When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center
Why I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center, located in Salt Lake City, Utah, is a cherished community hub that has served as a welcoming place for over 90 years. Founded in 1925, the JCC offers an inclusive environment that embraces people of all ages, faiths, and family structures. This center functions not only as a recreational facility but also as a social and cultural gathering spot, which makes it an excellent place to meet up with friends and family. Highlights include its full-service amenities such as indoor and outdoor pools, a gymnasium, a health and fitness center, group fitness studios, running track, and spa. The center also provides programs like a preschool, summer camps, and various receptions and events, making it suitable for diverse interests and age groups. Its historical transformation from a modest "mom-and-pop" style center to a comprehensive facility in 2001, when it moved into a former country club, speaks to its growth in meeting community needs. The JCC promotes strengthening minds, bodies, and spirits while fostering peace and unity among all who visit. The center's leadership and community-centric vision ensure it remains a vibrant, friendly place perfect for social interaction and wholesome activities.
Here's what people think of I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center
As of recent, I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center holds a 4.4-star rating based on 52 reviews.
User reviews of the I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center reflect a generally positive experience with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Reviewers commonly appreciate the fun environment, especially in roles like summer camp counseling and preschool teaching, highlighting enjoyable interactions with coworkers and children. Users note benefits such as employee discounts on events and a rich introduction to Jewish culture and community life. On the positive side, many mention the center’s updated classrooms, new toys, and well-maintained facilities, as well as a supportive work environment from some levels of administration. However, there are notable criticisms in several reviews concerning management, which some describe as unsupportive or rough. Staff report challenges like short breaks, difficult communication with administration due to their busy schedules, and a desire for better pay reflecting their time worked. A few find the commute inconvenient. Despite these issues, the community atmosphere and programming quality receive praise. Overall, reviews convey a place of strong communal spirit and valuable cultural experience, tempered by some internal staffing challenges, suggesting ongoing opportunities for organizational improvement and stronger administrative support.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Oscar Quintanar
Love this place, I mainly come to hit a workout at their gym. Been coming for 2 years. They have a lot of great amenities and great staff. What stops it from 5 stars is the hours. I work pretty late and have to race there to get a workout in before 9. The summer heat can also be brutal in the gym, they try and mitigate it with fans but it only helps a little. but overall great facility, good gym, good staff, would recommend to others.
Ryan Beck
The JCC (and particularly the early childhood center) is one of the best things in my family’s life at the moment. Staff genuinely love my kids. Remember their names. And go out of their way to nurture and educate. Could not recommend it more highly.
Jill Adler Ski Play Live Publishing
Everything about this place has gone downhill. Does no one clean the fitness studios, the gyms or the lockers? I watched a guy in my aerobics class drip sweat globs all over the floor and mat, then walk away. Gross. I was the last person out and not a single person came into clean. The same with the weightroom and the pickleball court- no one wipes anything down. The only attendants in the place are a couple of nice college kids at the front desk who smile and wave then go back to their screens. You walk around the space and although there are plenty of members, it feels vacant and neglected. Not to mention their sporadic fitness classes. With no pool September-May, can you really justify $95-175/mo for two strength classes in the morning and one at 6p, and no evening classes at all Thursday-Sunday?? They may claim a certain number of "fitness" classes but they're either a) an additional cost like pilates or b)water 'moves', yoga or 6a spin. Not to mention that the JCC classes are often taught by non-certified, out of shape U students who seem to have gotten their routines from YouTube. To be clear, I'm not nor have I ever cared about a person's size. I'm just not up for taking a fitness class from someone who isn't fit. Would you see a dermatologist with bad skin? The JCC management is more interested in collecting your money than providing an exceptional, sanitary experience. They act like they are doing you a favor instead of the other way around. Be careful you don't complain. They will cancel your membership and keep your money if you have prepaid. "We reserve the right to terminate your membership for any reason at our discretion". Best to find an actual gym that respects its members.
**
My wife works here and it's the sweetest place to come. It's also so incredibly efficient in supplying what we need to stay active and a personnel that have a WIDE birth of knowledge to help us thrive at any age. A great coffee shop, and a great place to buy some healthy food.
Mabel Flores-Dahl
My husband and I love working out here. The cardio and weight rooms have tons of natural light and everything is clean and well maintained. We also enjoy the indoor basketball courts and fitness classes. All of the instructors are so nice and welcoming.
How to reach I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center
None
Website: None
Why I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at the I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center with your friends? This vibrant community hub presents an ideal gathering spot for groups looking to connect, celebrate, and engage in enriching activities together. Nestled in Salt Lake City, the center boasts a welcoming atmosphere where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together in a safe, warm environment. Whether your group seeks active recreation, creative stimulation, or cultural enrichment, the JCC provides the perfect backdrop. Friends can enjoy a range of indoor and outdoor spaces tailored for socializing and recreation, while also participating in thoughtfully designed programs that foster connection and well-being. The recent $8 million renovation has transformed the facility into a bright, modern space featuring stunning views, ample activity areas, and a variety of amenities, making it not only functional but inspiring. Beyond just a venue, it’s a place that cultivates community spirit and shared experience, turning any meetup into an occasion worth remembering.
What activities are available at the I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center that make it perfect for group meetups? The center offers a wealth of opportunities for all ages, making it a dynamic environment for friends and family to enjoy together. For those interested in physical activity, there’s a fully equipped fitness center relocated upstairs with panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley, alongside group fitness studios offering classes like Pilates and Pickleball. Children and youth can dive into a lively roster of programs including swim lessons, swim team participation, after-school activities, and summer camp experiences. The recent addition of the Jerry J. Kaufman Family Activity Center brings a 9,200-square-foot all-weather space designed specifically for children and teens, featuring a multi-purpose room with a stage, arts and crafts room, teen lounge, and a galley kitchen. This smart mix of facilities encourages creativity, teamwork, and healthy play, giving groups ample ways to bond.
How does the I.J. & Jeanné Wagner JCC foster a welcoming environment and community spirit? The center is deeply committed to inclusivity and community outreach, reflecting in its programs and support initiatives. One notable aspect is the JCC Scholarship Fund, which grants financial assistance to families, ensuring that children can attend summer camps, preschool, and afterschool programs regardless of economic barriers. Additionally, the JCC extends free temporary memberships to families with loved ones receiving medical treatment locally, emphasizing care beyond just recreation. The center also welcomes refugee children from diverse countries, offering full scholarships to foster inclusion and support. Such initiatives highlight the JCC’s broader mission to build a compassionate and connected community, making it a place where friendships deepen and newcomers feel embraced.
What makes the physical design and amenities at the JCC stand out for hosting meetups? A recent, comprehensive renovation dramatically enhanced the center’s infrastructure to accommodate diverse group needs. The fitness center now resides in a bright space upstairs that is visually open and filled with natural light, inspiring wellness activities with a serene mountain and valley vista. The Jerry J. Kaufman Family Activity Center is especially notable, providing flexible indoor spaces that support a range of uses such as concerts, plays, lectures, and performances. Outdoors, a large plaza area invites casual sports like basketball, four square, and Gaga ball, while an adjacent turf area offers lawn chairs and a friendship circle – ideal for relaxed socializing or camp-style ceremonies. These thoughtfully designed spaces blend utility with comfort, ensuring groups can transition smoothly between active and quiet moments, making any gathering both spirited and comfortable.
What cultural and educational experiences does the Wagner JCC offer for groups to enjoy together? Beyond recreational amenities, the center is a vibrant cultural hub fostering Jewish heritage and broader community enrichment. Events such as community Passover Seders invite families and friends to share meaningful traditions in an open, friendly setting. The center regularly hosts art exhibitions, lectures, festivals, and concerts, providing cultural touchpoints that deepen understanding and connection. Youth programming also includes explorations of Israeli culture, arts and crafts, music, and performance opportunities such as lip sync shows and plays. These offerings create a rich tapestry of experiences where groups can engage intellectually and creatively while enjoying each other’s company. For those seeking a meetup that combines fun with cultural depth, the JCC’s programming calendar ensures there is always something inspiring on the horizon.
Why is the I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center ideal for families and multi-generational gatherings? The center’s extensive childcare and youth programs make it exceptionally family-friendly, supporting parents and caregivers with trustworthy, enriching options. From high-quality early childhood education to after-school and summer camp programs, the JCC provides engaging environments where kids can learn, socialize, and develop new skills. Meanwhile, adults can benefit from fitness classes, wellness programs, and community events designed to appeal across generations. Multi-use spaces like the Activity Center and friendship circle encourage interaction and shared moments between all ages, fostering family bonds and community cohesion. This holistic approach ensures that whether your meetup is a casual family afternoon or a special celebration spanning multiple generations, everyone will find value and joy within the center’s walls.
How does the JCC accommodate groups for special events or celebrations? The facility is designed not only for everyday programming but also for memorable gatherings and private functions. Spaces such as the multi-purpose room with a stage and galley kitchen enable groups to host performances, workshops, or meals in a versatile setting. Outdoor areas with plaza and turf spaces can be tailored for sports tournaments, picnics, or festival-style celebrations, accommodating a range of group sizes comfortably. The center staff actively supports event planning, ensuring logistical details align with client needs. For groups looking to create unique and meaningful events surrounded by community energy and excellent amenities, the I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center offers a streamlined and welcoming experience.
What kind of group fitness and wellness programs can attendees enjoy at the center? The JCC takes a comprehensive approach to health, offering a wide variety of fitness classes that cater to different interests and levels. Popular classes include Pilates, group fitness sessions, and the increasingly trendy sport of Pickleball, which is great for friendly competition and social interaction. The newly relocated fitness center provides state-of-the-art equipment in a spacious, naturally lit environment with inspiring views, promoting motivation and wellbeing. Group classes foster camaraderie as participants encourage one another in a shared pursuit of physical health. For groups wanting to incorporate wellness into their meetups — whether through an energizing workout or a relaxing class — the center is well-equipped to meet diverse fitness goals.
What makes the JCC’s youth programs stand out for children and teens? The JCC prides itself on delivering youth programming that combines education, culture, and fun. Beyond swimming lessons and swim teams, youth camp experiences include hiking, arts and crafts, singing, and stage performances. The Activity Center’s spaces are dedicated to kids and teens, providing a safe and inspiring environment where young people can express themselves and develop friendships. Programs also emphasize cultural education, including learning about Israeli culture. This holistic approach nurtures children’s creativity, confidence, and sense of community, giving groups of families or friends with children an enriching place to gather that goes far beyond typical recreation.
Why is the I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center a pillar of support within the Salt Lake City community? The center’s commitment to community goes beyond programming into philanthropy and outreach. By providing scholarships to low-income families and refugee children, they open doors for many who might otherwise lack access to quality childcare and summer camps. Hosting temporary memberships for families visiting for medical treatment demonstrates the center’s compassion and responsiveness to community needs. These efforts fundamentally strengthen social ties and make the JCC a trusted resource and a beacon of hope in challenging times. When groups meet here, they are part of a larger mission that promotes connection, support, and wellbeing across diverse populations.
For those seeking a venue that combines active fun, cultural richness, family friendliness, and community spirit, the I.J. & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center stands out as an outstanding choice. Its thoughtful amenities, varied programs, and deep community roots create an environment that invites groups to come together, enjoy meaningful experiences, and build lasting memories. Whether you're planning a day out with friends, a family gathering, or a special event, the JCC offers a welcoming space where everyone can feel at home and engaged.