking lot for the skatepark. On-street parking is available along West River Drive – Please do NOT park on the EAST Side of West River Drive (the side closest to the water). This area needs to stay clear for emergency vehicle access. The DSM Police Department will issue parking citations. Parking can also be found around city parking ramps and other site locations for when we are hosting special events.
- Are BMX bikes allowed in the skatepark?
- Yes, they are allowed as long as they use plastic pegs. Metal Pegs on BMX Bikes are prohibited, as they will damage the skatepark surface. View Skatepark Rules here.
- Are quad (roller) skates allowed?
- Yes, quad skates are allowed in the skatepark.
- I’m a beginner skater, can I still skate?
- While the Lauridsen Skatepark is the largest in the U.S., it was designed to be challenging for all levels of skaters – from beginners, advanced, and even the pros. Interested in learning how to skate? Visit Skate DSM to see what programs and events they are offering.
- What features make up the skatepark?
- The Lauridsen Park course design is consistent with professional-level park course venues, such as those on the Vans Park Series world tour, and is capable of hosting amateur through world-class professional events. For a full list of features, go to the skatepark’s website at dsmskatepark.com.
- Can I skate the WOW sculpture?
- Yes, the WOW sculpture is skateable.
- Can I donate to the skatepark? If so, what does my donation help fund?
- YES! Your donation will directly support skatepark operations and allow this facility to remain free and open to the public. Donate online here.
- Do you offer programming and/or lessons?
- Programming at the Lauridsen Skatepark is conducted through a local non-profit by the name of Skate DSM. You can find Skate DSM’s programs and calendar of events on the skatepark’s website or at skatedsm.org.
- Can I bring my pet to the skatepark?
- Pets are not allowed within the skatepark for safety reasons. Service animals are welcome.
- Are there restrooms at the skatepark?
- Yes, modern restrooms are available to park users.
- Are there concessions available at the skatepark?
- There is a vending enclosure with beverage machines located near the restrooms.
- Can I rent skateboards, BMX bikes, scooters, and helmets at the skatepark?
- No, all equipment must be brought in by the park user.
- Where can I buy Skatepark Merchandise?
- Lauridsen Skatepark merchandise can be purchased at Subsect Skateshop located at 309 E. Walnut in Des Moines. They are open daily Monday – Friday at 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. and 12 – 4 p.m. on Sundays. Merchandise can also be purchased online through the Skatepark’s website.
- How do I keep up-to-date on Skatepark news?
- The Skatepark’s website (dsmskatepark.com) will be updated regularly with information and programming for the public. Announcements will also be posted on the skatepark’s Facebook and Twitter feeds.
- What are the skatepark rules and regulations?
- Modification to any part of the skatepark or unauthorized ramps, rails, or other obstacles
- Use of Metal Pegs on BMX Bikes (Plastic Pegs ONLY)
- Motorized Vehicles
- Littering &/or Dumping of Debris
- Use of Alcohol
- Use of Glass Containers
- Smoking &/or Vaping within 25 Feet of the Skate Elements
- No Pets in Skating Area
- It is highly recommended that skaters wear: helmets, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards and gloves.
In case of emergency, contact: 911
- Fight in progress
- Severe injury
- Fire
- Serious accident
- Health related emergencies
Examples of Non-Emergencies | Contact the Non-Emergency Line: 515-283-4811
- Motorized vehicles in the area
- Vandalism in progress
Examples of illegal activities | Contact Polk County Conservation: 515-323-5300
- Smoking, drinking, drug use
- Vandalism not in progress
- Pets in skating area
- Glass containers
- Obnoxiously loud or profane music garnering complaints
Park Maintenance
- Who cleans the skatepark?
- Operation Downtown
- December – March: Occasional walk-throughs of the park
- April – November: Staff cleans the park 3x per day
Report any violations, damage, or submit a service request to:
Polk County Conservation | dsmskatepark@polkcountyiowa.gov | 515-323-5300