After months of uncertainty without a physical location, a downtown Winnipeg skate park started a new chapter across from Canada Life Centre. “I think it’s awesome, it’s definitely a bit smaller than our last location, but we made it work,” said Fane Smeall, manager at Píhtikwé Skatepark. “It’s still central downtown, easy to get to.” Now located at 323 Portage Ave. the skatepark took over a space that was the former home of a Snap Fitness 24/7 gym across from the Winnipeg Jets arena. Píhtikwé Skatepark started originally in the former Staples location inside Portage Place Mall. It closed in September 2025 due to the ongoing redevelopment of the mall. “We’re scrambling for locations pretty hard, finding a space in the city,” Smeall said on Saturday. “It’s kind of cool with the two levels and everything.” Smeall said it’s important for skateboard riders to still have an indoor facility downtown, a place to meet new friends and people before the weather turns cold. “I think it’s really important for at least skateboarders, in the winter we have six months or more of the year that you can’t skate outside, for people to stay skating, and I think it’s really good for the community,” he said. The skatepark offers a lot of open sessions and opportunities for kids 17 and under to come learn how to ride a skateboard. Smeall said for new interested riders to not be worried about your skill set prior to giving the place a try with a welcoming atmosphere. “It’s all about persistence, and it’s definitely worth it,” he said. “Any opportunity we have for youth to get in here, even if we’re busy that week or day, we’re going to make it happen for them.” More details on their hours can be found on their website.
