Looking to step back in time and try one of America’s most memorable trends from the 1970s? Now is the perfect opportunity. When the weather is still warm but you would rather exercise indoors, roller skating offers a fun way to get moving.
Roller rinks gained popularity in the 1930s as affordable places for families and friends to gather after the Great Depression. By the 1970s, the roller disco era was in full swing. Skating rinks began to resemble nightclubs, complete with disco balls, music and plenty of opportunities to show off the latest fashions.
Although roller skating may not be as popular as it once was, there are still several places nearby where you can lace up a pair of skates and hit the rink.
Skate Zone
Located just off Route 3 in Crofton, Skate Zone has been family-owned and operated since 1996. The rink offers several public skating sessions throughout the week, with admission priced at $8 and skate rentals available for an additional $5. Hours change monthly, so check the online calendar before visiting.
Skate Zone also hosts birthday parties, private events, sports team banquets, STEM field trips, corporate gatherings and more. After skating, visitors can play games in the arcade or grab something to eat at the Rollin’ Cafe.
Children ages 12 and younger can also join the Kids Skate Free Club. The program allows up to six children per family to receive free admission on select days of the week. An annual membership costs $5.99, and skate rental fees may still apply.
Laurel Roller Skating Center
Laurel Roller Skating Center is another nearby option. Skate rentals cost $5, regardless of the day or time.
Family Night takes place every Wednesday from 7 to 10 p.m., with admission priced at $10 for adults and $5 for children. Open-skate sessions are also offered throughout the week, with admission generally ranging from $9 to $12 per person.
Because times are subject to change each month, check the center’s monthly schedule before heading out. Laurel Roller Skating Center also offers birthday parties and lessons for people who want to learn or improve their skating skills.
Buying Your Own Skates
Want to avoid paying a rental fee each time you visit? There are more places to buy roller skates than you might think.
Major retailers such as Walmart, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Target carry roller skates, and some Macy’s locations may offer them as well. You can also search thrift stores such as Goodwill or shop online through skating specialty retailers such as USA Skate Shop and Roller Skate Nation.
Tips for New Skaters
Before heading onto the rink, make sure you have the proper safety equipment, including a helmet, knee pads and elbow pads.
Keep your feet about shoulder-width apart, bend your knees and lean slightly forward to help maintain your balance. Start slowly and give yourself time to become comfortable. People with ice-skating experience may find that some of their balance and movement skills transfer to roller skating.
Whether you are reliving the roller disco era or trying the activity for the first time, roller skating is an entertaining way to stay active, spend time with friends and enjoy a little nostalgia.
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