When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix
Why The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix is a vibrant, state-of-the-art community center located on a scenic 17-acre site at the base of South Mountain. This expansive facility offers a welcoming space where friends and family can gather to enjoy a wide range of activities and events. The center features three large banquet rooms with AV capabilities suitable for everything from business meetings and expos to family reunions and birthday parties, accommodating up to 1,000 guests. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of three full-size NBA basketball courts, six volleyball courts, as well as three lighted outdoor sports fields, fostering a lively and active environment. Aquatics lovers can enjoy an indoor water park with a pool and a lazy river, making it a perfect spot for people of all ages to relax and have fun. Additional amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, game room, birthday party rooms, and wireless internet further enrich the experience. As a hub for community engagement, the Kroc Center also offers youth development programs, health and wellness services, and fine arts and music education, making it a comprehensive destination to meet, connect, and thrive.
Here's what people think of The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix
As of recent, The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1297 reviews.
Reviews from visitors consistently praise The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix for its welcoming atmosphere, variety of amenities, and family-friendly environment. Many guests highlight the excellent condition and smoothness of the pool water, the well-maintained indoor water park, and the fun offered by the game and party rooms. Users appreciate the center's capacity to host a diverse array of events, from sports tournaments to birthday celebrations, emphasizing its versatility and community spirit. Positive reviews note the helpfulness and friendliness of staff, the spacious facilities, and the beautiful location near South Mountain as factors that contribute to an enjoyable experience. On the other hand, some visitors mention that the pool facilities can become crowded during peak times, which sometimes affects their overall comfort. A few also suggest improvements in lifeguard attentiveness, although this concern appears limited and is outweighed by positive feedback. Overall, the reviews reflect that the Kroc Center serves as a cherished community asset, offering numerous opportunities for recreation, socializing, and personal growth with a strong focus on inclusivity and service.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Leticia Rodriguez
The indoor pool is great. We arrived later in the day so didn't have a chance to visit the rest of the facility but it is a big place. I seen a library, an outdoor splash pad, indoor gym, and a arts and catfish crafts area. You pay a fee for the day which covers access to the whole facility. Our family of 5 visited for a total of $69. The pool has a big slide our 8 year old was able to enjoy and a rock wall. Outdoor splash pad, library Very friendly family atmosphere.
Hex Daemon
Great place with a lot of things to do. Horrible girls for customer service. I signed up online, thinking my daughter didn’t need a pass. I came in to upgrade, and the lady at the front desk was too cool for school and couldn’t be bothered with simple customer service things like eye contact or presence. Then, we checked out the game room and that was super fun. Video games, ping pong table, nice TVs. Then we went swimming and apparently my daughter chose to swim in the “swim group” section she wasn’t supposed to. The lifeguard (another girl too cool to speak up in the loud pool area, rolling her eyes when I asked her to speak up) asked her to move, which was fine, but they expect you to know the rules and are extremely rude when you ask for clarification on what they’re talking about. Also, super super crowded in the evening. We’ll try mornings next.
Ourstories_ Ourtime
We attended the Nick and Kelly Heart Event at the Kroc Center hosted by Phoenix Childrens Hospital, and I just want to say how grateful I am that they put this together. After my daughter’s fourth open-heart surgery, finding a place like the Kroc Center — welcoming, fun, and full of activities for kids — meant the world to us. It was an awesome event, and the heart behind it truly showed. Thank you for making families like ours feel seen and supported.
Andre Barnes
This place is amazing. I took my grandkids, we had 7 people in our group the total for entry 89.00. The kids swam, rock claimed, played in the game room, and just ran around and had fun all day. The building is clean, the restrooms are clean, The employees are always helpful and accommodating. Thank you for having my family we had a great time. I would definitely recommend.
Vic Prada
The kids like the indoor water park and outdoor splash pad, I pay daily pass id probably be better to become a member.
How to reach The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix
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Why The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix with your friends? This center is much more than just a community location; it’s a vibrant hub where individuals and groups can come together to nurture their well-being, foster strong connections, and engage in meaningful activities. With an outstanding 4.6-star rating from nearly 1,300 reviews, it clearly offers a welcoming and well-maintained environment where people feel comfortable and valued. Gathering here with friends or family means you’re stepping into a space designed not only for fun but also for personal growth, physical health, and social interaction. Whether your group is large or small, active or looking to unwind, the diverse facilities and programs cater to all interests and ages. The center’s mission to create a supportive, inclusive community shines through in every aspect, making it a perfect rallying point to reconnect, celebrate, or simply spend quality time together. For groups seeking a place that balances recreation, fitness, education, and socializing, this Kroc Center stands out as an exceptional choice, boasting flexible access like day passes and a warm, family-oriented atmosphere that encourages return visits.
What types of activities can you enjoy at the Kroc Center Phoenix? The center is a beacon for a wide variety of recreational and wellness activities, ensuring every group member finds something enjoyable and engaging. Its aquatic center invites swimmers of all levels to dive in for laps, lessons, or leisurely pool time, while fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of an extensive gym and fitness area equipped to support workouts, weight training, or group exercise classes. The Kroc Center also features a dynamic gymnasium, perfect for team sports such as basketball or volleyball, making it ideal for friendly competitions or casual play. For those seeking a little adventure or unique entertainment, the climbing wall and game room provide challenging fun and opportunities for teamwork and laughter. Moreover, drop-in classes range from yoga and dance to boxing, enabling everyone to explore new skills or maintain their fitness routine together. The center’s offerings extend beyond physical activities, including educational programs and community events, ensuring a holistic experience that satisfies varied interests and encourages social bonding.
Why is The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix ideal for group meetups? Its spacious, modern facilities are thoughtfully designed to accommodate groups of different sizes and interests. Whether you want to hold a casual gathering or a more structured event, the center has meeting rooms and community spaces that can be reserved to suit your needs. These spaces provide a comfortable setting for socializing, dining, or participating in workshops or classes as a group. The inclusive nature of the center means activities and amenities are accessible to people of all ages and abilities, greatly enhancing group cohesion and enjoyment. Its operating hours—spanning early mornings to evenings on weekdays and Saturdays—offer flexibility for scheduling. Additionally, the possibility to purchase day passes ensures that even those without a membership can join and enjoy the center’s benefits, encouraging spontaneous meetups without the pressure of long-term commitment. All these features combine to make it a practical, convenient, and inviting venue to rally with friends or family.
What makes the community atmosphere at the Kroc Center special? The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix fosters a spirit of connection and support that elevates every visit. It’s a place where community members from all walks of life come together not solely for recreation but to build meaningful relationships and access supportive programs. The center hosts worship services, Bible studies, and fellowship groups alongside fitness and recreational classes, providing scope for spiritual growth and social engagement. These activities cultivate a warm, welcoming environment that encourages participation and inclusion. Friendly staff and volunteers contribute substantially to making guests feel at home, attentive to diverse needs and welcoming new visitors enthusiastically. This community-oriented focus extends to families with children, offering child watch services and youth programs, giving parents peace of mind while they enjoy the center’s amenities. The atmosphere here is one where each person, regardless of background or ability, can thrive alongside their peers in a genuine community setting.
How accessible and convenient is the Kroc Center Phoenix for visitors? Located conveniently in Phoenix, the center is easy to reach and operates with hours that accommodate early risers as well as those who prefer evening activities, open Monday to Friday from 6 AM to 8 PM and Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM, with Sunday reserved for worship services. Visitors can drop in with a day pass or opt for membership if planning frequent visits, creating flexible access options for various lifestyles and commitments. Ample parking and clearly posted facility rules enhance the visitor experience, making time spent here stress-free and enjoyable. The website and seasonal program guides keep guests informed about the latest classes, events, and any schedule changes, helping groups plan their visits with confidence. The center’s commitment to safety and comfort—including ID verification for adults at first entrance and supervision for children—ensures a secure environment for all patrons. This attention to visitor needs and convenience adds another layer of appeal, making the Kroc Center a reliable and pleasant destination for group activities.
What specific features support memorable events and special occasions? Beyond everyday recreational use, The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix excels as a venue for celebrations and community gatherings. Its diverse indoor and outdoor spaces can be tailored to accommodate birthdays, family reunions, team-building events, and charitable functions. The event spaces are equipped with modern amenities to facilitate meals, presentations, or entertainment, making it easy for organizers to customize the experience according to their vision. The center’s supportive staff assists in coordinating events, ensuring logistical details and guest needs are met smoothly. Additionally, the center’s inclusive focus creates an environment where every guest feels welcome and valued, enhancing the significance of any gathering held there. Access to fitness, leisure, and children’s activities also ensures that event attendees can enjoy a variety of options throughout the day, keeping energy levels high and spirits uplifted. This flexibility and careful attention to the guest experience help create lasting, positive memories for groups choosing the Kroc Center as their meetup spot.
What educational and wellness programs are available for groups? The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix offers a broad range of programs that promote lifelong learning, health, and wellness. These include youth development programs such as summer camps, tutoring, music lessons, and leadership training that benefit families and youth-focused meetups. Adult fitness classes range from aerobics and dance to specialized boxing and wellness workshops that encourage personal development and group participation. The center also runs spiritual enrichment programs, including regular worship services, Bible studies, and fellowship groups, which appeal to those seeking faith-based community activities. Education extends to general wellness, with workshops focused on nutrition, mental health, and family wellness designed to support the holistic health of all participants. These programs foster an environment where friends and family can grow together, learn new skills, and support each other’s health and happiness, making the center a unique destination for both recreational and personal enrichment.
How do day passes enhance the group experience at the Kroc Center? For groups looking for a flexible, low-commitment option, day passes provide full access to the center’s numerous facilities and programs without requiring a membership. This allows friends or families to plan spontaneous outings or trial visits without long-term obligations. Day passes grant entry to the aquatic center, gym, climbing wall, game rooms, and drop-in classes during open hours, ensuring everyone in the group can find an activity tailored to their pace and interests. This access also includes safe child care through child watch services, which supports families and caregivers during their visit. Offering multiple price tiers based on age groups, day passes accommodate diverse groups and budgets, making the center accessible to a wide audience. By removing barriers related to membership costs or schedules, day passes help groups maximize their time together, making each visit relaxed, fun, and memorable.
Why choose The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix over other venues? The combination of comprehensive recreational amenities, a strong community emphasis, and flexible attendance options sets The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix apart as a premier location for social meetups. Not only does the center provide high-quality facilities for fitness, sports, and leisure, but it also integrates spiritual and educational programming that enriches the social fabric of the community. The broad variety of activities suits all ages and interests, from young children to seniors, making it a truly all-inclusive destination. Moreover, the center’s reputation as part of The Salvation Army adds a layer of trust and philanthropic value, as participating here supports a mission dedicated to helping those in need. This unique blend of social purpose, health focus, and welcoming environment assures groups a meaningful, pleasant, and dynamic experience absent from many other venues.
What are the key operational details for planning your visit? The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center Phoenix operates primarily Monday through Friday from 6 AM until 8 PM, with shorter hours on Saturday from 9 AM until 5 PM. It remains closed on Sundays except for worship services, so planning around these hours is essential for group activities. Unique schedules apply to specific facilities like the boxing ring, pool, gym, and game room, which fluctuate seasonally and require checking the center’s online calendar or contacting them directly for the most accurate information. Reservations for group activities or event spaces can be arranged ahead of time to ensure availability. Clear policies about age restrictions and required supervision for children help groups prepare accordingly. Staying informed on updates and events through the Kroc Center’s website and social media channels can further enhance the experience and avoid any surprises on the day of your visit. With thorough planning supported by clear communication, your group visit to the Kroc Center will be seamless and enjoyable.