When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Barry's Chelsea
Why Barry's Chelsea is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Barry's Chelsea, situated at 135 W 20th St in New York City, stands out as a premier fitness destination that blends high-energy workouts with a supportive community atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to meet up with friends while pursuing health goals. Known for delivering "The Best Workout in the World™," Barry's specializes in a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) approach that incorporates both cardio and strength training. One of the signature offerings, Barry's RIDE x LIFT, is a dynamic 50-minute class combining low-impact indoor cycling with traditional floor strength training, providing a balanced, full-body workout that caters to a wide range of fitness levels. The Chelsea studio is well equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, showers, lockers, and changing rooms, ensuring comfort before and after workouts. Moreover, the on-site Fuel Bar offers customized shakes and grab-and-go snacks designed to enhance performance and recovery, perfect for fueling post-workout conversations and relaxation. With extended operating hours from early morning to late evening, Barry's Chelsea accommodates various schedules, making it convenient to plan workouts with friends. Its location is also accessible via multiple subway stations and nearby parking, enabling an easy meet-up point. This combination of innovative fitness programming, top-notch facilities, and community focus makes Barry's Chelsea an excellent gathering place for both fitness enthusiasts and social connections alike.
Here's what people think of Barry's Chelsea
As of recent, Barry's Chelsea holds a 4.6-star rating based on 359 reviews.
Reviews for Barry's Chelsea consistently reflect strong appreciation from its clientele, evidenced by a high rating of 4.6 out of 5 from over 350 reviews. Many users praise the studio for its motivating and challenging workout sessions, particularly highlighting the effectiveness of the RIDE x LIFT classes, which blend indoor cycling with strength training to accommodate various fitness preferences. Positive reviews often mention the expertise and energy of the instructors who deliver classes with enthusiasm, fostering an encouraging environment. Additionally, customers commend the cleanliness of the facilities, the convenience of amenities like lockers and showers, and the quality beverages and snacks available at the Fuel Bar. The community atmosphere often stands out, with many users valuing the supportive and inclusive vibe that promotes regular attendance and social engagement. However, some negative feedback points to occasional overcrowding during peak times, which can affect personal space and class availability. A few reviews note that while the pricing may be considered premium, many feel the quality justifies the cost. Additionally, some users express a desire for a "double floor" option for certain classes or more flexible shoe rental options. Overall, the positive reviews heavily outweigh the negatives, underscoring Barry's Chelsea as a highly regarded fitness hub that balances high-impact workouts with strong community ethos, making it well worth exploring for individuals and groups seeking an effective and engaging fitness experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
A.
Went in Jan 2025. The place was really cold to wait for our session to start. Staff struggled to figure out reservations, nor explained how this location was different from my home one, despite me asking. They were more preoccupied with their phones and socializing than being helpful. Otherwise, the instructor was good for the ride class and used our Christmas credits, but I doubt we'll go back to this location.
Bari Dolin Edwards
Barry’s RIDE X LIFT workout is the perfect mix of cardio and strength. The energy is high, the music keeps you motivated, and the instructors know exactly how to push you without it ever feeling overwhelming. Every class feels challenging in the best way. The staff is also fantastic! I accidentally dropped my ring down the sink drain, and everyone jumped in to help without hesitation. They were so kind, attentive, and genuinely determined to get it back for me – and they did! It’s rare to find that level of care and professionalism, especially at a busy fitness studio. Between the killer workout and the genuinely awesome staff, Barry’s just keeps raising the bar!
Michael Rine
It has been a minute since I took Brendon's class. Today reminded me he is really an amazing instructor. Great music and solid workout. Left the red room completely drained. Great class this afternoon
Veronica Leong
This is the only location in NYC that has RIDE x SPIN classes. This location is relatively spacious and well-kept. There's a red room for RUN x LIFT on the main fl and a red room for RIDE x LIFT downstairs. Tons of lockers - a good amt downstairs and a ton upstairs + inside the Men/Women lockers. The Women locker room is spacious. I love the OUAl products and have gotten some tree samples (OUAl, Kiehl's, etc.) a couple of times at the studio through their partnerships. My go-to instructor is John T. on Saturdays! He has great energy throughout the class + does a great job at instructing both bikes + floor simultaneously. Unlike RIDE x LIFT classes, 25 min is spent at bikes/ floor, then you switch once. The lightest weights for their RIDE x LIFT classes is 8lbs. Staff here is nice and helpful, especially in setting up the new studio bikes. First pair of shoes are free, then it's $3 rental afterwards (cheaper than SoulCycle). They can be used for both bike + floor.
Ahmet Fitch
I took a double bike class and absolutely loved it. The instructor (Taylor) brought incredible energy and enthusiasm to the room! it really felt like she was connecting with all of us. It was a challenging workout in the best way possible. I definitely want to take her class again!
How to reach Barry's Chelsea
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Why Barry's Chelsea may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Barry's Chelsea with your friends?
Barry's Chelsea offers an exceptional venue to gather with friends for an energizing and memorable experience that goes far beyond a typical meetup spot. Known for its invigorating fitness atmosphere combined with a vibrant social scene, Barry's Chelsea is the perfect place to rally your crew for both health and fun. Whether your group is packed with fitness fanatics eager to sweat it out or friends simply looking for an engaging way to bond, Barry's Chelsea strikes the ideal balance. The studio’s energetic, high-end environment encourages motivation and push, creating a shared sense of achievement that strengthens friendships. Beyond just a workout location, Barry’s Chelsea fosters a community vibe where camaraderie blossoms through group exercise sessions and post-class refreshments. For anyone who wants to combine wellness, entertainment, and quality time with their circle, Barry’s Chelsea stands out as a compelling choice to rally at, making meetups genuinely rewarding and memorable.
What activities can you do at Barry's Chelsea that make it perfect for a group meetup?
Barry's Chelsea is best known for its signature high-intensity interval training (HIIT) bootcamp classes, which blend treadmill cardio and strength training in a dynamic, 50-minute session. This fitness format is ideal for groups because it provides a structured yet adaptable workout that suits multiple fitness levels, allowing everyone to challenge themselves at their own pace while experiencing collective energy and encouragement. Participants can expect an electrifying atmosphere boosted by motivating instructors and upbeat music, which make the group experience feel almost like a celebration rather than a chore. After working up a sweat, friends can regroup at the studio's Fuel Bar, a dedicated space offering customized shakes and grab-and-go nutritious snacks to replenish energy and socialize in a relaxed setting. The Fuel Bar provides a perfect post-workout spot where friends can chat, compare results, and plan their next sessions. This combination of intense exercise, supportive community, and convenient amenities makes Barry’s Chelsea a top contender for anyone looking to meet up with friends and blend health with social bonding.
How does Barry's Chelsea cater to group needs and enhance the meetup experience?
Barry's Chelsea is strategically designed to amplify the group experience through its layout, scheduling, and community engagement. The spacious studio features the iconic Red Room, a vibrant, dimly lit workout space that adds an intimate yet high-energy ambiance, ideal for cultivating shared focus and motivation within a group. With a wide array of class times throughout the day and week, friends can easily find slots that fit everyone’s schedules, which is crucial for group meetups. The studio's location in Chelsea provides easy access by public transport and parking facilities, smoothing the logistics for groups coming together from different parts of London. Beyond workout sessions, Barry’s Chelsea regularly engages the community with special events, challenges, and collaborations that encourage group participation and sustained motivation. These activities provide opportunities for groups to connect outside the traditional class environment, fostering a deeper sense of belonging and collective achievement. By offering both excellent fitness programming and a community-focused setting, Barry's Chelsea ensures that group meetups are both practical and impactful.
What makes the facilities at Barry's Chelsea conducive to hosting a friendly and fun meetup?
The design and facilities at Barry's Chelsea are optimized for comfort, engagement, and group interaction. The studio’s cutting-edge fitness equipment and meticulous layout ensure that every participant gets including treadmill stations paired with weightlifting setups, allowing groups to move seamlessly between cardio bursts and strength training challenges. The studio’s open reception and lounge areas, including the Fuel Bar, serve as natural social hubs where friends can relax before and after class, enhancing the meetup’s social dimension. The attention to detail in the space — from mood lighting to sound systems pumping motivational tunes — creates an immersive environment that encourages energetic participation and group enthusiasm. The friendly, knowledgeable staff contribute another layer of warmth and support, making groups feel welcomed and valued. This attentiveness to both physical and social surroundings transforms what might have been a simple exercise session into a shared memorable occasion, perfectly suited to host friend and family gatherings.
How does Barry's Chelsea compare with other group meetup options in London?
Compared to many other venues suitable for group meetups such as restaurants, bars, or casual hangout spots, Barry's Chelsea stands apart by combining the benefits of fitness, wellness, and social interaction in one location. Its innovative exercise classes offer not just entertainment but also tangible health benefits — something that simple social venues cannot match. Unlike typical fitness centers, Barry's Chelsea prioritizes creating a community atmosphere with spaces like the Fuel Bar encouraging post-activity mingling. The high rating of 4.6 out of 5 from over 350 reviews reflects strong satisfaction with both the experience and the social environment, which many other meetup venues may lack. Furthermore, the professional quality of the classes, expert trainers, and well-maintained facilities contribute to an elevated group experience that is energizing and immersive. For groups seeking dynamic interaction, health benefits, and social fun, Barry’s Chelsea represents a uniquely powerful alternative within London’s social scene.
What are some tips to make the most of your group meetup at Barry's Chelsea?
To maximize your group meetup experience at Barry’s Chelsea, it’s important to book classes ahead of time since popular sessions fill up quickly, especially for larger groups. Coordinating arrival times to allow for warm-up and socializing before classes can set a positive tone and help everyone feel prepared. Taking advantage of the Fuel Bar after the workout encourages recovery and keeps the group together to chat and motivate. Groups might consider engaging with special events or fitness challenges hosted by Barry’s Chelsea, which add an extra dimension of collective achievement and encourage ongoing meetups. Lastly, sharing the experience on social media or within the Barry’s community can deepen the connection, inspire others to join in, and make your meetup part of a broader fitness journey. By planning thoughtfully and embracing the community spirit, your friends' gathering at Barry’s Chelsea will be both enjoyable and impactful.
In summary, Barry’s Chelsea is an outstanding venue choice for rallying your friends due to its combination of world-class bootcamp workouts, welcoming community vibe, seamless facilities, and social post-exercise settings. It transitions the conventional group meetup from a passive hangout to an active, health-focused, and fun gathering that leaves everyone energized and connected. The high customer satisfaction rating further confirms its reputation as a top fitness and social hub in London. Whether your group is passionate about fitness or simply looking for a new and engaging way to connect, Barry’s Chelsea offers a compelling, memorable setting to come together and enjoy the best of both worlds.