Upper West Side
Skateboard Lessons on the Upper West Side
Riverside Skatepark, Central Park, and quiet neighborhood streets. One-on-one lessons on the UWS.
Why Learn on the Upper West Side
Riverside Skatepark
One of Manhattan's best skateparks sits right in the neighborhood at 108th Street. It's compact and well-built, with trees on all sides. Leon teaches here regularly because it has features for every level without the intensity of downtown parks.
A Neighborhood That Supports It
The UWS has families, park space, and a community that actually uses its outdoor areas. Skating here doesn't feel like fighting for space. People walk their dogs past you. Nobody cares that you fell.
Where Lessons Happen
Leon teaches at parks and open spaces across the Upper West Side. Here are the most common spots.
Riverside Skatepark
Tucked into Riverside Park at 108th Street. Smooth bowl, flat area, and trees everywhere. Leon's go-to for UWS lessons because it has something for every skill level.
Central Park (West Side Paths)
Wide pathways near the 72nd and 81st Street entrances on the west side. Good flat ground for beginners who want to learn pushing, turning, and stopping before stepping into a skatepark.
Riverside Drive Open Spaces
Smooth pavement along Riverside Drive works well for cruising practice and flat-ground fundamentals. Leon likes these spots for younger students or anyone who wants a quieter first lesson.
What to Expect
Leon asks what you’re working on before anything else. From there, he builds the session around you.
Beginners learn stance, balance, and pushing. Returning skaters work on whatever comes next, whether that’s transitions, tricks, or just getting more comfortable. Lessons are about an hour. Leon brings boards and helmets. Wear flat-soled sneakers.
Lesson Rates
All lessons include boards, helmets, and travel to your chosen spot on the Upper West Side.
Private Lesson
$120
per hour
3-Lesson Package
$300
save $60
Group Lesson
$80
per person
What Students Say
“I'm 38 and never thought I'd learn to skate. Leon changed that in one lesson. His patience is unmatched.”
Sarah K.
Google Review
“Leon, besides being an exceptional skater, is incredibly insightful and helpful when it comes to teaching and breaking down tricks in a very digestible way.”
Da C.
Google Review
Frequently Asked Questions
Riverside Skatepark at 108th Street is the main spot. Leon also teaches on the west side of Central Park and at flat open areas along Riverside Drive, depending on what you're working on.
Private lessons are $120 per hour. The 3-lesson package is $300 ($100 per session), and group lessons are $80 per person with a 2-person minimum. Boards and helmets included.
It has a mix of terrain, including flat areas that work well for new skaters. Leon keeps beginners on the mellow sections and only moves to transitions when you're ready.
No. Leon brings boards and helmets to every lesson. If you have your own, bring it and he'll check that it's set up right.
About half of Leon's students are adults. Many are picking up a board for the first time in their 30s or 40s. It's never weird and never too late.
Fill out the form at leontoppin.com/book or text Leon at (914) 294-4407. He'll confirm your date, time, and meeting spot within a day.
Start Skating on the Upper West Side
Book a private lesson with Leon at Riverside Skatepark or a spot near you.