When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center
Why Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center is a spacious and vibrant facility located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, that has been serving the community since 1991. With approximately 51,000 square feet dedicated to fitness and recreation, it stands out as an inviting place for individuals and groups to meet up and engage in a variety of physical activities. The center features modern amenities, including an indoor walking track that provides a safe and comfortable environment for exercise, free from the interruptions commonly found in multi-sport areas. Fitness enthusiasts have access to extensive cardio and strength training areas equipped with a wide range of exercise machines to target all muscle groups. Beyond the workout rooms, the center boasts a gymnasium perfect for basketball, a swimming pool suitable for both recreational and lap swimming, and diverse group fitness classes such as yoga and other healthful living activities. The setting is bright and welcoming, with ample natural light creating a pleasant atmosphere. The center is staffed by experienced, enthusiastic professionals committed to helping visitors achieve their fitness goals. Open year-round with generous operating hours, it offers a family-friendly environment suitable for all ages, making it an excellent destination to meet friends, stay active, and enjoy community events.
Here's what people think of Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center
As of recent, Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center holds a 4.4-star rating based on 294 reviews.
User reviews of Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center emphasize a generally positive experience highlighted by the wide range of facilities and welcoming atmosphere. Many reviewers praise the indoor walking track for its dedicated space and safety features, which allow walking without concerns about other sports interfering. Positive feedback often notes the variety of exercise equipment, the availability of fitness classes, and the cleanliness and maintenance of the pool and gym areas. Users also appreciate the knowledgeable and helpful staff who create an inclusive environment and support the community’s health and wellness goals. On the downside, some reviewers have commented on occasional crowding during peak times, which can affect access to equipment and space. Others mention intermittent wait times for popular fitness classes or pool use. However, these criticisms are generally outweighed by the positive aspects of the facility. Overall, the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center is regarded as a reliable and enjoyable spot for diverse recreational activities, highly recommended by many who have experienced its friendly and well-equipped environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Y L
The badminton courts were always busy, but the real issue is that some people there are very mean and they lie with straight face. I waited on a badminton court for 20 minutes, then began to play with my son at 7:45, a few minutes later, the group of 4 people that just played on this court came to us, asking us to leave because we have been playing for 20 minutes. I said I timed it and we did not even play for 10 minutes. They went to front desk and the front desk person came down and told that someone reported that we had been playing for 30 minutes. Turns out they have surveillance videos, and the front desk checked the video recording and confirmed that we indeed began to play at 7:45 and did not play for even 10 minutes. These guys were like "we play match so we can play longer. You should only play for 10 minutes, not 20 minutes". Really? 20 minutes? 30 minutes? They just made it up. My son was scared and our evening was ruined. If you plan to practice badminton with your family, I would suggest that you begin video recording of your session with iPhone or something at the start to 1. prove how much time you played 2. identify incorrect moves and improve your skills If these bullies pick on you (they most likely will), do not argue with them, call the front desk and show the recordings. Another thing to consider is to record their aggression and post on Tiktok/Youtube. BTW, these bullies' badminton skills were deplorable. Suggestions to management: Clearly codify badminton court rules and post them on the wall. Time each group's play time electronically and enforce fairness. Or, maybe another simple solution is to do what Liberty Athletic Club does: charge $30 per hour for badminton court. The bullies will probably be priced out.
Holly Hendrickson
Horrible experience. I take my kids swimming ALL the time. All of them can swim without issue. I have NEVER had pool staff anywhere pick on my son the way these people did. They were rude and do nothing but pick on kids that are different because they don’t want them there. Do not bother giving these people your money. Grant at the front desk was very helpful and friendly, that was the ONLY plus about this venture. So disgusted.
Paul Schnau
This place has gone downhill big time. Been a member for years but won't be renewing. The upper gym is a mess - it's full of bugs in the summer and nobody seems to care about fixing it. But the worst part is how unfriendly it's become, especially if you have kids. People are rude and impatient, and the staff just stands around doing nothing about it. Don't even get me started on their ridiculous pool rules. They don't let kids in the kiddie pool during lap swim times. Yes, you read that right - the KIDDIE pool is off-limits to kids! Where are families supposed to go? Makes zero sense. What used to be a nice community place has turned into somewhere I honestly can't recommend, especially if you have children. The only good things I can say are that the location is convenient and the rates aren't bad. Everything else needs serious work.
Kevin Wolf
Returning member after several years. I was saddened by the universal weight machine and how filthy it was and pins used to adjust settings were badly rusted needing some grease.
Melissa Reitz
Just attended a super fun pickleball lesson! Gerald explained the game in bite size games! Gerald shares the fun of pickleball clearly!
How to reach Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center
None
Website: None
Why Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center with your friends?
Gathering friends and family at the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center is an excellent choice for creating memorable and fun experiences together. This recreation center offers a generous 51,000 square feet of inviting, open space filled with natural light that fosters a healthy and energetic environment. Whether you are looking to engage in physical activities, participate in group fitness classes, or just spend quality time in a friendly atmosphere, this center caters to all ages and interests. The enthusiastic and experienced staff provide welcoming support, helping groups tailor their visit to maximize enjoyment and fitness success. Its convenient location in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with ample parking—including nearby County Farm Park—makes it easily accessible for everyone arriving for a meetup. Rated well by a diverse community of users, the center strikes a perfect balance between an active, health-focused experience and a community gathering spot, making it an ideal rallying point for your next group event where friends and family can connect, relax, and get energized side by side.
What activities can you do at Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center for a group meetup?
Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center offers an extensive variety of activities perfect for groups seeking diverse recreational options. The large gymnasium supports basketball games where teams can compete or practice, accommodating everyone from beginners to seasoned players. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace or multi-purpose use, the center has an indoor walking track that surrounds the gym, providing a weather-proof venue for walking or jogging together. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of both cardio and strength training rooms equipped with modern machines and free weights, suitable for individuals or friendly workout challenges among friends. Additionally, the center offers a schedule of group fitness classes such as yoga sessions, enhancing balance, flexibility, and group mindfulness. Swimming enthusiasts can enjoy the indoor pool, ideal for lap swimming, water aerobics, or casual fun—making it an excellent option for different skill levels within a group. The center's offerings ensure all members of a group can find something engaging, making the experience inclusive and dynamic.
Why is Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center perfect for hosting group events?
Hosting a group event at Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center combines convenience, versatility, and a welcoming atmosphere, crafting an ideal environment for any meetup. The facility was thoughtfully designed to promote social interaction while accommodating active lifestyles, which means groups can engage in various activities without feeling cramped or rushed. The center’s spacious layout and three locker room options (men’s, women’s, and universal) ensure comfort and privacy, which are essential for groups planning longer visits. Its extended hours—open mostly from early morning to late evening—allow your group to choose the most suitable time to gather, from early workouts to evening de-stressing sessions. The professional and friendly staff support group needs by offering personal training assistance and safety orientation when needed, making newcomers feel confident and comfortable. Plus, parking availability and easy access reduce stress related to transportation and logistics. These features collectively provide a reliable and flexible venue where groups can social gather, get active, and foster camaraderie.
What fitness programs and classes are available for groups at Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center?
Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center hosts a variety of fitness programs and classes that promote group participation and community wellness. The classes range from beginner to advanced levels and include popular formats like yoga, which supports joint mobility and relaxation, to more intense cardio or strength training sessions designed to boost endurance and muscle tone. Group classes create a motivating environment where friends and family can set shared fitness goals and cheer each other on, enhancing accountability and enjoyment. The center also offers instructional sessions that teach proper use of weight training equipment and other facilities, allowing everyone—regardless of experience—to safely engage and improve their performance. These programs are typically available to all ages, encouraging intergenerational interaction and support. Group visits can coordinate class attendance, making workouts part of a lively, communal experience rather than a solitary routine. This structure makes the center attractive for both casual exercisers and those aiming to elevate their fitness journey together.
What aquatic opportunities does Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center provide for groups?
The Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center includes a versatile indoor swimming pool that serves as a social and fitness hub for groups large and small. Swimming provides a low-impact exercise option suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, making it an inclusive activity for families and friends to enjoy together. The facility accommodates lap swimming for those interested in building stamina or refreshing their swim strokes. Additionally, the pool space supports water aerobics classes, which are excellent for groups looking to engage in fun, communal workouts that reduce joint stress and improve cardiovascular health. For less structured activities, the center allows casual swimming and aquatic games, offering a relaxed environment for playful splashes and bonding. The pool area, with locker room access and trained staff nearby, ensures safety and convenience throughout the swim experience. This aquatic component further enriches the center’s appeal as a multifaceted venue for group meetups.
How does the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center accommodate families and mixed-age groups?
One of the hallmarks of the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center is its welcoming approach to families and mixed-age groups, providing activities and spaces that cater to diverse energy levels and interests. The center’s programs and amenities are explicitly designed to be accessible to children, adults, and seniors alike, helping groups stay together even as individual preferences differ. For younger guests, the center sometimes provides summer camps and day camps like "Camp Big Heart," which offer structured, enjoyable activities while adults participate in fitness or wellness pursuits. The variety of available classes and recreational spaces allows families to split temporarily for preferred activities and reunite easily in communal areas. The center’s approachable staff are skilled at creating inclusive environments that support family wellness and social connection. This flexibility and range make the location an excellent choice when planning multi-generational gatherings or casual meetups involving friends’ children.
What other amenities make Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center a comfortable venue for longer visits?
Beyond its core recreational offerings, Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center ensures comfort and convenience to support longer visits and relaxed social gatherings. The facility features well-maintained locker rooms, including universal options, allowing guests privacy and ease of changing or freshening up during their stay. Ample parking nearby minimizes the hassle of arrival and departure, which is particularly important for larger groups. The center’s bright, spacious interiors create an uplifting atmosphere where natural light complements the open design, making time spent there pleasant. Along with cardio and strength rooms, the walking track, gymnasium, and pool, the availability of personal trainers provides tailored assistance to groups seeking extra motivation or instruction. These thoughtful amenities combine to encourage guests to linger, socialize, and make the most of their group meetups without feeling rushed or constrained.
In summary, the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center stands out as a top-tier, versatile venue for group activities in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It caters equally to social meetups and physical fitness needs across a wide age range, making it an ideal rallying spot that combines health, fun, and community all under one roof.