Funky's: We Just Want to Have Fun!

(Photo Courtesy of John Simpson)

Do not fret, I promise I am a trained roller-blading professional, as evidenced by the photograph above. As difficult as it is to believe, I was not always adept on inline skates. 

Sticking to the theme of cost-efficient forms of entertainment in the Harrisonburg area, Funky's grades out just fine. Funky's Skate Center is an indoor skating rink located at 100 Miller Circle, which is off of South Main Street and close to the restaurant El Charro. During the week, Funky's is open on Wednesdays from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. and on Fridays from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. On Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, Funky's allows for private rental of their facility for those interested. On Saturdays, Funky's has varying hours and special events throughout the day. Sundays has open hours hours from 1 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Rates for admission range from two dollars to seven dollars, depending on the day of the week and event taking place. Skate rentals are one dollar for regular skates and three dollars for a pair of fancy inline skates. If you are feeling lucky and skillful, pick the latter of the two!

Enough monotonous operational information, where does the fun begin? Straight ahead, but make sure you turn in time!

(Photo Courtesy of John Simpson)

The main rink within the building is in the shape of an oval, similar to many NASCAR tracks. Skaters are free to go at their own pace and can rest their legs on seats placed around the hardwood skating floor. Skating really is an art of sorts. There are many Harrisonburg locals who frequent Funky's and when they move around the rink, their legs swoop back and forth with a tremendous amount of agility and precision. On the other hand, there are many JMU students who attend and do not look as graceful on moving wheels.

Funky's provides a fun and low-cost option for people visiting the area, Harrisonburg locals and JMU students. It hosts special events of different varieties. These include roller derby tournaments, birthday parties and concerts. We The Kings, a pop-punk band from Florida, was featured in 2009 with a concert that took place at Funky's. 

Ding ding ding, we have a clear-cut winner! Special events, good times with friends and a snack bar, sounds like a perfect college hang out spot. But concerts featuring big name bands? You can call that the epitome of an added bonus.

(Photo Courtesy of Funky's website)

Funky's receives an A in my book. They are very people friendly, customer service is over the top, and the atmosphere suits individuals of all ages. 

JMU students should be spending time at Funky's on Friday and Saturday nights as there is nothing else in the area like it.