Skate-O-Mania, a beloved roller‑skating rink in Albuquerque that first opened in 1980, could close as early as the end of November if it cannot obtain insurance coverage, according to co‑owner Courtney Ballew. The rink, which draws between 100,000 and 200,000 visitors each year, has been a fixture for three generations of families, hosting first dates, birthday parties and community events.
“We opened in 1980, and I remember our first day. I was just a little kid, and we’ve been here for generations,” Ballew told KOB. He explained that the business, originally named Roller King, has struggled to secure insurance for the past several months. “Insurance companies are unwilling to cover a skating rink in New Mexico because the state is prone to lawsuits,” he said.
The insurance issue has become acute after the pandemic, with costs reportedly rising more than 1,000%, according to KOAT. Ballew warned that without a policy, the rink may be forced to close by November. “It’s heartbreaking. I wrote a letter to our customers. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done,” he said.
Skate-O-Mania gained national attention when a scene from Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things was filmed at the venue, drawing additional visitors. Yet longtime patrons stress that the rink’s value extends far beyond the television exposure. “I’ve spent most of my life on skates, and Skate-O-Mania feels like a second home,” said longtime skater Tami Taylor, who has been coming for eight years. “I just hope somebody can rescue us and ensure this place so we can continue to skate,” she added.
Local residents recall multi‑generational birthday celebrations at the rink, illustrating its deep roots in the community. Ballew noted a recent example: a family held three successive 11th‑birthday parties—grandmother, daughter and grandson—each at Skate-O-Mania.
While the rink’s future hangs in the balance, Ballew said the next few weeks will determine whether the 47‑year‑old business can remain open. He expressed hope of finding an insurer and indicated that, should the rink stay open, prices may need to be raised to offset higher costs.
What’s next: Skate-O-Mania’s owners are actively seeking an insurance provider and will announce a decision before the end of November. Community members are encouraged to stay informed through the rink’s official communications and consider supporting the venue if it remains open.
