When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
The Handle Bar - Kendall Square
Why The Handle Bar - Kendall Square is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Handle Bar - Kendall Square serves as a premier destination for indoor cycling enthusiasts and those looking to combine fitness with a social atmosphere. Located in the courtyard at 14 Hampshire in Kendall Square, Cambridge, this studio offers a vibrant and welcoming setting perfect for meeting up with friends and engaging in energetic workouts. The basement-level studio features modern amenities including cubbies and lockers for personal belongings, two fully stocked gender-neutral showers and restrooms, and conveniences such as available water for purchase and spin shoes to borrow, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors. The highlight of The Handle Bar Kendall Square is its signature HB CYCLE classes — 45-minute beat-based cycling sessions designed to energize and motivate riders through music-driven workouts. This combination of music and cycling creates an immersive and motivating environment, ideal for group workouts or a fun class with friends. The studio is recognized for being woman-owned and LGBTQ-friendly, fostering an inclusive community where diverse groups can connect over fitness.
Here's what people think of The Handle Bar - Kendall Square
As of recent, The Handle Bar - Kendall Square holds a 4.2-star rating based on 73 reviews.
User reviews for The Handle Bar - Kendall Square reflect a generally positive experience, with an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 73 reviews. Many reviewers appreciate the upbeat and motivating atmosphere of the cycling classes, highlighting the excellent energy brought by the music and instructors. Positive feedback often focuses on the cleanliness of the facility, availability of amenities like showers and lockers, and the welcoming, inclusive environment that supports diversity and community. Guests frequently commend the convenient location in Kendall Square and the helpfulness of the staff, including the accessibility of borrowing spin shoes and purchasing water on site. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional difficulty finding parking nearby and sporadic issues with class availability or scheduling conflicts. A few users point out that the basement-level location may be less visible or harder to find for first-time visitors. Despite these minor drawbacks, the presence of knowledgeable instructors and a supportive environment tends to outweigh isolated complaints. Overall, the reviews suggest The Handle Bar - Kendall Square is highly regarded as a friendly, energetic cycling studio that successfully balances effective workouts with a great social atmosphere.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Laura Drepanos
always puts me in a good/ energized mood no matter how dark and cold cambridge winters get!! michele’s classes are so fun and ashley’s are a great workout but I’ve loved all the instructors here!
Diogo Ferri Marques
Alexa was amazing! Her energy, choreography, and song choices made the entire class enjoyable and uplifting. I felt challenged in the best way possible, and the positive feeling I had afterward was incredible. I can't wait to attend another class with her! Highly recommended!
Hannah Ruth Ellen
Love this studio! The teachers are amazing and you can pick the class based on the musical artists that will be playing in the class so you can really select the style that will pump you up. They always mix up the playlists too so you don't get sick of any songs. It's also really affordable, great deals and class packs, the spin shoes are included w/ each class and are high quality (leather with good stretch but firm hold), the place is clean, and people are friendly and positive.
Sarah Crawford
One of the best cycling classes I’ve been to in Boston! The staff is FANTASTIC - kind, friendly, and personable. The Ariana Grande ride on Wednesday with Jesse was a truly motivational and intense workout. Steph is also a fantastic instructor! Parking is truly the only downside to this location but staff can help you find permit free streets to park on nearby. Cant wait to ride again soon 🚴♀️
Clarence Yeung
It was okay, choice of music was alright, with obvious mirroring to soul cycle, which too is alright. Seem to be more friendly towards long term users rather than first time people like me but it does the trick. They're also below ground so makes the whole experience feel like an escape room- spin class all in one.
How to reach The Handle Bar - Kendall Square
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Why The Handle Bar - Kendall Square may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Handle Bar - Kendall Square with your friends? If you and your friends are looking for an energetic, community-driven, and unique place to gather, The Handle Bar - Kendall Square in Cambridge, MA, is an exceptional choice. This indoor cycling studio combines fitness, fun, and social connection under one roof, making it an ideal spot for group meetups. Whether you and your group are fitness enthusiasts or simply want a lively environment to share an active experience, this studio offers a vibrant atmosphere that promotes both wellness and camaraderie. With a solid 4.2 rating from over 73 reviewers, it shows consistent satisfaction from visitors who appreciate the studio's welcoming vibe and high-energy classes. The Handle Bar isn't just a workout spot; it’s a destination that celebrates community spirit, music, and movement, blending exciting cycling sessions with social amenities like showers, lockers, and a supportive environment that encourages friends and family to rally together. For nonprofits, friend groups, or families seeking a fun way to connect through activity, The Handle Bar stands out as the perfect hub.
What activities can you do at The Handle Bar - Kendall Square? The core offering at The Handle Bar is its indoor cycling classes, which are designed to energize and engage riders of all levels. These aren’t typical spin classes; each session is curated with dynamic playlists ranging from EDM rave rides to throwback hits like early 2000s pop queens, transforming the exercise into a full sensory experience. The classes are led by passionate instructors like Alexa and Colleen, who infuse motivation and energy into every ride, ensuring that the group vibe stays upbeat and inclusive. Aside from regular rides, there are special themed events that add an extra layer of excitement and provide a unique reason for friends to meet up. The studio also supports fitness-minded socializing by offering essentials like well-maintained spin shoes for borrow, towelettes, and waters, so no one has to worry about bringing extra gear. With gender-neutral showers and lockers on-site, everyone can freshen up after a ride, making it feasible to continue the outing elsewhere once the cycling session wraps up.
Why is The Handle Bar perfect for a group meetup? One of the most compelling reasons to choose this location for meeting up with a group is its balance of structure and flexibility. The studio’s basement location in a courtyard at 14 Hampshire St provides a private, intimate setting that feels like a destination rather than just a gym. This privacy combined with excellent amenities—such as cubbies, lockers, and gender-neutral shower facilities—means you and your group can comfortably spend a few hours here, cycling together and hanging out without feeling rushed. Moreover, the studio’s commitment to being LGBTQ-friendly and woman-owned fosters an inclusive atmosphere where all guests feel welcome and respected. This sense of community strengthens group cohesion and ensures everyone enjoys their time. Additionally, street parking is usually available nearby, which simplifies logistics for larger groups coming together from different places. Whether you’re planning a birthday, casual fitness hangout, or a more regular social ride, The Handle Bar’s environment enhances the experience by seamlessly blending fitness with social connection.
What makes the indoor cycling classes at The Handle Bar different? Indoor cycling can sometimes feel repetitive or disconnected, but The Handle Bar reinvents the experience by making it both immersive and interactive. Their classes aren’t merely workouts; they feel like events, leveraging music, lighting, and instructor charisma to build an enthusiastic atmosphere. The use of diverse themed classes keeps members excited to come back and try something new, whether it’s a high-intensity EDM rave ride or a nostalgic trip with pop hits from the early 2000s. This variety caters to multiple tastes within a single group, making it easier to find rides that everyone can enjoy together. Also, the provision of high-quality spin bikes, well-maintained studio facilities, and professional instruction enhances safety and performance, allowing participants to focus fully on the ride and the shared experience. Many users appreciate that the instructors motivate riders not just individually but as a team, amplifying the feeling of group accomplishment and making meetups feel extra rewarding.
How inclusive and accommodating is The Handle Bar - Kendall Square for all types of groups? Inclusivity is a noted highlight of The Handle Bar studio, which emphasizes creating a space where every rider feels comfortable. The studio is designated as woman-owned and LGBTQ-friendly, deliberately fostering an environment free of judgment where diversity is celebrated. The availability of gender-neutral restrooms and showers further reflects this commitment to accessibility and respect for all identities. For groups that may include people new to cycling or those with varying fitness levels, the staff offers spin shoe rentals and other equipment to remove common barriers to participation. The studio’s approach to community extends beyond just individual comfort; it cultivates group spirit and encourages people to come as they are. This welcoming environment makes it a particularly good venue for family gatherings, friend groups with diverse backgrounds, or even workplace meetups seeking team-building through active and inclusive means.
How convenient is the location and amenities of The Handle Bar - Kendall Square? Located within Kendall Square’s vibrant tech and innovation district, The Handle Bar is easy to access by car or public transport, catering to groups coming from various parts of Cambridge and beyond. Situated in a quiet courtyard at 14 Hampshire Street, the studio offers a private, distraction-free venue that feels removed from the usual hustle of the city, making it an ideal retreat for a focused group activity. Parking is typically available on nearby streets, easing one common challenge many group meetups face. Inside, the studio boasts well-thought-out amenities including spacious cubbies and lockers where guests can store belongings securely during rides. The two full-stocked gender-neutral showers make it easy for riders to clean up and feel refreshed before or after their session, which is important when planning longer outings or combining fitness with other social activities. Additional conveniences like towels, mats, and waters for purchase ensure guests have everything needed to enjoy a smooth, comfortable visit without last-minute scrambling. Together, these factors contribute to The Handle Bar’s standing as a hassle-free and accommodating location for group meetups.
What kind of social and community events does The Handle Bar offer to enhance group experiences? Beyond regular cycling classes, The Handle Bar hosts special themed rides and events that give groups more reasons to come together. Events like “EDM Rave Rides” or “Throwbacks: Early 2000s Pop Queens” infuse cycling sessions with party-level energy and cultural fun, creating moments that go beyond exercise into memorable social experiences. These rides suit groups looking for playful, high-energy ways to bond over shared interests such as music and fitness. The studio also frequently promotes workshops and seasonal events that add variety to the typical workout routine, providing fresh conversation starters and opportunities for deepening friendships and community connections. Participating in these social rides allows friend groups or families not only to improve their fitness but also to engage in vibrant, interactive fun that strengthens bonds. This blend of fitness and festivity aligns perfectly with the idea of meeting up to rally, celebrate, and recharge together, reinforcing The Handle Bar’s appeal as a group venue.
How does The Handle Bar support post-ride relaxation and socializing? After an intense cycling session, socializing and relaxing are key to rounding out a group meetup experience, and The Handle Bar accommodates this naturally with its facilities and setting. The availability of showers and changing areas means groups can freshen up and transition smoothly from exercise to social time without the discomfort of lingering sweat or discomfort. The studio’s design includes common areas where groups can chat before or after rides, promoting conversation and connection. While it is primarily a fitness venue, the lively energy and music create a communal atmosphere that encourages guests to hang around and enjoy each other’s company. Many visitors appreciate that they can come for a solid workout and leave having shared a meaningful social interaction with friends or family. For those looking to extend their outing, its Kendall Square location puts them just steps away from local cafes, restaurants, and bars, allowing a seamless progression from cycling to dining or drinks, further enriching the group experience.
What do reviewers say about the group experience at The Handle Bar - Kendall Square? Many reviewers highlight the studio’s powerful combination of motivating instruction, solid amenities, and upbeat atmosphere that makes it a great place to bring friends. With a rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on around 73 reviews, common praises include welcoming instructors, high-energy music playlists, and the inclusive vibe that welcomes riders of all skill levels. Groups often mention that the themed rides add an enjoyable twist and help make workouts more engaging and less solo. The gender-neutral facilities and availability of showers receive frequent positive notes, especially from those coming in from work or other activities. While some mention the basement location as less visible, most agree this adds to a private, cozy feel desirable for group activities. Overall, the reviews reinforce that The Handle Bar is seen as a friendly, socially oriented studio that successfully combines exercise with meaningful group connection, ideal for friend or family meetups.
What makes The Handle Bar - Kendall Square a unique meetup destination compared to other studios? Unlike many fitness studios that focus solely on exercise, The Handle Bar—originally known as Turnstyle—blends physical activity with a curated cultural experience that celebrates cycling’s spirit in a vibrant, social setting. Their distinct approach to themed rides, music, and community-building makes them stand out as an urban cycling hub rather than just a workout spot. Its woman-owned, LGBTQ-friendly status adds layers of social ethos that resonate with inclusive, diverse groups looking for venues that reflect their values. The high level of amenities like showers, lockers, spin shoe rentals, and nice communal areas also means guests don’t just come to exercise—they come to connect, refresh, and celebrate fitness as a shared joy. Its convenient yet discrete location in the heart of Kendall Square allows groups to easily combine their ride with other local experiences, making The Handle Bar not only a physical activity studio but a holistic meetup and social destination.
How can you book a group session or inquire about events at The Handle Bar - Kendall Square? Planning a meetup or special event at The Handle Bar is straightforward, with the studio offering easy ways to get in touch. Interested groups can contact the location manager, Amy, directly at amy@handlebarcycling.com or call the studio at (617) 531-8922 for inquiries regarding scheduling, pricing, or special group accommodations. The studio’s website also provides updated class schedules and event announcements, ensuring groups can find sessions that fit their needs. Whether you want to reserve spots for a birthday ride, arrange a private session, or participate in special themed rides together, reaching out ahead helps secure the best experience. The staff’s openness to group needs makes organizing larger meetups hassle-free. This accessibility combined with their inclusive, friendly culture positions The Handle Bar as a top choice for active social gatherings in the Cambridge area.