The skating scene really exploded in the last few years, and the number of Black-owned skate spaces are no exception.
We literally saw Black men, women, boys, and girls giving us all the Black joy vibes we needed as they freely rolled through the streets of their cities or around local rinks. It definitely was and is the wave.
If you’re looking for a place to skate while supporting Black-owned businesses, this is your list of Black-owned skating rinks and spaces across the United States.
1. RollerCade
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Detroit’s oldest, Black-owned skating rink is loved by many in the community.
RollerCade is a legendary community hub and for Detroiters and all visiting skaters, it carries an unmatched feeling of history and legacy. Last year, the historic skate rink opened an outdoor skating experience and yes, it is truly picturesque.
2. Zone One Entertainment Complex
“Finally A Place For Us” is the slogan for Zone One Entertainment Complex, a family-friendly skating rink and entertainment center in Buffalo.
Not only offering safe and fun opportunities to skate, this center is also enjoyed for its other activities such as laser tag, bumper cars, games and food and snacks for all the family to enjoy.
3. Skate Zone
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Catering to families and skaters of all levels, this Georgia based skate center is the place to be in the Morrow area.
Deborah and Richard Phillips, the owners of this Black-owned skate rink, have seen continued support from the community not only for the vibes of the skate rink but also for the widely used events space for parties.
The Phillips have 3 sons and have encouraged them to see the value of entrepreneurship in the hopes of keeping the business in the family.
4. Dream Detroit Skating Academy (DDSA)
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Dream Detroit Skating Academy (DDSA) is an exciting new addition to the list, having just opened as Detroit’s first Black woman-owned skating center last Saturday.
Co-founders Blocker-Loyd and Tamakloe were two of only a few competitive African American skaters in the metropolitan Detroit area.
With a mission to provide affordable skating lessons to low-income youth in Detroit for ages four years and up, the academy, firmly a part of Detroit’s Black history, will help to expose young skaters to the vast world of figure skating.
5. The People's Rink
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Looking to share your love of skating with a lively skating community in the Houston area? Opening its door in 2016, the Black-owned skate rink has only grown in popularity.
With ‘30,000 square feet of temperature controlled fun,’ you are sure to enjoy unforgettable experiences at The People’s Rink, Texas’ favorite Black-owned skate spot.
6. Rollin' CLT
Rollin’ CLT is Charlotte’s only Black-owned skate rink, and it is owned by three Black women.
The outdoor skate rink and lounge is not just about skating, it’s about connecting the community through recreation, movement and some old-school outdoorsy fun.
Check out the Instagram to see how this freshly founded colorful skate rink is flourishing.