“Where are you located?” is a common question that skate tourists have when it comes to visiting new rinks.
With the advent of smartphones, and mapping software, it seems anyone can find their way, anywhere. And that includes roller skating rinks. Many years ago, before digital mapping, roller skating rinks were commonly situated on a main thoroughfare, and daily drivers were aware of their existence.
Then when real estate started filling in with buildings, and land became more expensive, new rinks were built behind other businesses, like a supermarket, or a McDonalds. In some cases, the rink was there first, and the adjacent lots were later developed. Regardless, the skating rink’s visibility was diminished, and it became more difficult to find it, unless there was great signage, or printed out directions.
Now that we have websites and Google Maps, this is a great opportunity to help skaters easily find their way to the front door. Exterior photos of the sign and building posted on the website under the “Find Us” page are very helpful. So is a Google map. You never know who may be visiting for the first time, or who is from out of town and unfamiliar with the area. Help them easily find what they’re looking for. A picture of the building is one more way to keep people from driving on by.
And don’t forget to add it to the Google Business Page, which appears right next to the map. You can link that page directly to Google Maps. SkyVue Skateland in Rocky Mount, NC is a good example to follow.
Skate on!