When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Gerald Ratner Athletics Center

Why Gerald Ratner Athletics Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Gerald Ratner Athletics Center stands out as a premier location for meeting up with friends and engaging in a variety of athletic and recreational activities. Located on the University of Chicago campus in the vibrant Hyde Park neighborhood, this state-of-the-art 150,000-square-foot facility combines award-winning architecture with world-class sports and fitness amenities. Designed by renowned architect César Pelli, the center features a striking exterior with a unique roof suspended by cables attached to five masts reaching 100 feet high, creating a visually impressive and modern atmosphere. Inside, guests can enjoy access to the Myers-McLoraine Swimming Pool, a 50-meter by 25-yard aquatic venue ideal for lap swimming or training sessions. The Bernard DelGiorno Fitness Center offers comprehensive workout equipment in a spacious environment, while the multipurpose dance studio and gymnasia provide diverse options for group classes, practice, or casual exercise. Beyond recreation, the center also hosts University of Chicago athletics, including basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and swimming teams, often drawing energetic crowds for competitions in its large 1,658-seat gymnasium. This vibrant hub welcomes not only students and staff but also community members, alumni, and retirees, making it an inclusive destination to connect, stay active, and enjoy a dynamic social scene with friends.
Here's what people think of Gerald Ratner Athletics Center
As of recent, Gerald Ratner Athletics Center holds a 4.6-star rating based on 340 reviews.
Users consistently praise the Gerald Ratner Athletics Center for its exceptional facilities and welcoming environment. Positive reviews highlight the impressive architectural design and the quality of equipment and amenities available, such as the spacious swimming pool and well-maintained gym areas. Visitors often compliment the center’s cleanliness, the variety of exercise spaces, and the community-oriented atmosphere that creates a great vibe for socializing and staying fit. Many appreciate the convenient location within Hyde Park, as well as the availability of parking options. On the downside, some negative feedback touches on occasional crowding during peak hours and limited free parking, which can make visits slightly less convenient. A few users mention that while the center is excellent for University affiliates, being a hub for students and athletes, it can sometimes feel busy or less accessible to casual community users. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the Gerald Ratner Athletics Center’s contribution to campus life and the surrounding community, emphasizing its appeal as a high-quality venue for sports, fitness, and social engagement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Penelope Andersson
Solid spot but kinda hit or miss. Dropped like $15 for a day pass. Gym’s got decent equipment, pool’s nice, but man, it gets packed after 5pm — like, you’re waiting forever for machines. Staff’s chill but not super helpful. Locker rooms could use some love too, feels a bit worn. Good enough if you’re in Hyde Park, but I wouldn’t go outta my way.
Haley Thomas
Great variety of machines! Olympic sized pool yay!
Peter Chen
It's not the biggest gym, but that's to be expected given that it's in Chicago. The space that they have is used very effectively though, and the pool looks huge and well-maintained, although I haven't swam in years. Some of the weight equipment show their age, but even then, everything is really well taken care of, and there are also plenty of newer equipment too. There's a good focus on powerlifting and free weights in the weight room, and the equipment selection shows that. They allow chalk which is fairly uncommon in my experience for school gyms (neither UIC nor UIUC allows chalk for example) and commercial gyms. They have a variety of barbells, including women's bar (35 lbs and 25 mm diameter) and I think even some power bars (45 lb and 29 mm diameter) instead of the standard mixed use barbells (45 lb and 28.5 mm). There are 10 (12?) squat racks (technically 5(6?) two-sided full racks, but the point is that there are 10 or 12 slots with safety bar to squat and such), although there aren't any dedicated bench stations so you'll have to pull a bench over to one of the racks to bench. They have most of the weight machines you'd expect to see. The main critique I have would be that they don't seem to have a hack squat, and all their leg press machines are horizontal leg press, which feel way worse to me than angled leg press. They were doing some maintenance when I was there though, so maybe they had those machines stashed away. Also, while they don't have a hack squat, they do have 2 Smith machines so really, it's just the lack of an angled leg press that somewhat matters. There's a decent cardio selection upstairs, and there are several rooms to play/practice other sports. It would be nice to have some matted areas to stretch and perform mobility routines/yoga, but there are portable mats available.
Anne Sanchez
Received a day pass while visiting the college with my son. The pool is great and the facility was really nice and clean. There was an interesting little museum and hall of Fame when you first walk into the building that was cool to see.
Paul Updike
A good gym just a short walk from the commons.
How to reach Gerald Ratner Athletics Center
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Why Gerald Ratner Athletics Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at the Gerald Ratner Athletics Center with your friends? This facility is a premier destination that blends world-class sports amenities with a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere perfect for social gatherings. Whether you want to bond over shared physical activity, relax by the pool, or just spend a day catching up in an energizing environment, Ratner offers something for everyone. Its spacious design, filled with natural light and exceptional architectural touches, creates a fresh, inviting vibe where groups can connect and have fun together. The variety of both casual and competitive activities ensures that regardless of your group’s interests or fitness levels, you’ll find something engaging to do. Being situated on the historic and beautiful University of Chicago campus adds an extra layer of charm and accessibility. Plus, with a high rating of 4.6 from 340 reviews, many visitors appreciate not only the facilities but the overall experience, making Ratner a reliable and exciting choice for hosting meetups with friends or family in Chicago.
What activities can you enjoy at the Gerald Ratner Athletics Center?
One of Ratner’s standout features is its diversity of activities that cater to different tastes and fitness approaches. For water lovers and those seeking a refreshing group experience, the Myers-McLoraine Swimming Pool offers a 50-meter by 25-yard Olympic-sized space that can accommodate lap swimming, aquatic workouts, or just casual splashing around. It’s a great spot for families or groups wanting to mix fitness and fun. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the Bernard DelGiorno Fitness Center, stocked with cardiovascular machines, selectorized weightlifting equipment, and free weights designed to suit everyone from beginners to advanced athletes. Those interested in dance or movement-based exercise can take advantage of the multipurpose dance studio, often used for yoga, pilates, zumba, and kickboxing classes held regularly. The two gymnasia provide courts for basketball, volleyball, and wrestling, with some gym space dedicated to informal play or practice. The variety means your group can plan a full day of energetic team sports, group exercise classes, or even laid-back movement sessions tailored to all skill levels.
Why is the Gerald Ratner Athletics Center perfect for group meetups?
The design and layout of Ratner make it an ideal place for friends and families to gather because of the spaciousness and flexibility it offers. The facility’s architecture, designed by Cesar Pelli, includes a large open competition gymnasium with seating for 1,658 spectators, which allows groups to watch basketball or volleyball games together, supporting university teams while socializing. For more intimate gatherings, the center features classrooms and meeting rooms, which can be used for group discussions, team strategy planning, or simply hosting social events in a comfortable climate-controlled environment. Ample day lockers and permanent lockers mean visitors don’t need to worry about luggage or personal items during activities, helping keep the experience hassle-free. The welcoming rotunda and plaza create natural meeting points, perfect for pre- or post-activity hangouts. Accessibility to multiple recreational activities in one building means your group can transition from one activity to another seamlessly, making the meetup dynamic and varied.
How does the Gerald Ratner Athletics Center accommodate different skill levels and interests?
One of Ratner’s greatest strengths lies in its inclusive approach. Whether your group contains seasoned athletes, casual fitness fans, or people new to exercise, everyone is welcome and encouraged to participate. The fitness center includes equipment suitable for various levels, and experienced staff often provide guidance to help guests feel comfortable. Group classes such as yoga, pilates, and zumba cater to all skill levels—from absolute beginners to advanced practitioners—creating a supportive and engaging group environment. The swimming pool can be used for competitive swim practice, water aerobics, or leisurely swims, offering flexible participation. The availability of multiple sports courts and open gym times ensures your group can pick activities that match skill levels and interests while allowing for socialization without pressure. This flexibility enhances the feeling of camaraderie and ensures no one feels left out during your meetup.
What makes the Gerald Ratner Athletics Center a unique architectural and cultural venue for gatherings?
The Gerald Ratner Athletics Center is not only a sports facility; it’s a striking architectural landmark with a rich cultural significance. Designed by renowned architect Cesar Pelli, the building’s innovative mast-and-cable roof system creates vast, open interior spaces uninhibited by supporting columns, providing an expansive, airy ambiance perfect for social interaction and group activities. Its architectural style draws inspiration from the Gothic elements seen across the University of Chicago campus, blending tradition and modernity in a stunning, award-winning design. Inside the lobby, visitors can find historic artifacts such as the very first Heisman Trophy, adding a unique cultural touchpoint that can spark conversation and enhance the visitor experience. This blend of elegant design, historical significance, and cutting-edge facilities encourages groups to not only engage in physical activities but also appreciate the environment’s creativity and heritage as part of their visit.
How accessible is the Gerald Ratner Athletics Center for friends and family gatherings?
Location and accessibility are crucial when choosing a meetup spot, and the Gerald Ratner Athletics Center excels in both. Located conveniently on the University of Chicago campus at the southwest corner of Ellis Avenue and 55th Street in Hyde Park, it’s easily reachable by public transportation or car, ensuring your group can come together without hassle. The facility is open to university students, staff, alumni, and local community members, which fosters a warm and diverse atmosphere. Those organizing meetups will find plenty of parking and easy access entrances, including accommodations for people with disabilities. Operating hours are structured to support recreational use during much of the day and evening, making it possible to schedule meetups that fit everyone’s availability. The presence of numerous group-friendly amenities—such as locker rooms, showers, and convenient restrooms—makes it easier to enjoy a full day at the center without worry.
What events and gatherings can the Gerald Ratner Athletics Center support?
Beyond everyday recreational activities, the Ratner Center serves as a venue for larger gatherings and events, adding to its appeal for group meetups. The spacious competition gymnasium can host watch parties for basketball, volleyball, wrestling, or swimming & diving meets, turning a normal visit into a lively shared experience. The center often accommodates university athletic events and regional NCAA competitions, providing an exciting atmosphere for sports fans and casual observers alike. Meeting rooms within the facility can be reserved for group meetings, celebrations, or team-building workshops, supporting both social and corporate purposes. With its multi-functional design, Ratner is adaptable for a variety of events that bring groups together—whether it's a birthday party that includes active fun, a fitness boot camp for friends, or a casual gathering after a game day. This versatility makes it much more than just a gym; it’s a communal hub for meaningful and enjoyable social interaction.
What do visitors say about the Gerald Ratner Athletics Center experience?
With a solid rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 340 reviews, the Gerald Ratner Athletics Center enjoys a strong reputation among its users. Visitors frequently praise the cleanliness of the facility, the quality and variety of equipment, and the friendly atmosphere created by staff and fellow participants. Many appreciate the architectural beauty and natural lighting, which make their visits pleasant and energizing. Reviewers also highlight the center’s ability to accommodate groups comfortably, noting that it works well for both casual gatherings and more structured sports activities. The range of classes and recreational options is highly valued for providing opportunities for skill development and fun across different fitness levels. Overall, the feedback paints Ratner as a dependable and high-quality venue for social and athletic meetups—a place where friends and family can rally, recharge, and create lasting memories together.