About us
NYC Rollerbladers held our first event on Oct. 1, 2023 at Randall's Island. Those in attendance were Matt, Trudi, Phylicia, Gilbert, Daniela, Bimbola, Jyllian, Kim, Nayarett, and Carlos. Our group now has over 1000 members on Meetup and over 700 on Whatsapp. We owe that success to the already-existing skate groups in NYC (Empire Skate, All Star Blading, etc.) who have banded together with us to create a collective where everyone's skating events are publicized, regardless of brand.
Group Norms:
1. Safety First: Obey the rules of the road, watch out for cars and your fellow skaters. Try to warn others of cars, obstructions or other potential hazards. Stay hydrated.
2. One Mic: when the leader of the skate is making an announcement, please refrain from side conversations.
3. Be mindful: Remember, we’re all here to skate and have a good time. Be mindful of the feelings of others and speak up if you have a concern.
FAQs
Where can I buy rollerblades?
Through one of the local vendors listed here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yqra5n60ogq8B4Bn0JOm9YQcYG3y_gtdf1BI7vqdHcw/edit?usp=sharing
Online at http://inlinewarehouse.com
Avoid buying through Amazon or going to a general sporting goods store as the options will not be as good.
What blades should I get?
Recommended brands: Rollerblade, FR
Type: Hard boot
You can get more specific tips from the community if you join our Whatsapp group.
A Note on Three vs. Four Wheel Skates
https://www.inlinewarehouse.com/fitlc/ThreeWheel-vs_FourWheel-Skates.html
Should I wear a helmet/pads?
Yes.
Do you lend out rollerblades?
No.
Do you offer lessons?
We host beginner events that sometimes include drills. If you want more formal and regular lessons, there are instructors listed here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yqra5n60ogq8B4Bn0JOm9YQcYG3y_gtdf1BI7vqdHcw/edit?usp=sharing
Are quad skaters welcome on your rides?
Yes.
Are long/skateboarders and bikers welcome?
Yes, but long/skateboarders should stay at the back of the pack to avoid collisions with rollerbladers. Sometimes, we brake suddenly and long/skateboarders are not able to react quickly, which can result in collisions/falls for rollerbladers behind them. Bikers are also generally advised to stay at the back for similar reasons.
Do you know anywhere that rents out rollerblades/rollerskates?
Only the roller rink.
Upcoming events
6
Bronx River Parkway & Kensico Dam
Westchester County Center, 198 Central Avenue, White Plains, NY, USSkaters and Bikers*
Sunday 5/31/2026 will be a perfect day (upper 60’s to 70) to Skate or bike* traffic-free on the Bronx River Parkway which is closed to all traffic from 10AM to 2PM. It is about 14 miles (down and back) of rolling hills and beautiful views. (Some of the road has been repaved)
We will follow parkway skate with an Optional 10-mile skate to the top of the Kensico Dam and an amazing downhill with new pavement thru Valhalla back to Kensico Dam and finally White Plains.
There is another surprise at the end by the White Plains Railroad.
After skating, a chance for some food and drink might happen in Valhalla or White Plains.
CAN ALSO SKATE SHORTER DISTANCES by just turning back anywhere along Parkway back to start point to meet group. There are also train stations along route.
*** GROUP-UP in White Plains at 11:00AM *** - across from the County Center, a short skate/walk from the White Plains Metro North station (2 minutes). We meet on the southbound side of the parkway. If you take the train, get skates on by the taxi area and the big clock, and I will swing by to escort you to the Bronx River Parkway at 11:00am.
*** LEAVE PROMPTLY at 11:15AM Sharp
*** - Parkway reopens to traffic at 2pm
Send me a message if you might be late. If you miss us, skate south and catch up with us at the bottom.BRP loop will end around 1:00pm - 1:15pm back at WP.
There is a train back to NYC at 2:02 and one every hour.
If anyone plans to park in the lot right where we meet up and is willing to offer their car to stash shoes and bags, please let me know. If you will need a car for this purpose, contact me to make arrangements.
THANKS and hope to see you SUNDAY!!!!Metro North Train info:
From Grand Central: 10:14 AM (Express Train – 37 mins)
From Harlem - 125th Street: 10:24AM
To White Plains: 10:51 AM (not White Plains North)
Round-trip fare: ~$19.50 (purchase before boarding train) - ~$9.75 One WayThere is a train back to NYC at 2:02, 3:02, 4:02, 4:57 and one every hour.
See mta.info for additional return train schedule.HELMETS AND WRIST GUARDS ARE REQUIRED. BRING WATER, SUN PROTECTION, AND LUNCH MONEY.
YOU ARE SKATING/BIKING AT YOUR OWN RISK, responsible for your safety, and agree not to sue or hold the Empire Skate Club or any volunteers responsible.*Note: Bikers must have $5 MTA lifetime permit available at Grand Central Station. May possibly be paid for on-board. Good for Metro North and LI Railroads. Yet, to ensure compliance, cost, and to save time print and fill-out form from http://web.mta.info/mnr/html/mnrbikepermit.htm.
4 attendees
![Empire Skate Club Bonfire Skate [Intermediate/Advanced]](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/0/1/2/highres_529832786.jpeg)
Past events
151
Group links
Members
1,649
