When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
McBurney YMCA
Why McBurney YMCA is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
McBurney YMCA, located at 125 W 14th St in New York City, is a longstanding and iconic community hub that has been serving residents for over 170 years. Founded originally in 1869, it has evolved into a modern health and fitness center while preserving its rich historical roots tied to the YMCA movement. The facility is known for its broad range of programs suited for individuals and groups, making it an ideal meeting place for friends looking to engage in wellness activities as well as social events. Visitors can enjoy access to extensive fitness amenities, including swimming pools, running tracks, and diverse group exercise classes. Its historical building once housed a marble-lined swimming pool and corn running track, reflecting its longstanding commitment to health and recreation. Beyond fitness, McBurney YMCA has been an important site for community gatherings and social justice initiatives, such as hosting Urban League meetings during the civil rights era. The welcoming environment, combined with its central location in Chelsea, makes it a fantastic destination for social meetups, health workshops, and community involvement. Whether one is drawn by the fitness offerings or the cultural heritage embedded in the YMCA’s legacy, McBurney YMCA offers an enriching space to connect with others and foster wellness.
Here's what people think of McBurney YMCA
As of recent, McBurney YMCA holds a 4.1-star rating based on 156 reviews.
Reviewers generally give McBurney YMCA a positive rating of 4.1 out of 5, reflecting a satisfied membership base with 156 reviews contributing to this score. Many users appreciate the breadth of health and fitness facilities available, praising the variety of exercise classes, well-maintained swimming pools, and friendly staff who create an inviting atmosphere. The community-focused programming and opportunities for social engagement also receive commendation, with several reviewers highlighting the YMCA’s role as a welcoming place that caters to diverse fitness levels and age groups. On the positive side, patrons often note the historical significance of the building, which adds unique character to the membership experience. However, some negative feedback points to occasional issues such as crowded facilities during peak hours, limited parking options, or frustrations related to customer service response times. The Better Business Bureau notes a low accreditation rating primarily due to unresolved complaints, indicating areas where administrative responsiveness could improve. Despite these concerns, the majority of reviews converge on the YMCA’s valuable contribution to personal health and community spirit. In conclusion, McBurney YMCA stands as a respected institution combining history, health, and social connection, with strong overall member satisfaction tempered by opportunities to enhance operational aspects.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dianne Ritchey
I like it. I especially like the pool. The water aerobics classes are super fun! I wish there were more evening classes after work. They used to have so many more classes. Now there are a lot during the day when people are away at work but not much choice for after work. I also wish they still had towels like before the pandemic! It’s such a pain to fill half my bag just with the towel. Otherwise I could do exercise and swimming, but because of the towel I can only carry things for one activity.
World Vlogs
Dirty Gym, Incompetent Staff, Avoid McBurney YMCA! This gym is terrible, the Administrative staff are very unprofessional, and the gym is not clean! Homeless people slept in the lounge area during the summer! There are better gyms, with better hours, professional staff, kids vomiting in the pool, lifeguards that know how to behave professionally with members. McBurney YMCA has gone downhill, but feel justified in raising their rates for a dirty, unsanitary gym! This used to be a nice gym, how the health department allow this gym to operate with a dirty pool, unsanitary showers, locker room with hair on the floor is astonishing!
Mark Newphone
You can get yourself clean . You can have a good meal. You can do whatever you feel. It's fun to stay at the YMCA
M H
If they didn’t close at absurdly early times (5pm on weekends), I could look past the homeless people sleeping in the community areas. But they charge around $130/month for an adult. They should have their PRE-COVID hours available to us. Equinox is around the same price, and they have normal hours and nicer facilities.
Janelle Lawrence
I would not support this Y, I work at a high school that brings students here and the service and care for customers, youth, and people are terrible. Try a different Y institution, maybe that will feel more communal and neighborhood friendly. Added that they have the nerve to have a Black Lives Matter sign up but when I spoke to the people in management there is no care/respect for the racial profiling and mistreatment I experienced by the front desk woman on thursdays.
How to reach McBurney YMCA
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Why McBurney YMCA may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at McBurney YMCA with your friends? Because it’s an exceptional hub where fitness, fun, and community converge, making it an ideal gathering spot for friends seeking an active and engaging meetup. Located in a vibrant area that blends the charm of Greenwich Village and Chelsea, McBurney YMCA offers a welcoming space with state-of-the-art facilities designed to accommodate groups of all sizes and interests. With a solid 4.1-star rating from over 150 reviews, it has proven itself as a trusted venue where friends can enjoy exercise, recreation, and socialization all under one roof. The YMCA’s community-driven philosophy ensures a warm and inclusive atmosphere, making it easy for groups to connect, participate in diverse activities, and create memorable experiences together. Whether your group is into sports, fitness classes, swimming, or simply wants to relax and unwind after some physical activity, McBurney YMCA presents the perfect balance of amenities and ambiance to satisfy everyone’s preferences. This combination of convenience, variety, and community spirit makes McBurney YMCA not just a spot to work out but the perfect backdrop for meaningful get-togethers with friends.
What activities are available at McBurney YMCA for groups to enjoy? The McBurney YMCA boasts a wide array of activities designed to cater to diverse tastes and age groups, ensuring everyone in your circle finds something exciting to do. The gym features state-of-the-art exercise equipment perfect for strength training, cardio workouts, and overall fitness improvement. Beyond solo workouts, the YMCA offers numerous group fitness classes such as yoga, Pilates, dance, and high-intensity interval training, encouraging friends to sweat, stretch, and motivate each other in a supportive group environment. Aquatics is a major highlight, with a swimming pool available for lessons, laps, or casual swims—ideal for both beginners and experienced swimmers. Recreational sports such as basketball, volleyball, and racquet sports provide dynamic and competitive options for groups looking to engage in friendly matches and team building. Furthermore, McBurney YMCA offers youth and family programs, making it an excellent pick for family gatherings or meetups involving children, with activities designed to entertain and educate. These varied opportunities mean friends can tailor their visit to their collective interests, whether it leans toward vigorous activity, skill development, or relaxed recreation.
Why is McBurney YMCA perfect for hosting group meetups? McBurney YMCA’s welcoming community ethos, coupled with its versatile spaces and comprehensive activity offerings, makes it an unbeatable choice for group meetups. The facility provides ample room and scheduling flexibility, allowing groups to participate together comfortably without feeling crowded or rushed. Its modern, accessible design ensures that all friends, regardless of fitness level or mobility, can engage and enjoy their time together. Essential amenities like locker rooms, showers, and lounge areas enhance the convenience for longer meetups or multi-activity days. The YMCA’s supportive staff regularly deliver high-quality customer service, assisting with event organization, program recommendations, and facilitating group needs to make meetups seamless and enjoyable. Beyond physical activities, McBurney YMCA fosters a strong sense of community through leadership and social programs, which groups can tap into to deepen bonds or learn new skills together. The location itself, nestled in a bustling neighborhood rich with dining and entertainment options, also means groups can easily extend their meetups beyond the YMCA for meals or social outings. Together, these features create a dynamic environment where friends and families can mix fitness, fun, and socializing effortlessly.
How accessible and convenient is McBurney YMCA for group visits? Accessibility and convenience are core strengths of McBurney YMCA for any group planning a get-together. Situated in a central locale in New York City’s Greenwich Village/Chelsea area, it is easily reachable by multiple forms of public transportation, including buses and the subway, making it ideal for friends coming from different parts of the city. The facility is designed with full accessibility in mind, ensuring that individuals with disabilities or special needs can comfortably participate, which is particularly important for diverse friend groups. Operating extensive hours throughout the week provides flexibility for groups to meet either before work, after hours, or on weekends, accommodating various schedules. The presence of on-site amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, clean restrooms, and dedicated staff support enhances the overall experience, reducing any logistical concerns about coordinating large or small group visits. For groups looking to combine a workout or recreation with a meeting or celebration, McBurney offers event spaces and technical equipment to support such events, streamlining planning and execution. These factors collectively make McBurney YMCA a practical, accessible, and group-friendly destination.
What makes McBurney YMCA’s community programs stand out? Beyond physical fitness, McBurney YMCA shines as a community-centered organization focused on building connections among its members. It offers leadership development programs and community engagement initiatives that friends can participate in together, providing enriching opportunities beyond exercise. These programs foster a sense of belonging and collective purpose, which adds meaningful depth to the experience of meeting up at the YMCA. There are also special seasonal programs such as basketball, boxing, ballet, and karate, which present fun ways for groups to explore new skills collaboratively while staying active. Importantly, McBurney YMCA maintains a charitable mission that supports people who might otherwise be excluded from participating due to financial constraints, meaning your group’s involvement helps support inclusive community values. This focus on social good, combined with comprehensive programming, equips McBurney YMCA to offer more than just leisure—it's a place where friends can grow personally and socially while having fun.
How can groups maximize their experience at McBurney YMCA? To get the most out of a meetup at McBurney YMCA, groups should consider planning activities that blend fitness with social interaction to keep everyone engaged. Starting with a group workout or fitness class is a fantastic way to energize the group and create a shared accomplishment. Following that, taking advantage of the pool facilities can offer a refreshing break and added enjoyment, particularly for those who may prefer low-impact exercise or relaxation. Booking time in the YMCA’s event or meeting rooms can facilitate social gatherings or celebrations after physical activities, providing space for food, conversation, and celebration. Engaging with YMCA staff ahead of time can assist in tailoring programs or event schedules to fit group sizes and interests. Lastly, integrating time for socializing outside the YMCA, such as visiting nearby cafes or parks, can round out the experience, making the meetup holistic—active, fun, and socially fulfilling.
In summary, McBurney YMCA is an outstanding place to rally with friends, offering a broad spectrum of activities, accessible and well-equipped facilities, and a warm, community-focused environment. Whether your group is fitness-driven or just looking for a lively, welcoming venue to spend time together, McBurney YMCA presents the perfect blend of utility, enjoyment, and connection that makes every meetup memorable.