When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center
Why Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center is a premier destination where students, faculty, and visitors can connect, stay active, and unwind in a vibrant community atmosphere. Spanning over 300,000 square feet on Ferst Drive, this impressive facility offers diverse amenities including a top-tier fitness center equipped with the latest cardio machines like Precor treadmills, Peleton bikes, and Stairmasters, as well as a climbing wall and an elevated indoor track with stunning views of the Atlanta skyline. The center is home to the Coach Herb McAuley Aquatic Center — originally built for the 1996 Olympics — featuring one of the fastest competition pools in the world and hosting varsity swimming and diving teams, aquatic classes, and recreational swimming. Adjacent is the Vernon D. & Helen D. Crawford Pool, which provides a leisure water experience with a 184-foot water slide, current channel, free play area, spa, and outdoor lounge spaces, making it perfect for social gatherings. Multiple multi-purpose courts are available for basketball, volleyball, badminton, and fencing with equipment and day lockers easily accessible. With an extensive calendar of programs, including group fitness classes, intramural sports, personal training, and massage therapy, the Center fosters an energetic environment ideal for meeting friends, pursuing wellness, and engaging in recreation.
Here's what people think of Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center
As of recent, Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center holds a 4.7-star rating based on 863 reviews.
User reviews of the Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center consistently commend the facility's extensive range of amenities, modern equipment, and welcoming atmosphere. Positive feedback frequently highlights the state-of-the-art fitness floor, the Olympic-caliber aquatic center, and the leisure pool as standout features, praising their cleanliness, accessibility, and the variety of activities available. Many users appreciate the availability of multi-purpose courts and the convenience of equipment checkout, which enhances their recreational experience. The supportive community environment and quality of staff, including personal trainers and program coordinators, also receive high marks. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional overcrowding during peak hours and frustrations with reservation systems, especially for popular spaces like pool lanes and courts. A few users note that parking can be a challenge despite the nearby parking deck, and there are remarks about limited availability for certain fitness classes due to high demand. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive ratings and comments reflect a high level of satisfaction among patrons. This suggests that while operational improvements could enhance the experience, Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center effectively serves as a dynamic hub for fitness and social connection.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Subhajit Bag
The Georgia Tech Recreation Center is one of the best campus gyms I’ve seen. It has everything—an Olympic-sized pool with a water slide, diving wells, and lap lanes, a huge rock climbing wall, multiple basketball and squash courts, an indoor track, and tons of workout equipment spread across multiple levels. The design is impressive, with courts suspended above the pool and solar panels powering part of the facility. It’s always clean, well-maintained, and there’s usually space to work out even during busy hours. Sometimes staff response can feel a bit slow, but overall it’s a world-class facility that makes working out or just relaxing really enjoyable.
Pamela Carter
Atlanta Swim Association Championship Swim Meet! My favorite swimmer medaled twice! Thanks Tech for a great experience for the kids!
Mark Moody
I love this campus. It has evolved so beautifully over the last 28 years since I was a student. Wish I could go back. The people and students are amazing there. Go Jackets!
Mario Romero
CRC is a world-class sports facility. It has: an olympic swimming pool, an olympic diving pool, a recreational pool with slides, a fully-equipped gym, a climbing wall, 6 basketball courts, two racquetball courts, one squash court, one badminton course, one golf simulator, several flexible studios for training group sports, a spinning studio, combat studios, vending machines, rest and study areas, a food court, an outdoor sun deck, and several help desks where you can borrow all the equipment necessary. It is a jewel for Georgia Tech students, staff, and alumni and their families.
Nick Grivas
This is an excellent gym with all the equipment and facilities I need. All GT students know this already and I know many alumni who maintain an alumni membership after graduation particularly if you want to swim. Things can get pretty busy in the evenings as with any gym but there is plenty of space to get a workout in anyway. I’ve also rented portions of the facility for events and it has always been an excellent experience. The staff has been professional and more than helpful during planning and execution of the event. Parking can be a bit of a pain but as long as your guests know ahead of time we haven’t had many complaints.
How to reach Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center
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Why Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at the Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center with your friends? Because it offers a unique combination of world-class facilities, a vibrant atmosphere, and versatile spaces that cater to groups looking for both fun and fitness. Whether you and your friends are fitness enthusiasts, water lovers, or simply want to spend quality time in a dynamic environment, the CRC (Campus Recreation Center) stands out as an exceptional destination. Its history as an Olympic venue adds a prestigious edge to your meetup, giving you a chance to enjoy facilities originally built for the 1996 Summer Olympics. Beyond its impressive size—spanning over 300,000 square feet—the center is designed to engage groups in a variety of active and relaxing pursuits, blending fitness, recreation, and social connection seamlessly. The balance of high-energy activities such as swimming competitions, basketball games, and climbing, alongside leisure options like lounging by the water slide or enjoying a spa moment, creates an environment perfectly suited for group interactions. Rallying here guarantees a shared experience that promotes health, teamwork, and memorable moments, making it much more than a typical meetup spot.
What activities can you and your friends enjoy at the Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center? The CRC offers an extensive range of activities that cater to all interests and fitness levels, providing something for every member of your group. For aquatic lovers, the Coach Herb McAuley Aquatic Center features a world-class competition pool—the same one used in the 1996 Olympics—perfect for swim meets or recreational laps. Adjacent is the Vernon D. & Helen D. Crawford Pool, tailored for relaxation and fun with six 25-yard lanes, a thrilling 184-foot water slide, a current channel, free play areas, and even a 16-person spa. With such diverse aquatic options, groups can split their time between vigorous exercise and leisure relaxation. For those preferring land sports, the main gymnasium includes six multi-purpose courts suitable for basketball, volleyball, badminton, and fencing, all easily accessible to groups and equipped with necessary gear available for checkout. The facility also boasts an indoor running track overlooking the Atlanta skyline, ideal for group runs or competitive sprints. If climbing excites your group, the first-floor climbing wall provides challenging routes and a shared adventurous experience. Additionally, the state-of-the-art fitness center is stocked with top-tier cardio machines, strength training equipment, and studios for fitness classes, making it convenient for everyone to find an activity that suits their style and energy.
Why is the Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center perfect for a group meetup? One of the center’s strongest points is its thoughtful design geared toward accommodating groups of various sizes with ease and flexibility. The six multi-purpose courts on the fourth floor can be reserved, making them perfect for organized team practices or friendly tournaments among friends or family. This reservation system ensures your group enjoys exclusive access, avoiding conflicts with other users. For smaller gatherings, studios and workout rooms provide intimate settings for group fitness classes or yoga sessions. The outdoor Roe Stamps fields adjacent to the CRC expand options further with versatile open spaces like four flag football fields, two soccer fields, two softball fields, and sand volleyball courts. These outdoor fields are ideal for large meetups, barbecue get-togethers, or informal sports games, bringing an element of nature into your social gathering. The facilities also offer day lockers, making it easy and secure for groups to store valuables while they enjoy all the activities. This combination of indoor and outdoor facilities, all integrated within one complex, creates a seamless, multi-activity experience that keeps every member of your group engaged and entertained.
How does the facility support wellness and community connection for groups? Beyond pure recreation, the CRC fosters wellness and communal bonds through its programming and inclusive atmosphere. Students and employees alike can access the full range of facilities and participate in group fitness classes available through Fitness Class all-access passes. These classes include options like spinning, yoga, and high-intensity interval training, structured to motivate and energize groups when they workout together. For those interested in personal improvement, personal training and massage therapy services are offered, providing opportunities for friends to engage in wellness journeys side by side. The CRC also offers intramural sports leagues, where groups can compete together in friendly competitions like basketball, soccer, or volleyball, strengthening teamwork and camaraderie. Outdoor recreation programs invite groups to participate in activities including scuba diving lessons and special events that further enrich the social and fitness community. Additionally, the center’s sustainable infrastructure, such as solar panels on the roof that heat pool water and produce electricity, reflects a commitment to environmental wellness—a conversation point to rally around for eco-conscious groups. Altogether, the CRC is more than a fitness complex; it’s a wellness hub designed to build lasting connections among its participants.
What makes the location and facility so convenient and accessible for hosting your group? Located on Ferst Drive within the Georgia Tech campus in Atlanta, the Campus Recreation Center offers excellent accessibility for students, employees, and visitors alike. The facility houses a large parking deck nearby, with 550 parking spaces spread across three levels, easing the challenge of group transportation and parking. The center’s five floors are thoughtfully arranged to accommodate large crowds, with easy navigation between pools, gymnasiums, the fitness center, and outdoor sports fields. Group meetups benefit from amenities like day lockers for secure storage and an equipment desk where basketballs, volleyballs, badminton rackets, and fencing gear are available for checkout, reducing the need to bring bulky items. Its proximity to campus resources, including dining and social spaces in the nearby John Lewis Student Center, allows meetups to flow naturally from physical activity to social relaxation and dining without hassle. In sum, the CRC’s location and infrastructure are optimized to make group gatherings smooth, enjoyable, and efficient, removing logistical barriers to a great shared experience.
How does the Olympic history of the Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center enhance your meetup? The CRC’s direct connection to the 1996 Summer Olympics adds a unique historical and inspirational element to every visit. The competition pool was built for Olympic athletes, making it one of the fastest pools in the world and a site where international athletes have competed. Meeting and exercising in a facility with such an extraordinary pedigree adds a layer of excitement and pride to group activities. It’s not only a place for casual fun but one that carries Olympic legacy and spirit, motivating groups to push themselves and celebrate athleticism. The Olympic-standard amenities also ensure top-quality experiences, from precise pool configurations to advanced timing equipment for swimmers. This history enriches meetups by connecting everyday fitness and recreation to a momentous global sporting event, creating shared stories your group will remember and cherish.
What special events or programs can groups participate in at the CRC? The Campus Recreation Center hosts a variety of events tailored for group engagement. Beyond daily recreational use, the facility organizes special events such as swim meets, climbing competitions, and fitness challenges that groups can attend or enter as teams. There are also arts and crafts opportunities through nearby spaces like Paper & Clay, where your group can try pottery, jewelry making, or custom crafts—perfect for those looking for a more creative meetup activity beyond sports. For social events, group reservations are supported not only for courts and fields but also for pools and studio rooms, allowing for tailored meetups with food and decorations if desired. Intramural sports leagues run through the year facilitate regular group competition in a fun, structured format. Outdoor recreation programming, including adventure trips and classes like scuba diving, further diversify options. These dynamic offerings make the CRC a hub for special group-oriented programming that fosters community spirit and keeps your gatherings fresh and engaging.
Why do users consistently rate the Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center highly? With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 860 reviews, user feedback highlights the CRC’s exceptional blend of facility quality, staff professionalism, and diverse programming. Visitors appreciate the clean, well-maintained environment and the top-notch equipment that supports serious training as well as casual recreation. The availability of multiple activity options in one location maximizes convenience and enjoyment, especially for groups with varied interests. Members commend the welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that encourages people of all fitness levels to participate and thrive socially. The ability to reserve spaces easily and the helpfulness of employees contribute to smooth, hassle-free experiences. Collectively, these factors create a facility that users trust as a dependable, fun, and safe place for group fitness and recreation, making it an outstanding venue to bring friends and family together.
What considerations should groups keep in mind when planning a meetup at the CRC? While the CRC offers many advantages, there are practical details groups should consider for the best experience. Booking reservations ahead of time for courts, pools, or outdoor fields is recommended to secure your desired time slots, especially during peak hours or special events. Bringing appropriate attire and a lock for day lockers ensures comfort and security during activities. Check facility hours and any membership requirements; Georgia Tech students and employees have extensive access, but visitors might need guest passes or memberships. Some fitness classes or special programs require purchase of passes or advance sign-up, so plan accordingly if these interest your group. Lastly, be mindful of facility policies regarding food, noise, and group sizes to respect other users and maintain the positive environment the CRC is known for. Advance planning and awareness of these details help your group maximize enjoyment and create a smooth, memorable day at the Campus Recreation Center.
In conclusion, the Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center stands out as an exceptional venue for meetups with friends and family. Its Olympic pedigree, wide array of indoor and outdoor activities, and thoughtful amenities create a dynamic space where groups of all interests and fitness levels can connect, compete, and unwind. The center’s welcoming environment, combined with convenient location and reservation options, make it easy to organize memorable gatherings that promote wellness and community spirit. Whether you’re catching up over laps in the world-class pool, shooting hoops on the gym courts, climbing challenging walls, or simply relaxing by the leisure pool and spa, the CRC offers an unparalleled backdrop for group enjoyment. Choosing this center means more than a place to be active; it’s an investment in shared experiences and lasting relationships through health, fun, and teamwork.