When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami Beach with a group of friends or family, consider
Scott Rakow Youth Center
Why Scott Rakow Youth Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Scott Rakow Youth Center, located at 2700 Sheridan Avenue in Miami Beach, is a dynamic and multi-faceted recreational facility that serves children, teens, adults, and seniors alike. Established in 1976 originally to serve local teens, it has since expanded its offerings to become a beloved community hub. Visitors can enjoy a wide spectrum of activities, including a six-lane outdoor swimming pool maintained at an inviting 82 degrees year-round, an indoor ice skating rink, and six bowling lanes. The center also features a gymnasium, arts and crafts center, game room, media room, music room, fitness center, and computer lab, providing diverse options for recreation and learning. With structured classes in swimming, ice skating, hockey, and various sports leagues, it caters to all skill levels and ages. The facility is wheelchair accessible, air-conditioned, and offers convenient amenities such as customer parking and restrooms. Open six days a week with extended hours on weekdays, it is a fantastic place where friends and families can gather for fun, fitness, and social connection in a friendly, welcoming environment. The Scott Rakow Youth Center's inclusive atmosphere and comprehensive recreational offerings make it a perfect spot to meet up and engage in enjoyable activities together.
Here's what people think of Scott Rakow Youth Center
As of recent, Scott Rakow Youth Center holds a 4.5-star rating based on 79 reviews.
User reviews of the Scott Rakow Youth Center consistently highlight the friendly and welcoming atmosphere that sets this facility apart. Visitors commonly praise the courteous and helpful staff, noting that lifeguards and employees greet patrons warmly and contribute to a safe and inclusive environment. Positive feedback emphasizes the variety of activities available, from free bowling and ice skating to tai chi classes, pickleball, volleyball, basketball, and swimming lessons. Families and children particularly appreciate the holiday events and youth camps organized here, making it a vibrant place for all ages. The gym's air conditioning and cleanliness of the pool area also receive commendations, contributing to an enjoyable experience year-round. On the other hand, some criticisms reflect that portions of the playground are under construction, temporarily limiting access, and there can be occasional scheduling constraints or rental fee considerations for non-residents. However, these negatives tend to be minor and do not detract significantly from the overall positive customer sentiment. In conclusion, reviews portray the Scott Rakow Youth Center as a well-maintained, family-friendly facility that offers a broad range of recreational options and fosters a strong sense of community through its attentive staff and welcoming environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
EJ C
Review for Ice Skating - great rink, we went for the public skate on Sunday which is from 3pm-5pm. You'll want to register online prior to your visit and purchase entry and skate rental. There are no lockers, so anything you bring you'll either have on you around the rink or have to leave in the bleachers. The girl doing the skates is not very friendly, she didn't really acknowledge us when we were the first to arrive and snapped at me when I returned a pair of skates with the laces not inside the shoe. It was my first time here so didn't know that was a rule. There is a sign right next to her window but seeing as there was no line I went straight to her and didn't have time to stand there reading notices. Perhaps if they were around the rink or seating area people would be better prepared. Skaters are all levels and it fills up pretty quickly, if you're a first time skater get there at 3 like we did so you get the space to get used to being on the ice before the pros show up.
Annie
Hope people don’t find out about this ice rink bc it’s the best one I could find in Miami
Nathalie Vargas
Service was amazing, me and my friends had a lot of fun skates are really cheap too
Lida Buritica Bichel
hours of operation need to be extended for it to serve the community. A community center that is closed on a Saturday? I don't understand this. Pool hours from 6 to 8:30 am is just too short of a time to be used by residents. Staff could be friendlier.
Laura Marberger
First of all, I just want to say that this is a great ice skating rink to go with your friends and hang out BUT, they did not tell us the right times on their website. My friend and I woke up super early just to go have fun and they didn’t even mention that there are ONLY private lessons on Sunday. We had to remake our whole plans and wrap our fun around THEIR schedule when it should be the other way around. Stay warned and don’t trust their website!
How to reach Scott Rakow Youth Center
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Why Scott Rakow Youth Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Scott Rakow Youth Center with your friends?
If you are looking for a vibrant, energetic, and inclusive place to gather your friends or family, the Scott Rakow Youth Center in Miami Beach is an outstanding choice. With a stellar 4.5 rating from 79 reviews, this community hub offers a unique blend of recreational, athletic, and creative activities that appeal to all age groups. Whether your group likes sports, arts, or just enjoying quality time in a lively setting, Scott Rakow has you covered. The center provides a refreshing alternative to the typical meetups, allowing you to bond over shared experiences in ice skating, bowling, swimming, or even music and crafts. Beyond fun, it's a well-maintained facility with welcoming staff who create a friendly and safe atmosphere, making it easy to relax and connect. Its multiple amenities encourage interaction and teamwork, whether you're competing in a game or tackling a craft project together. Above all, its affordability—free for Miami Beach residents and modestly priced for visitors—combined with its central location, makes it accessible and perfect for casual or planned events. Rallying here means creating memorable moments in a dynamic environment designed for socializing, play, and discovery.
What activities can you enjoy at Scott Rakow Youth Center?
Scott Rakow Youth Center is a multi-purpose community space that offers a wide and diverse selection of activities suitable for groups of friends or family gatherings. For those who love sports, the center boasts an ice skating rink where you can glide or take part in hockey leagues, and six bowling lanes perfect for friendly competition or birthday parties. There is also an indoor gymnasium for basketball open play, promoting teamwork and active fun. Swimming enthusiasts can take advantage of the six-lane lap pool, which is kept at a comfortable 82 degrees year-round, ideal for lap swimming, swim classes, or cheering on the Miami Beach Seahawks swim team. Fitness lovers can also enjoy a fully-equipped indoor fitness center to work out together, which adds an active and health-oriented option for meetups.
For groups interested in creative and quieter activities, the center has an arts and crafts room, music and media rooms, and computer labs. These spaces are perfect for those who appreciate artistic collaboration, music lessons, or gaming sessions. Notably, Scott Rakow also hosts a variety of classes—from swimming to martial arts, gymnastics, dance, and even musical theater—giving groups a chance to try something new together or continue an ongoing interest. The center’s game room provides yet another layer of entertainment, with options to engage in classic or electronic games in a relaxed indoor setting. Each activity area is designed to accommodate a range of ages and skill levels, making the center a superb place for groups consisting of kids, teens, adults, and families to have fun side by side.
Why is Scott Rakow Youth Center the perfect venue for group meetups?
Scott Rakow Youth Center is ideal for group meetups because it offers a turnkey solution for entertainment, socializing, and relaxation all in one place. The facility’s expansive range of amenities allows a group to customize their day to fit everyone's preferences. Whether your group wants active physical movement with ice skating or basketball, water activities like swimming, or quieter moments enjoying crafts and games, everyone can find something tailored just for them. The presence of multiple recreational options under one roof eliminates the hassle of traveling between different locations, helping to maximize your time together.
Moreover, the venue’s welcoming ambiance and safe environment make it comfortable for groups of all ages and backgrounds. The staff is known for their friendliness and support, contributing to a community feel that encourages interaction among friends and newcomers alike. This sense of community is especially important for anyone looking to bond in a positive space. It also facilitates organized events such as pool parties, bowling and ice skating rentals, making it easier to plan celebrations or special gatherings with professional assistance. Outside spaces like the soon-to-be-renovated playground add an extra layer of enjoyment, especially for families with younger children. The facility’s operational hours and reasonable entrance fees further contribute to making Scott Rakow Youth Center accessible for day-long or half-day group meetups.
What unique programs and events enhance the group experience?
Beyond the standard amenities, Scott Rakow Youth Center hosts an array of unique programs and events that enhance the experience of visiting with a group. For example, the center runs summer and holiday camps that are highly regarded for their engaging sports, instructional classes, and recreational activities, ideal for families with children seeking fun and educational opportunities. The musical theater and private music lessons offered at the center encourage group participation in performing arts, enabling friends or family members to discover talents or pursue new hobbies together.
There are also specialty activities like open chess sessions, allowing groups to engage in strategic play in a friendly environment, supported by expert instructors who cater to all skill levels. Active-minded visitors can join martial arts or fencing classes for a more intense physical challenge and social interaction. Seasonal and holiday events frequently take place, providing thematic occasions to celebrate as a group and deepen connections through shared experiences. These programs reflect the center’s mission to foster community involvement and lifelong learning, making meetups here not only entertaining but enriching.
How accessible and convenient is Scott Rakow Youth Center for visitors?
Scott Rakow Youth Center is conveniently located at 2700 Sheridan Avenue in Miami Beach, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors. The center has generous operating hours, including evenings on weekdays and Sundays, which accommodate varying schedules and allow for flexible planning of meetups. Miami Beach residents enter free of charge, which provides added value and encourages repeat visits. Non-residents pay a modest fee that still makes the experience affordable for most groups.
Parking is available on site and is free, a notable advantage in Miami Beach where parking can be challenging. This convenience reduces stress and streamlines group logistics. The center’s policy and rules ensure a welcoming environment, with staff enforcing safety and cleanliness that contribute to a comfortable visit. Though the playground is currently under renovation, this update signals continual investment in the facility, promising even better amenities soon. With all these factors combined, Scott Rakow Youth Center stands out as a thoughtfully designed community space that supports easy, enjoyable gatherings without the common hassles of crowded venues or limited offerings.
What makes Scott Rakow Youth Center a community cornerstone?
Since its inception in 1976, Scott Rakow Youth Center has grown from a teen facility into a vibrant community cornerstone serving children, adults, and seniors alike. Its deep roots in Miami Beach make it a beloved gathering spot that reflects and supports the diversity and energy of the local population. Regular attendees praise it for its family-friendly atmosphere, lively programs, and the quality of its staff. The center acts as a hub for social interaction, where friendships are forged and strengthened through shared leisure and learning activities.
Moreover, the center’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that people from all walks of life find a welcoming space here. Whether through sports leagues, creative arts, or educational classes, Scott Rakow Youth Center facilitates connection and personal growth. It also serves as a venue for community-driven events, from summer camps to holiday celebrations, reinforcing its role in fostering civic pride and togetherness. For anyone looking to host a meetup that combines fun, culture, and community spirit, Scott Rakow Youth Center not only meets expectations—it raises them.