When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Hollywood YMCA
Why Hollywood YMCA is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hollywood YMCA, located at 1553 N Schrader Blvd in Hollywood, California, offers an inviting and inclusive environment, making it an excellent place for friends to meet, exercise, and engage in community activities. With a comprehensive range of wellness programs and fitness facilities, the YMCA fosters a healthy lifestyle and social connections among its members. The center is managed by dedicated staff focused on creating a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging people from diverse backgrounds to connect. Highlights of the location include access to gym facilities, group exercise programs, and community events that provide ample opportunities for social interaction and physical wellbeing. The YMCA's commitment to health, wellness, and community makes it a natural gathering spot for individuals and groups seeking a positive and supportive space to connect and stay active.
Here's what people think of Hollywood YMCA
As of recent, Hollywood YMCA holds a 4.2-star rating based on 133 reviews.
Overall, Hollywood YMCA holds a solid rating of 4.2 based on 133 reviews, reflecting a generally positive member experience. Positive reviews frequently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, clean and well-maintained facilities, and the variety of available programs that cater to different fitness levels and interests. Many reviewers appreciate the sense of community fostered by the YMCA and the convenient location in Hollywood. On the other hand, some negative feedback revolves around occasional issues such as overcrowding during peak hours, limited parking availability, and certain equipment maintenance delays. A few users expressed a desire for extended operational hours or more diverse class offerings. Despite these critiques, the majority of members find the facility's atmosphere and services meet or exceed expectations. In conclusion, the Hollywood YMCA is well-regarded as a community-centered fitness hub, though like many busy urban facilities, it faces some typical challenges related to capacity and amenities.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Katherine Cowell
I’ve been a fan of this place since 2014, and when Covid hit they closed it and remodeled/reorganized it. Everything they did is garbage, and if anyone is donating to them anymore, those donations appear to be wasted. It’s in a beautiful historic building from the 1900s, and they’re using the best and biggest workout room with historic ceilings as a gosh darn storage room. Storage room!!!!! For dusty chairs and junk! How is that helping or serving the community? The person running this place is a scammer! I was always proud to support the YMCA and particularly this location, but please YMCA management, look into the person in charge of this location and fire them! It makes me disappointed and honestly angry to see what this location has become. Oh, and the kids center? Just a packed up room that’s only open on Saturday mornings? Come on. A big fancy room for kids and parents with no kids in it???? With no programs going on???? What a scam!!!!! Fire Merton Harris. Fire him!!!
Evan
A fantastic place to work out. Plenty of equipment, clean facilities, friendly (and competent) staff, two full basketball courts, and a pool. It's never crowded, except occasionally on weekends when youth leagues play there. There's not much more you can ask for. You won't find a better membership price in the area, but using their parking garage costs $1. That may not seem like much, but if you go 4/5 times a week, it can start to add up. Highly recommend!
Another One
I almost don’t want to leave a review so the secret doesn’t get out 😂 but this is such a great family gym. Everything is new and renovated, the staff are lovely, it’s always very quiet. We’ve also been taking our toddler to swimming lessons here for close to a year now (Linda the swim instructor is very lovely) and our toddler loves it plus the classes are small and not overcrowded. Highly recommend.
O.
I love this place but the opening hours of the lap pool are limited only to 2 hours in the morning or evening :( So it’s useless for me:(
Zen Riley23
I always look forward to coming here when I am traveling my son. The family shower rooms are very accommodating. They are spacious and clean. The water extractor has been inoperable for quite some time. The staff is very welcoming and professional.
How to reach Hollywood YMCA
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Why Hollywood YMCA may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Hollywood YMCA with your friends?
Choosing the Hollywood YMCA as a gathering spot with your friends offers much more than a typical meetup venue; it promises a vibrant, active, and socially enriching experience. This iconic community-focused nonprofit center, established well over a century ago, is embedded in the heart of Hollywood and stands as a beacon for fitness, wellness, and togetherness. With a solid rating of 4.2 based on 133 reviews, it’s clear that members and visitors appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and versatile facilities that encourage both relaxation and active bonding. The expansive hours of operation—running from early morning to late evening on most weekdays—allow for great flexibility in planning your meetup, whether it’s a morning workout session, an afternoon swim, or an evening wellness class. Beyond the extensive amenities, the location is situated amidst a lively neighborhood with easy access to eateries and entertainment options, making it convenient to extend your gathering beyond just the YMCA walls. Whether you want to engage in group fitness, social sports, or simply relax by the pool with friends, the Hollywood YMCA balances community spirit, quality facilities, and accessibility to ensure a memorable meetup experience.
What activities does Hollywood YMCA offer for groups?
Hollywood YMCA caters to a wide array of interests and fitness levels with diverse programs and amenities designed for groups and individuals alike. One of the key draws is its well-maintained gym, equipped for various workouts that friends can enjoy together—whether it’s lifting weights, cardio exercises, or participating in dynamic group training sessions. The facility also boasts a spacious pool, ideal for swimming laps, friendly competitions, or aquatic exercise classes, all promoting health while fostering camaraderie. For those who prefer land-based activities, the YMCA often hosts group fitness classes such as yoga, spinning, and Zumba, providing energetic environments where friends can bond while improving their fitness. Additionally, there is a Child Activity Center, which makes it an excellent choice for family meetups, allowing parents to engage in activities while children are nurtured in a safe, stimulating setting. The Hollywood YMCA’s diverse program offerings encourage attendees to challenge themselves together and create shared memories, reinforcing relationships in a positive, healthy atmosphere.
Why is Hollywood YMCA perfect for a group meetup?
The Hollywood YMCA’s appeal as a venue for group meetups is rooted in its community-centric mission and the versatile facilities it offers. Its location at 1553 Schrader Boulevard places it in a bustling, culturally rich area near notable landmarks and eateries, giving groups plenty of options to extend their outing before or after their time at the YMCA. Moreover, the extended hours—from as early as 5:00 or 7:00 am to as late as 10:00 or 11:00 pm during weekdays—offer unmatched scheduling flexibility, accommodating diverse group routines and preferences. This is complemented by the YMCA’s open, inclusive environment that warmly welcomes members from all backgrounds, making it easy for groups to feel comfortable and engaged. The venue’s amenities, such as the gym, pool, and child care services, mean it can cater to groups of varying ages and interests simultaneously, ensuring everyone in your party finds something enjoyable to do. The center’s focus on building community ensures that group meetups here are not only fun but also meaningful, supporting social bonds through shared health and wellness activities.
What nearby attractions complement a visit to Hollywood YMCA?
When you’re planning a group outing to the Hollywood YMCA, one of the great benefits is its proximity to a variety of nearby attractions that can complement your visit and enrich your overall experience. Just a short walk away, there are popular dining options like the Desert 5 Spot, KA'TEEN, and Mother Wolf, which offer opportunities to enjoy delicious meals and refreshments with your friends before or after your YMCA activities. For groups interested in cultural experiences, the nearby Los Angeles Contemporary Exhibitions (LACE) provides a chance to explore contemporary art, stimulating engaging discussions outside the gym environment. If your group enjoys shopping or browsing unique items, Hollywood Toys & Costumes and Larry Edmunds Bookshop are excellent picks, offering eclectic and nostalgic shopping adventures. Entertainment venues like the Hollywood Athletic Club and Nya Studios also provide additional active and social options, making this YMCA location a versatile hub for a day full of varied group activities. This proximity to diverse dining, shopping, and cultural sites makes Hollywood YMCA not only a fitness destination but a central part of a broader enjoyable outing.
How accessible and convenient is Hollywood YMCA for group meetups?
Accessibility and convenience are crucial when choosing a place to meet up with friends or family, and Hollywood YMCA excels in both areas. Located in the heart of Hollywood, its address at 1553 Schrader Boulevard is easily reachable via major roads and public transportation, making it a practical choice for members coming from different parts of the city. The operating hours are generous—with most days opening as early as 5:00 or 7:00 am and closing as late as 10:00 or 11:00 pm—ensuring that you can arrange meetups that fit various schedules, whether it’s a weekend afternoon or a late weekday evening. The YMCA also provides essential amenities such as locker rooms and a child activity center, which improve comfort and convenience, especially for families or groups with young children. Additionally, the surrounding neighborhood features ample dining and entertainment options within walking distance, allowing for seamless transitions from exercise and wellness activities at the YMCA to socializing over a meal. This combination of location, flexible hours, and auxiliary services guarantees a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for groups looking to rally in Hollywood.
What community values and atmosphere does Hollywood YMCA foster?
The Hollywood YMCA is more than just a fitness center; it is a community hub with deep roots and a mission focused on inclusiveness, health, and social support. Established in 1844, the organization has long prioritized creating environments where people from all walks of life feel welcome and inspired to improve their overall well-being. The atmosphere at the Hollywood YMCA reflects these core values through a friendly, supportive culture that encourages participation, connection, and mutual respect. Members often highlight the positive social vibes fostered by staff and fellow patrons alike, which can make a group meetup both uplifting and motivating. Programs and services are designed not only to promote physical fitness but also mental and social wellness, which is essential when gathering with friends or family for an enriching experience. This commitment to community wellness means that when you meet at Hollywood YMCA, you’re engaging in more than just recreational activities—you’re participating in a longstanding tradition of collective empowerment and support.
How does Hollywood YMCA support families and kids during group gatherings?
Families looking to meet at a venue that supports the needs of both adults and children will find Hollywood YMCA particularly accommodating. The facility includes a Child Activity Center where young children are cared for and engaged in developmentally appropriate activities, allowing parents and older family members to participate in fitness classes, swim laps, or socialize without concern for childcare logistics. This feature is invaluable for family meetups because it creates a safe, stimulating environment that keeps children entertained and enriched while adults relax or pursue wellness goals. The YMCA’s schedule of classes and swim times are diverse enough to engage family members of all ages, making it a universal gathering place for multi-generational groups. Offering programs tailored to children, teens, and adults alike ensures that everyone in the family is included, whether they are beginners or fitness enthusiasts. This inclusivity transforms the Hollywood YMCA into a go-to location for families who want a stress-free, fun, and health-promoting environment for their meetups.
What makes Hollywood YMCA’s facilities stand out for group activities?
The Hollywood YMCA is equipped with top-notch facilities that support a broad range of group activities, making it an ideal venue for friends and families looking to engage in collective wellness and fun. The gym offers ample space and equipment for both individual workouts and group exercises, often hosting fitness classes that accommodate multiple participants simultaneously, fostering social interaction through shared effort and encouragement. The swimming pool is another standout feature, with size and accessibility that welcome swimmers of all skill levels to enjoy laps, water aerobics, or casual play. Notably, the presence of a dedicated Child Activity Center further distinguishes this YMCA from others, providing a family-friendly environment that caters to diverse group needs. Clean, well-maintained locker rooms and other supportive amenities enhance overall comfort, ensuring smooth, efficient transitions between activities. The combination of physical space, equipment variety, and thoughtful accommodations reflects the YMCA’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, enjoyable environment well suited for group gatherings focusing on health, wellness, and community connection.
Why do people rate Hollywood YMCA highly?
With a 4.2-star rating based on 133 reviews, Hollywood YMCA earns its reputation through consistent delivery of quality services, attentive staff, and strong community engagement. Members frequently commend the friendly atmosphere, helpful employees, and the availability of varied programs that meet different needs and preferences. The cleanliness and upkeep of the facilities, including the gym and pool, receive positive feedback, demonstrating the dedication to providing a safe, welcoming environment. Additionally, patrons appreciate the YMCA’s role as a community hub, where social and health goals come together, creating more than just a workout space but also a place to connect and support one another. The versatility of available classes and amenities, alongside convenient scheduling, resonates well with users who want reliable and enjoyable fitness and social experiences. These factors collectively contribute to the group's positive overall impression and continued return to the center.
By choosing Hollywood YMCA for your next group meetup, you embrace a venue that combines fitness, wellness, and social opportunities within a caring community setting. Its comprehensive amenities, convenient location, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a uniquely attractive destination, whether you're rallying for a workout, an aquatic session, or simply spending quality time together in a supportive environment.