Burnside Skate Park

Probably the most famous and iconic skatepark in the USA. Every skateboarder has heard of it. If you show up without any intention to skate, don't be surprised if you get some looks of disgust. The locals are very territorial and don't like when tourists come to gawk at them.

Many of the guys here are a pleasure to visit with and good for the soul. If I wasn't so stove-up and fat, I would dust off the old Powell-Peralta with those big spongy urethane wheels and have a go at it.

But I digress, this review is in regards to the SkatePark Pirate: Pictures included

The Banty Gestapo Rooster aggressively patrols and targets people who are taking, or attempting to take pictures, demanding they buy beer -- to be distributed by him among the skaters -- in return for unlimited photography privileges at this Portland Public Skate Park.

Take pictures without paying beer-fees, and he jumps directly and insultingly in front of your camera -- as seen in photographs.

Signs that prohibit alcohol are fairly clearly posted and yes there are minors around at any given time, so I can highly recommend not falling for this trap?! If you get pinched and charged for contributing alcohol to minors, you will be arrested and jailed!! I've seen it happen here in Portland as far back as the 1970's.

Suggestions for the local tribal skate council, is to self-police the bully's who practice toll-collecting-shakedown techniques towards people who exercise photography rights in public spaces.
In a world where everybody carries a camera, pictures will be taken, relax and get over it.

As a Marine Corps veteran and old school film street photographer, my freedom of imaging rights in public spaces are just as important as skating is to you.

Sincerely, Mecate

The ground beneath the Burnside bridge has been transformed into a concrete skate Mecca.

It has been featured in several skate videos in the past and continues to be Portland’s main skate attraction, even being featured in `Tony Hawk's Pro Skater` video game. It has been gradually expanded to the entire area under the bridge. It features two concrete bowls (one affectionately called the `death bowl`) as well as several quarter pipes and corner bowls that reach vert. There is a spine and a half pyramid to the side and the entire park has good coping and high walls.

For more skate parks, visit SkateOregon.com

It's pretty sweet, even if you don't skate; like the dude below said, if you don't show up to skate you'll probably get some looks. That being said if you bring some beer, you'll always be welcomed.