When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Edgewater Athletic Club
Why Edgewater Athletic Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Edgewater Athletic Club stands out as a full-service neighborhood gym blending historic charm with modern fitness amenities, making it a great place to meet up with friends and engage in wellness activities. Located in the historic Sovereign Hotel building in Chicago’s Edgewater community, the gym features a unique atmosphere enhanced by the preservation of the original Grand Ballroom now used as the gym space. This setting provides a distinctive and inviting environment for group fitness as well as solo workouts. The club offers a wide variety of workout options including strength training, free weights, cardio machines, and regular fitness classes such as yoga, making it suitable for different fitness interests and levels. Beyond land-based fitness, the club boasts a 20-yard indoor pool where swimmers of all ages and abilities can participate in lap swimming, swim instruction, and team practices, including a youth USA Swimming team focused on competitive development and personal growth. Additional wellness amenities such as a steam room and massage therapy add to the relaxation and recovery options post-workout. With convenient access near public transit and available parking, along with memberships, class packages, and drop-in options, Edgewater Athletic Club is an accessible and diverse fitness destination for socializing and staying active with friends.
Here's what people think of Edgewater Athletic Club
As of recent, Edgewater Athletic Club holds a 4.2-star rating based on 123 reviews.
User reviews of Edgewater Athletic Club present a generally positive impression with a 4.2-star average rating from 123 reviews. Many users appreciate the gym's unique historic setting combined with modern fitness facilities, highlighting the well-maintained swimming pool and the diverse class offerings including yoga and swimming lessons as standout features. Positive feedback often references the friendly and knowledgeable staff, the convenience of location close to public transit, and the availability of multiple membership options fitting different needs. The swim programs, particularly the youth swim team and structured swim lessons led by experienced instructors, receive praise for their inclusivity and nurturing coaching environment. On the downside, some reviewers mention issues with billing and difficulties when attempting to cancel memberships, indicating areas for administrative improvement. A few complaints also touch on communication challenges with the club's management. Overall, while there are some operational criticisms, the favorable comments about the range and quality of athletic services and the welcoming community atmosphere predominate, suggesting Edgewater Athletic Club is well-regarded as a neighborhood fitness hub.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Burger Mata
Dropped $59 for a monthly membership at Edgewater Athletic Club, hoping for a solid neighborhood gym experience. The vintage vibe is charming, but the equipment feels outdated, and the locker rooms could use some TLC. Had issues with billing—was charged after canceling, and communication was lacking. Appreciate the community feel, but the management needs to step up.
Jackie Acker Garland (Chicago Photo Mom)
No frills gym but the prices are very reasonable. Phillip and Jordan were helpful at the front desk and the BEST MASSEUSE works here. Aaron Hanna does the best soft tissue work and you go through the gym to get to his office. The gym is unique because it is in an old ballroom so there are literally chandeliers in the workout area!!! I want to check out swim lessons here for the kids 10 sessions for $70/hr!
Jacob H.
Been a member for a few months now. One of the best things about this gym is no sketchy shady contracts like I've encountered at other gyms. They were straight forward with pricing where you can do it month to month, up to annual up front, where longer terms will get you a bigger discount with a 30 day cancellation policy. Everyone who works there is friendly and it's pretty clean. There is a pool, and free towels. I haven't done the massage or any of the classes yet, but really like this gym.
Aleksey Lichtman
Very expensive for the state that the gym is at. Everything is very old and rusty. I went specifically for the pool. Different people gave me different pool schedules, which was very confusing on when pool is available or not. Pool itself is nice, mostly clean. 18 meters long, half is 3 feet deep and other half is about 6 feet deep. Warm water, comfortable to swim in. They have 30 days cancellation policy, so I went to cancel my membership and asked until when can I still access the gym. They said my membership renews tomorrow, so they simply won’t enforce 30 days cancelation policy, took my key tag and said I am good to go. But this morning they charged me again. Called them, they said sorry for mistake, but we don’t do refunds. The cancellation quest will probably not be such a problem for the most people.
Matt Greenberger
Solid gym with older but high-quality equipment and plenty of machines and weights. The pool is well-maintained and the sauna is currently working after a time of disrepair. The staff is friendly enough but often can't answer questions or channel suggestions or requests - what you see is what you get. (Except the photos on the website. Some of that stuff is nothing like the actual club. Take with a grain of salt.) Very satisfactory club if your goal is exercise without frills.
How to reach Edgewater Athletic Club
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Why Edgewater Athletic Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Edgewater Athletic Club with your friends?
When searching for a dynamic, welcoming, and versatile place to gather with friends or family, Edgewater Athletic Club stands out as an exceptional choice. Nestled in Chicago’s vibrant Edgewater neighborhood, this full-service athletic club seamlessly blends historic charm with modern fitness amenities, making it an inviting space to rally your group. The unique setting—housed in the original Grand Ballroom of the historic Sovereign Hotel—offers a distinct and memorable atmosphere that enhances any meet-up experience. Whether your group is fitness-focused or simply seeking a social outing with a healthy twist, Edgewater Athletic Club provides an inclusive environment catering to all levels of athletic ability and interests. Its highly rated pool, varied fitness classes, and relaxing steam room create a perfect balance of activity and relaxation, ensuring everyone in your party finds something engaging and rejuvenating. Conveniently located just two blocks from the Granville CTA red line stop and offering nearby free parking, it is incredibly accessible, removing logistical barriers from your plans. Rallying here means combining quality social time with invigorating exercise and wellness, which fosters stronger bonds and shared experiences beyond the typical meetup activities.
What activities can groups enjoy together at Edgewater Athletic Club?
Edgewater Athletic Club caters to diverse fitness and wellness preferences with its broad range of activities designed to accommodate individuals and groups alike. The club boasts an impressive 20-yard, five-lane indoor pool, an ideal place for water lovers to swim laps, take swim lessons, or simply play and relax together. Groups can even rent the pool for private parties or special occasions, providing a unique aquatic backdrop for celebrations or team-building events. For those who prefer land-based workouts, the club’s well-equipped gym is stocked with free weights, cardio machines, and strength training equipment, perfect for a group fitness session or some friendly competition. There are also regular group fitness classes such as yoga, which promote wellness and mindfulness—great for fostering group cohesion and mutual support.
Additionally, Edgewater Athletic Club offers swim instruction classes suited for all ages and skill levels, making it an excellent spot for families or mixed-age groups to learn and improve swimming skills together. The club features a steam room that enhances fitness recovery, relaxation, and social downtime after workouts, offering a soothing space for friends to unwind and connect. Special programs, such as Filipino Martial Arts training, offer a cultural and fitness experience that groups interested in martial arts or something different can share. Every aspect of the club, from cardio to massages, supports both energetic workouts and restorative wellness, making it a versatile destination for groups with varied interests and fitness capabilities.
Why is Edgewater Athletic Club perfect for group meetups?
Edgewater Athletic Club excels as a venue for group meetups due to its comprehensive amenities, historic ambiance, and flexible use options. First, it offers memberships, class packages, day passes, and single drop-ins, allowing groups to choose the membership style that suits their frequency and commitment to visits. This flexibility invites casual visitors and committed fitness enthusiasts alike, ideal for groups with differing schedules and levels of dedication. The spacious layout—including the grand ballroom-turned-gym and the five-lane indoor pool—provides enough room for groups to exercise simultaneously without feeling crowded or rushed.
Moreover, the club encourages social interaction through group classes and shared workout spaces. Fitness activities like yoga and group training sessions strengthen camaraderie by enabling participants to encourage one another, share progress, and make the experience fun and motivating. The availability of pool rentals for private parties and the option to organize special group swim or martial arts classes helps create personalized events tailored to the interests and needs of your meetup. The steam room and massage therapy services complement these physical activities, offering recovery and relaxation sessions that let groups spend quality time chatting and bonding in a comfortable, healthy environment.
Accessibility is another major advantage; being close to public transit and free parking areas eliminates common logistical frustrations, enabling hassle-free visits. In addition, the friendly and knowledgeable staff help groups by providing tours, assistance with class registration, and advice about the best activities for your group’s interests. This comprehensive support ensures meetups run smoothly, making each visit enjoyable and stress-free. Whether your group is seeking fitness-focused bonding or a balanced blend of activity and relaxation, Edgewater Athletic Club’s diverse offerings and club culture make it an excellent meetup destination.
How can Edgewater Athletic Club enhance your group’s wellness journey?
Edgewater Athletic Club goes beyond traditional gym services by integrating wellness into its fitness offerings, creating a holistic environment for groups aiming to improve their health together. Fitness classes such as yoga encourage not only physical flexibility but also mental calmness, fostering a mindful atmosphere that benefits all participants. The club’s steam room is a particularly valuable wellness feature: regular use can improve circulation, enhance skin health, aid in muscle recovery, and provide deep relaxation, making it a rejuvenating complement to any workout.
For groups looking to incorporate private or customized wellness experiences, the club offers personal training and private swim instruction that can be tailored to the specific goals or skill levels of participants. Massage therapy is another vital wellness asset, assisting with muscle tension relief and further enhancing recovery after physical exertion. These services promote a balanced approach to health, helping groups maintain motivation and avoid burnout.
Additionally, the club’s focus on community and camaraderie supports mental and emotional wellness, as exercising and relaxing in a group boost motivation and accountability. Whether your group aims to tackle new fitness goals, unwind after a busy day, or learn new skills in a supportive setting, Edgewater Athletic Club fosters a positive and inclusive wellness culture. This environment empowers groups to pursue healthier lifestyles collectively, with professional guidance and spaces designed for recovery and growth.
What makes the location and environment of Edgewater Athletic Club unique?
Located in the heart of Edgewater, Chicago, the club’s presence within the historic Sovereign Hotel distinguishes it dramatically from typical gyms. The preservation of the hotel’s original Grand Ballroom as the gym space infuses the club with classic architectural grandeur that heightens the overall experience. Unlike standard fitness centers, this unique setting combines heritage aesthetics with state-of-the-art amenities, offering guests a visually rich and inspiring place to exercise and socialize.
The surrounding neighborhood adds to the appeal, featuring easy access to public transit, numerous dining options, and community services that complement a day out. For groups looking to extend their meetup beyond the gym, the nearby urban environment allows for post-workout meals or social gatherings in local cafes and restaurants, creating a full-day itinerary. Free nearby parking facilitates attendance for those driving, ensuring convenience across access modes.
Inside, the club maintains a welcoming and clean atmosphere, with locker rooms and towel services enhancing comfort. Multiple activity zones accommodate diverse workout styles simultaneously, avoiding overcrowding and ensuring quality time for all members. This blend of history, urban convenience, and modern facility design creates an unmatched environment that encourages repeat visits and fosters lasting friendships formed around shared health and wellness pursuits.
How does Edgewater Athletic Club cater to different fitness levels and interests in a group?
Edgewater Athletic Club is designed with inclusivity in mind, welcoming members and visitors across a broad spectrum of fitness levels and personal interests. Whether your group includes beginners, fitness veterans, children, or seniors, the club’s array of activities ensures everyone can participate meaningfully. The free weights and cardio zones cater to individual workouts, allowing serious strength training or casual aerobic movement as preferred.
Fitness classes, including yoga and martial arts, offer structured group exercises accommodating various skill levels with modifications and instructor support. The swim instruction program especially highlights personalized attention, placing swimmers in classes according to their abilities and goals—this ensures everyone has a positive and safe learning experience. For more dedicated skill development or injury recovery, private training and massage therapy services provide expert care.
This variety maintains engagement and motivation across different fitness profiles within a group, creating a supportive atmosphere that encourages members to challenge themselves while respecting their personal limits. The club’s welcoming culture and staff expertise ensure that all participants feel valued, capable, and inspired to pursue healthier lifestyles together.
With its extensive facilities, historic charm, flexible membership options, and inclusive programming, Edgewater Athletic Club offers an ideal setting for groups of friends or families to meet, exercise, and relax together. This vibrant community hub invites you to rally with your loved ones and create memorable health-focused gatherings that strengthen your bonds while enhancing your wellbeing.