Perhaps the most lasting physical legacy of Oak Harbor’s rich Dutch history is the iconic, round-roofed Neil Barn. Built by Otto Van Dyk in 1912, it was once the largest barn on the West Coast. With craftsmanship still on display today, the barn and nearby water tower have earned their places as historic landmarks. Today, they stand surrounded by apartments and residential developments, a stark reminder that the site was once at the center of hundreds of acres of farmland.
This barn has lived many lives, though. Upon its completion, a grand barn-warming was held, with an orchestra brought by boat from the mainland. After a few decades of serving as a dairy, the barn was restored and refitted as a skating rink in 1950, earning its current name of the Roller Barn. Roller skating and competitive dance skating became popular local pastimes, and this era would also see the construction of Blue Fox Drive-In and the Oak Bowl.
Today, the Roller Barn is a beloved community gathering place and a link to Oak Harbor’s history. Patrons still enjoy roller skating, along with pickleball, laser tag, concerts, parties, and a spooky annual haunted house! The much-loved barn is family-owned and operated.
Check out their site at therollerbarn.com for hours and events and stop in for a skate at 98 NE Barron Drive Oak Harbor.
This listing is part of our Cultural and Heritage Guide.
Look for the guide at Visitor Centers throughout Whidbey and Camano Islands.
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