When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center
Why Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center, located in Manhattan's Upper West Side at 232 West 60th Street, is a vibrant community hub named after the legendary Olympic swimmer Gertrude Ederle, who was the first woman to swim across the English Channel. The center offers an inviting environment to meet up with friends and engage in a variety of fitness and recreational activities year-round. Highlights of the center include a modern indoor swimming pool with dimensions of 60 by 35 feet, suitable for swimmers of intermediate levels, complemented by free aquatics programs, such as Learn to Swim classes. Beyond swimming, the center features a gymnasium, fitness center, aerobics studio, locker rooms, a youth activity center, and multi-purpose community rooms, making it a versatile venue for socializing, exercise, and community events. The facility is wheelchair accessible, provides onsite restrooms, and offers WiFi access, supporting comfort and connectivity during visits. Its historic building, originally a 1906 bathhouse thoughtfully renovated and expanded, blends heritage with modern amenities. Open from early morning until evening on weekdays and shorter hours on Saturdays, Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center serves as a welcoming spot for group activities, fitness, and relaxation in a friendly, neighborhood-oriented setting.
Here's what people think of Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center
As of recent, Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center holds a 4.3-star rating based on 288 reviews.
Visitors consistently praise Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center for its welcoming atmosphere and well-maintained facilities. Positive reviews emphasize the cleanliness of the pool area, the variety of fitness options, and the helpful staff who foster a community spirit. Many appreciate the center's historical significance combined with modern upgrades, noting that it caters well to diverse age groups and fitness levels. Users also enjoy the free aquatics programs and the convenient location on the Upper West Side, making it accessible for local residents. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers on occasional crowding during peak hours and limited pickleball court availability, as there is only one indoor wood court with no reservation system. A few users have mentioned that extended weekend hours would improve the experience. Overall, the positive remarks outweigh the negatives, depicting Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center as a cherished local resource that balances tradition and contemporary community needs, encouraging residents to stay active and connected.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Big web 45
Came here last week with some of my friends. They r all really cute twinks and as a guy I absolutely love swimming with other guys shirtless. We got here and did my favorite thing which was getting changed in the locker room. I love watching my friends all shirtless hot guys get changed. We went swimming in the pool and had a hell of a great time . We saw the pool drains in the deep end and got really nervous and scared. They were CREEPY! I swore they were gonna suck us down into the backrooms. Yea we stayed away from them because they were soooky . The staff here was really friendly and accepting of us super gay slay queens. We will most definitely be returning here as the pool water was warm and the facility was super clean . Below is pics of the creepy drains as well as me and the boys hanging out shirtless together.
James Reed
Spring-fed water stays refreshingly cool all summer. Lifeguards actually enforce rules while keeping it friendly. The sandy entry is perfect for kids, while lap swimmers get dedicated morning hours. Clean changing rooms with private showers.
Dan C (danny)
A complete gym with swimming pool, workout center, fitness rooms, basketball court for those that don’t want to spend a fortune at a competitor for gym basics. Annual membership fees are close to what you would pay for one month at a leading high end gym in the area. With the price will definitely be sacrifices to amenities such as no towels and not as much gym equipment so there might be a wait to use the machines.
Chriz 1
A good re recreation center ,amazing and friendly staff , when it comes to the weight room,it’s very small and not a lot of machines ,It gets packed around 3-4 so sometimes you have to wait,other then that it gets a 4/5
Piper Smith
Most of the staff at this recreation center are very friendly, and the pricing is excellent for people under 24. I usually come here to swim, and it’s generally a good experience. However, there is one female employee in the women’s locker room who is unbelievably rude—easily the rudest person I’ve encountered in the state. She has scolded me twice in an unrelenting and aggressive manner, glaring at me the entire time. Both times, she even mentioned that cleaning the locker room isn’t her job. If that’s how she feels, maybe she should find a job she’s more willing to do. Her attitude completely ruined what should have been an enjoyable swimming experience.
How to reach Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center
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Why Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center with your friends? This venerable venue, located on Manhattan’s vibrant Upper West Side, is more than just a neighborhood gym; it’s a historic community hub dedicated to active fun and fitness for all ages. Named after the legendary New York native and first woman to swim the English Channel, Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center offers an inviting, affordable space where groups can gather, exercise, socialize, and enjoy a range of activities under one roof. Its rich history, combined with modern amenities, creates an atmosphere that is both inspiring and practical for meetups with friends or family. Whether your group shares a passion for swimming, basketball, or dance, or just wants a welcoming place for some quality workout time, this center caters to varied interests. With a yearly membership fee that’s modest compared to many city gyms, this center provides a cost-effective way to stay healthy and connect with others. This blend of accessibility, history, and diversity in programming makes it an ideal rally point for groups looking to make fitness fun, social, and memorable.
What activities can you enjoy at Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center? The center’s amenities cover a broad spectrum of recreational and fitness pursuits designed to accommodate different preferences and skill levels. Anchoring the facility is its beautifully maintained swimming pool, housed within a historic 1906 Georgian-style bathhouse, where members can swim laps, take lessons, or simply cool off. Beyond the pool, there is a gymnasium featuring an indoor wood court equipped for basketball and pickleball — perfect for those who want a spirited game with friends. For fitness enthusiasts, the center has a well-equipped workout area with a variety of machines suited for both cardio and strength training, including dumbbells and cross-training equipment, though it lacks barbells. This diverse setup promotes balanced workouts, from muscle-building to fat-burning exercises. The recreation center also boasts an aerobics studio and dance spaces suitable for group classes, rehearsals, or social dancing, creating opportunities to engage in rhythm-based workouts and artistic expression. There are also specialized youth activity zones and multi-purpose community rooms that can host events, meetings, or creative gatherings, making it an all-round venue for active groups.
Why is the Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center perfect for a group meetup? Gathering with friends or family here means choosing a space that balances social opportunities with physical wellness in a welcoming, community-focused environment. The center’s combination of facilities allows groups to customize their visit: some may dive into swimming together, others challenge each other in basketball or pickleball, and some might join group fitness classes to motivate one another. Unlike typical gyms, the center’s community rooms and youth activity spaces offer comforts and versatility for socializing beyond exercise — ideal for celebrations, group meetings, or recreational programs. The historic charm of the building coupled with its modern upgrades provides an inspiring backdrop, making hangouts feel special without overwhelming expense. Moreover, the center’s affordable membership and location in the heart of Manhattan make it accessible for people who want an easy, convenient place to gather regularly. Whether your group is composed of casual fitness fans or more competitive athletes, the inclusive policies and variety of activities encourage cohesive, fun, and healthy time spent together. Its amenities foster not only physical fitness but also community spirit and lasting memories.
What is the history and unique atmosphere of the Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center? The center is steeped in a fascinating heritage dating back to 1906 when it originally functioned as a public bathhouse designed to promote hygiene among local residents. Renamed in honor of Gertrude Ederle, who famously swam the English Channel in 1926, the center has evolved into a modern, multipurpose recreation facility. The preservation and renovation of its classic Georgian limestone exterior, complete with whimsical terra cotta sea creatures, retain its historic charm while functioning as a lively, contemporary gathering spot. This rich narrative adds a unique character and pride to the facility, connecting patrons to the legacy of a pioneering athlete and the city's tradition of community wellness. Members often feel this blend of old and new inspires them to push their limits and celebrate achievements together. The cultural significance paired with top-tier modern fitness offerings fosters a warm, motivating environment for group activities and personal goals alike.
How accessible and affordable is the Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center for groups? The recreation center offers one of the best value propositions on the Upper West Side by providing comprehensive access for just about $25 a year in membership, making it highly affordable compared with commercial gyms or private clubs. Its location in a bustling, transit-friendly neighborhood ensures easy access by subway, bus, or foot, encouraging frequent group visits without hassle. While reservations for activities like pickleball are not necessary, the center’s welcoming policy makes spontaneous meetups simple and stress-free. The facility’s variety of programs — some free or low cost — also cater to diverse economic backgrounds and age groups, extending inclusivity for families and friends across generations. With locker rooms, comfortable community spaces, and clean, well-maintained equipment and courts, the center blends convenience, safety, and comfort with affordability. This accessibility empowers broader groups to stay active and connected without financial strain.
What special programs or upcoming activities make Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center stand out? In addition to permanent facilities, the center offers an expanding schedule of innovative fitness and recreational programs that can engage groups in fresh ways. For example, it has been developing a “Learn to Kayak” program inside the indoor pool, which introduces members of all ages to kayaking skills in a controlled environment — a unique offering rarely found in a city gym. The aerobics and dance studios regularly host classes ranging from traditional aerobics to dance rehearsals, sometimes in collaboration with local arts organizations and Broadway companies, further enriching the cultural dimension of your group’s visit. These programs not only promote physical health but also provide chances for members to connect over shared learning and artistic expression. The center’s commitment to evolving its offerings means that groups can look forward to new challenges and experiences on each visit, keeping their meetups dynamic and engaging.
In summary, the Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center is a premier meeting place for groups seeking a blend of history, modern fitness amenities, affordability, and community spirit. Whether your friends want to splash in the pool, shoot hoops, try a dance class, or simply relax in a friendly environment, this center offers everything needed to forge stronger bonds while staying active. Its combination of activities, welcoming atmosphere, and reasonable cost make it an unbeatable choice for group outings in the heart of New York City.