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Leon Toppin with a group of skaters after a skateboard session at a New York park

Dobbs Ferry

Skateboard Lessons in Dobbs Ferry

Private skateboard instruction in the heart of the Rivertowns.

Why Learn in Dobbs Ferry

A Rivertowns Village Built for Walking

Dobbs Ferry is compact and walkable, with smooth sidewalks along Main Street and paved paths through its parks. That kind of surface is exactly what a new skater needs to build confidence without fighting cracked pavement or steep hills.

No Skatepark, No Problem

There's no skatepark in Dobbs Ferry, which is a plus for beginners. Memorial Park and Waterfront Park give students open, flat ground to learn on without the pressure of an audience. When you're ready for park riding, Leon can take you to nearby Hastings.

Dobbs Ferry sits right in the middle of the Rivertowns corridor, a stretch of Hudson River villages between Yonkers and Tarrytown that families move to for the schools, the commute, and the pace of life. It’s the kind of place where kids ride bikes on the sidewalk and parents walk to the coffee shop — and that same low-key atmosphere makes it a great spot to learn to skate.

Leon brings private lessons directly to Dobbs Ferry so residents don’t have to drive to find instruction. Memorial Park on Palisade Street has 3.5 acres of flat, paved ground that works well for first-timers. For students who can already push and turn, the paths near the Old Croton Aqueduct trail and the waterfront offer longer runs with solid surfaces. The nearest skatepark is Riverview Park in Hastings-on-Hudson, about two miles south, and Leon is happy to meet there once a student is ready.

Where Lessons Happen

Leon teaches at parks and open spaces throughout Dobbs Ferry. Here are the main spots.

Memorial Park

A 3.5-acre park on Palisade Street with flat, paved areas and open space. Leon uses it for beginners learning stance and pushing, and for kids who do best in a calm, familiar setting.

Waterfront Park

Paved paths along the Hudson with smooth surfaces and river views. A good spot for students working on cruising, turning, and building comfort on longer rides.

Main Street & Aqueduct Paths

The sidewalks along Main Street and paths near the Old Croton Aqueduct trail offer well-maintained pavement with a gentle grade. Leon teaches here when students are ready to practice riding over real-world terrain.

What to Expect

Leon travels to Dobbs Ferry for lessons, so you pick the spot that works best — Waterfront Park, Memorial Park, or one of the paved stretches along the Old Croton Aqueduct. The waterfront paths are wide and smooth, great for learning to push and cruise. If you’re brand new, here’s what to know before your first lesson. Students who’ve been skating pick up wherever they left off, working on turns, speed control, or new tricks.

Each session runs about an hour. Leon can bring a board if you don’t have one yet, though having your own is encouraged. Flat-soled shoes are a must — thick, curved soles make it harder to feel the board. Helmets are required for anyone under 18. Once you’re comfortable skating on your own, the Westchester skateparks guide maps out the closest parks to keep practicing.

Want to try it yourself?

Book a private lesson with Leon. NYC and Westchester, all ages and skill levels.

Lesson Rates

Leon travels to you. Board available if needed. No extra charge for travel in Dobbs Ferry.

Want to skate regularly? See all lesson options — duo, monthly, and multi-session

What Students Say

★★★★★

“I took three lessons with Leon this year, and can say that he is a naturally gifted teacher. I would confidently recommend him to anyone at any skating level— he’s supportive and kind, but challenges you to hit the edge of your comfort zone.”

Greta H.

Google Review

★★★★★

“Leon is the best! One of the most encouraging, supportive and honest skaters in the game. Helped me so much in my skateboarding journey and learning the culture of what can be an intimidating sport and lifestyle.”

Aisha W.

Google Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Start Skating in Dobbs Ferry

Book a private lesson with Leon at a park or path near you.