Lauridsen Skatepark

Lauridsen Skatepark in downtown Des Moines is an epic concrete playground sprawled across five acres—88,000 square feet—making it the largest public skatepark in the U.S. Designed by California Skateparks, it’s sculpted into the landscape along the Principal Riverwalk, just east of the Wells Fargo Arena.

Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, this place has got you covered. Tear up the Park and Street courses, cruise the nearly quarter-mile Skate Promenade, drop into the purpose-built Amoeba Pool, flow through the Flow Bowl, snake through the Snake Run, or get vertical on the giant “WOW” sculpture—skateable art that truly lives up to its name.

Open daily from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. year-round, it’s free to all (with occasional fees for special events), and even streams live online if you want to scope the action before you go.

From the massive scale to the ultra-accessible vibe, Lauridsen Skatepark is a must-ride destination for anyone chasing concrete dreams in the Midwest.