Perfect Skateboarding Spots: Boston

Since I started skating again, I've been searching for new and exciting spots to skate that I will feature in upcoming "Recon Missions" posts.

I have also been returning to spots that I skated back-in-the-day to get reacquainted with them. This is one of those stories.

When I was in Boston a month ago, I decided to session at "The Heavens," a raised courtyard downtown with loads of pristine marble ledges and banks. I skated there once years ago, and I figured I could find my way back.

After driving around the Public Gardens—twice—through the West End, and finally all the way down Commonwealth Ave., I was about to give up.

But on my way back to the North End, where I work at a hockey rink, I spotted a group of skateboarders in a courtyard at Copley Square on Boylston Street.

The courtyard, it turns out, is actually an empty fountain with one long, waxed stone ledge that skateboarders session during the colder months (the fountain is active during warmer temperatures).

I was stoked to find this new spot, as one local boarder informed me that "The Heavens" was torn down not too long ago.

I may have failed in my original mission, since it was doomed from the start, but I was glad to find a new spot. I've even had a few sweet sessions there with my newfound friends.

Not surprisingly, I am always the only booter at any of these sessions. I have been well accepted, though, and I've even checked out another spot close by.

This spot is outside the Back Bay T Station. There's a long, smooth marble bench to grind and a small three-set to launch off. It's a more board-friendly spot but is still fun to mess around on.

I hope you enjoy these spots as much as I do, and word to the wise: If you park on Boylston be sure to mind the time on your parking meter! The meter maids downtown are vultures and will ticket you the second your time expires.

I have the $25 ticket to prove it.