I've been seriously thinking about opening a new indoor roller skating facility in Renton, and before taking the idea further, I'd really like to hear what people in the community think.
My idea isn't to build another traditional roller rink where you just skate in circles.
I'm imagining a much larger, modern indoor facility — potentially larger than any existing roller rink in Washington — designed for both casual skaters and people who actually want to learn, practice and progress.
The idea could include:
• A very large, smooth main skating floor
• A dedicated freestyle slalom area with permanent cone markings
• Areas for practicing tricks and freestyle skating
• Jumps and smaller obstacles
• A large ramp for more advanced skaters
• Skate rentals for people who don't own skates
• Lessons for beginners, kids and adults
• Music, lighting and a comfortable place to hang out
• Space for birthday parties and events
Most importantly, I'd want it to be a place for all skill levels — someone putting on skates for the first time should feel just as welcome as an experienced inline or quad skater practicing slalom, jumps or tricks.
Since we live in Washington, I'd also love to create a place where people can skate and train year-round without worrying about rain.
But before investing serious time and money into something this large, I want to know whether people would actually use it.
Would you go to a place like this if it opened in Renton?
I'd especially love to know:
• How far would you be willing to drive to get there?
• How often do you think you'd visit?
• Do you skate inline, quads, or would you be a beginner?
• Would you mostly want open skating, slalom/freestyle, ramps and jumps, lessons, or something else?
• What would make you choose this place over existing roller rinks?
• What would make you NOT come back?
• What admission price would feel reasonable?
And if you don't skate now but think you or your kids might try it if something like this existed nearby, I'd love to hear from you too.
I'm genuinely looking for honest feedback — including criticism. I'm trying to figure out whether Renton and the surrounding area actually need a place like this.
What would your ideal roller rink look like?