When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Movement Harlem
Why Movement Harlem is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Movement Harlem is a vibrant bouldering-only gym situated across from the iconic Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York. Specializing exclusively in bouldering—a form of rock climbing without ropes on walls not exceeding 15 feet—this facility offers hundreds of climbs that are refreshed weekly, ensuring climbers of all skill levels find fresh and exciting challenges. The gym’s open-floor layout showcases diverse wall angles and a unique route-setting style, designed to be both fun and challenging. Beyond climbing, Movement Harlem fosters a welcoming community atmosphere with regular classes and events such as yoga for climbers, technique introductions, and community meet-ups. The facility also features state-of-the-art training equipment including campus boards, tension boards, and LED MoonBoards for customized workouts. Visitors can easily jumpstart their climbing journey with the Learn to Climb Package, which includes unlimited climbing for a month, climbing and technique classes, yoga and fitness sessions, plus rental gear. Movement Harlem’s inclusive environment, expert instruction, and premium facilities make it an excellent meeting place for friends to gather, stay active, and expand their climbing skills together.
Here's what people think of Movement Harlem
As of recent, Movement Harlem holds a 4.7-star rating based on 252 reviews.
User reviews of Movement Harlem highlight a consistently positive experience, reflected in the high rating of approximately 4.7 stars from over 250 reviews. Many reviewers praise the gym’s clean, welcoming environment and the availability of challenging climbs catering to a wide range of abilities. Positive feedback often mentions the knowledgeable and friendly staff, the freshness and variety of climbing routes which keep the experience engaging, and the strong sense of community fostered by the gym through events and classes such as yoga and technique sessions. Users appreciate the modern training equipment and the convenient location near the Apollo Theater, making it an accessible and culturally rich spot. On the other hand, some negative reviews note occasional crowding during peak hours, which can limit access to certain climbing routes or training equipment. A few users mention pricing as a concern, though many recognize the value provided through comprehensive classes and community events. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive reviews underscore Movement Harlem’s reputation as a top-tier climbing facility with an inviting social atmosphere, supportive staff, and excellent amenities for both beginners and seasoned climbers alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dracinc I Donn Thompson - New York Photographer
Movement is an enjoyable place to bring your kids for the day. Or for the serious-minded person who wants a different kind of workout, this is the place
Gabriel Carral
Such a great gym with a great community. Although this is a bouldering only gym I find the layout, the creativity of the route setting, and the location make up for its lack of tall wall climbs. Memberships Can be a bit expensive, but considering the lack of gyms or outdoor climbing in the New York City area it makes sense. I do wish they had more variety in the weights section of the gym. Maybe some sorta pull down machines, but that’s only for those who want to take their training more serious. Overall I highly recommend this gym!
Fred Alluso
An outstanding destination for bouldering enthusiasts. There are dedicated strength, cardio, and yoga spaces. I find my visits to be mostly pleasant. There are plenty of climbers of different levels, and I you are never too far from someone to learn from. The facility also offers lockers, showers, and a gear shop. My only complaint about this location is the excessive dust and chalk buildup throughout the gym. The accumulation is much more than that of any of the other NY based Movement facilities.
Douglas NY
Great climbing gym! The facilities are clean and well maintained. But the standout is the staff. They are all extremely helpful, friendly and welcoming. The coaches are knowledgeable and great with kids, and everyone at the front desk is a climber, so they know how they can best help anyone coming into the gym.
Emma Kolakowski
I love this place!! Everyone here is so kind and friendly and they have a ton of community events - LGBTQ night, craft sales, art showcases, etc. I actually started climbing here, when they had a free event for National Climbing Day. I've been going for almost 2 years now and I love it. Highly recommend!!
How to reach Movement Harlem
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Website: None
Why Movement Harlem may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Movement Harlem with your friends?
Movement Harlem is more than just a climbing gym; it is an inviting community hub that offers an exhilarating way to connect with friends and loved ones through adventure and shared activity. With an impressive 4.7 rating from 252 reviews, this venue clearly excels at creating memorable experiences for groups. Rallying your friends here means enjoying a unique blend of physical challenge and social interaction in a lively, welcoming atmosphere that appeals to all skill levels from beginners to seasoned climbers. The staff’s enthusiasm and professionalism ensure that your group is supported whether you’re seeking a fun outing, celebrating a special occasion, or looking to bond over a new activity. Moreover, the facility’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity creates a safe space where everyone feels encouraged to participate and make meaningful connections. By choosing Movement Harlem, you’re opting for more than just rock climbing; you’re choosing a dynamic environment filled with energy, encouragement, and community spirit, perfect for strengthening ties and creating new stories with friends and family.
What activities can you do at Movement Harlem that make it ideal for group meetups?
Movement Harlem offers a variety of activities tailored to groups, making it an ideal destination for meetups. Central to the gym is its bouldering area, which provides a fun and physically engaging climbing experience that requires no harnesses or ropes, making it accessible to climbers of all levels. Group climbing sessions are supervised by expert staff who provide guidance and encouragement, ensuring everyone can join in safely. For birthday parties or special celebrations, Movement Harlem offers dedicated packages that include two hours of staff-led climbing, access to rental gear, and private space to enjoy food and cake brought by your group. This makes organizing and enjoying parties stress-free and memorable. Beyond casual climbing, the gym hosts special interest meetups, like BIPOC climb nights and LGBTQ+ community events, fostering an inclusive atmosphere that supports diverse social groups while everyone shares in the joy of climbing and community. They also cater to corporate outings, youth groups, and school programs, with custom events designed to promote teamwork and communication, making the space perfect for any kind of group looking to bond and grow together.
How does Movement Harlem support a great group atmosphere and community connection?
Movement Harlem is built on the foundation of community and connection, which is evident in how they cultivate a welcoming environment for all visitors. With regular community events like BIPOC climb nights and LGBTQ+ meetups, the gym fosters inclusivity and offers safe spaces for often underrepresented groups to gather, connect, and support each other. These events often feature rentals included in the price and are designed for climbers of any experience level, promoting learning and friendship in a non-competitive setting. The staff actively encourages social interaction, providing expert instruction and chaperones who help initiate climbing activities for groups, which ensures everyone stays engaged and motivated. The facility’s design—with accessible locker rooms, private party spaces, and accessible entrances and elevators—further supports comfort and ease for all attendees, including those with differing needs. By hosting both organized events and casual drop-in sessions, Movement Harlem continuously nurtures a dynamic, energetic community pulse that brings people together around a shared passion for climbing and adventure, making it a natural spot for groups to build connections.
What facilities and amenities at Movement Harlem enhance the experience for groups?
Movement Harlem stands out for its comprehensive facilities that cater specifically to group needs and make gatherings both enjoyable and convenient. The gym features state-of-the-art bouldering walls suitable for all skill levels, meaning your entire group—from beginners to advanced climbers—can participate in activities tailored to their abilities. For private events such as birthdays or corporate outings, there is a dedicated party area where groups can relax, enjoy catering if requested, or bring their own food, creating a festive atmosphere without hassle. The gym provides all essential climbing gear rentals, such as climbing shoes, included in party packages, removing any barriers to participation. Additional amenities include gendered and universal changing rooms, lockers with bring-your-own-lock policies, and accessible facilities including elevators, ensuring ease of use for everyone in your group. The venue also hosts regular free climbing days and intro classes, which can serve as perfect opportunities for groups to get started or try climbing together for the first time without cost, enhancing the appeal for meetups. Altogether, these thoughtful facilities position Movement Harlem as an outstanding destination for social climbing events.
Why is Movement Harlem perfect for diverse groups looking to try something new together?
Movement Harlem is uniquely positioned as a perfect venue for diverse groups seeking an exciting and physically engaging activity together due to its inclusive ethos and broad programming. The gym welcomes people of all backgrounds, orientations, ages, and abilities with open arms, demonstrated by its partnerships with groups like the BIPOC Climbing Collective and CRUX LGBTQ+ climbing events, specifically designed to create safe and affirming spaces for marginalized communities. These events welcome newcomers and experienced climbers alike, promoting camaraderie, empowerment, and respect in every session. Additionally, the setting’s focus on bouldering—a form of climbing that doesn’t require complex equipment or advanced training—makes it particularly approachable for groups venturing into climbing for the first time or looking for a less intimidating experience. The knowledgeable, passionate staff support a culture of encouragement and mutual care, which is crucial for groups trying new challenges together. Whether you are celebrating milestones, strengthening friendships, or team building, Movement Harlem offers an unparalleled combination of adventure, inclusiveness, and community spirit that ensures every group leaves with shared memories and a renewed sense of adventure.