Why Des Moines could become a regional rollerskating mecca

Rollerskating has experienced a resurgence thanks to the pandemic and a 90s renaissance, and Des Moines is in a unique position to take it to the next level with the upcoming Lauridsen Skatepark.

Why it matters: One-of-a-kind attractions will draw needed tourists and money once the pandemic recovery starts in earnest.

The big picture: Katie Baird, a career skater in Des Moines, said the park will be huge for people like her who travel 2+ hours to practice at skateparks.

• Baird, aka Bambi Bloodlust, moved to Des Moines in 2019 — a week after skating the whole week of RAGBRAI with her boyfriend.
• She said large concrete parks are atypical in the Midwest, so she expects it to draw in both professional and amateur skaters regionally.
• "It's huge to have a facility like this in our backyard," Baird said. "It's like a training ground opening for us — it's so much opportunity."

Beyond pro skaters, there's an influx of new skaters that you've likely seen on the trails or around your neighborhood, according to Rollerskate Des Moines founder Charissa Thornton-Raysby.

• The park could inspire the new batch of pandemic skaters to get immersed in the sport or inspire bystanders to lace up, she said.

Her tips for newbies:

• Hit up Des Moines' extensive bike trail system.
• Find smooth parking lots to practice in.
• Don't be shy — join her club!

My thought bubble: Nothing was more fun than cracking glow sticks and rolling around Skate West.