When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Vanderbilt YMCA
Why Vanderbilt YMCA is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Located in the heart of Manhattan on East 47th Street, the Vanderbilt YMCA stands as a unique and historic venue offering a welcoming environment ideal for meeting up with friends. Established originally in 1875 to serve railroad workers, this YMCA has evolved into a multifaceted facility blending affordable lodging with community and fitness amenities. The building, completed in 1932 and designed by Warren & Wetmore, retains its legacy while providing modern comforts such as air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, sauna, steam room, and an indoor heated pool. Visitors and locals alike appreciate the convenience of its central location near Grand Central Terminal, Times Square, and Bryant Park, making it a practical meeting spot for social or activity-based gatherings. The facility caters to diverse visitors, including those from the nearby United Nations community, offering clean, dorm-style accommodations equipped with mini-fridges, HD cable TV, and housekeeping services. Beyond lodging, the Vanderbilt YMCA encourages wellness and community connection through group exercise classes and relaxing spa amenities, establishing itself as a vibrant place for both transient guests and regular patrons to come together, work out, and unwind.
Here's what people think of Vanderbilt YMCA
As of recent, Vanderbilt YMCA holds a 3.4-star rating based on 500 reviews.
Reviews for the Vanderbilt YMCA reflect a mixed but overall decent experience, with an average rating around 3.4 out of 5 based on 500 reviews. Many visitors have praised the property for its excellent location in Midtown Manhattan, allowing easy access to iconic New York attractions and transportation hubs. Positive comments often highlight the clean and comfortable dorm-like rooms, noting the presence of air-conditioning, housekeeping, and amenities such as mini-fridges and HD cable TV. The availability of an indoor pool, sauna, fitness center, and group exercise classes enhances the appeal for health-conscious guests and makes it a more comprehensive community center beyond just lodging. Guests also appreciate the value for money, as the accommodation is more affordable compared to similarly located hotels in New York City, making it attractive for budget travelers and groups of friends seeking a central meetup spot. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to the basic nature of the shared bathrooms and the dormitory style rooms, which may feel less private or upscale than traditional hotels. Others mention the average sleep quality and occasional concerns about service efficiency or older infrastructure in a historic building. Overall, while the Vanderbilt YMCA may not offer luxury accommodations, it effectively balances affordability, convenient location, and a range of facilities, making it suitable for visitors who prioritize functionality and community atmosphere. The reviews suggest that it serves well as a gathering place for friends and travelers who value a combination of social space, fitness, and access to the city's highlights.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Wien Loo
Love this location of YMCA, though it is my first YMCA ever, but the staffs here are nice and friendly. Mainly use their swimming pool, it’s always clean, always have a life guide on duty, though one of them was a bit too “aggressive” over their policy but it did not ruin my overall experience. The members there are also nice and courteous and would ask when sharing a lane, I really appreciate the overall experience I have at this location thus far, that’s why I continued to travel from Brooklyn all the way to this midtown location.
Michael RH
This review is about YMCA summer CAMP at the Vanderbilt location. Our experience was -very- ba, with broken promises of field trips, camp counselors who did little more than day care, and limited facilities. My father grew up around a YMCA in Indiana in the 1930s (reallly), I went to a Y on Long Island sometimes -took swimming lessons there and more. But this Y...is really not geared for kids. They haven't thought it out. Its relatively safe day care, and that's all. My son is attended their 'camp.' Really, it doesn't succeed as any form of day camp. The activities are de minimis. They congregate in a gym most of the time. They promised field trips and excursions to the park(s) but these have been very few, if at all. They provide no amenities at all -no lunch, or snack, or towels for the swimming pool (one day a week at most, unless you sign up for the swimming camp -we've moved over. Maybe it will be better). There does not seem to be much thought put into their activities and the 'counselors' seem young and mainly untrained. My son is usually an optimist. But both he and a friend from school who is in the same camp say the same thing: bored. Forget any intellectually challenging activities. We ran into another friend of his, Josh, on a bus there one day. He had gone to the YMCA last year and was at a camp across the street (I was told). His mom said he didn't dislike it while there, but then realized how much better camp could be at the other camp. One day, one of the few 'crafts' projects, they did 'tye dying' and my son brought home a plastic bag with a small green-dyed cloth knapsack in it. The counselor gave it to me. No one mentioned it was still full of wet dye. And then, on the way home, there was a leak... Not happy. My hands were green for a day and a half. They are not really much good at arts and crafts. My son missed the day they painted a cheap wood slide whistle (he had a nosebleed in the morning). So, rather than spend 10 minutes with him to help makeup and to make a nice painted whistle the next day, he just got the plain unpainted version to take home. Altogether, just kind of a flop as a place. The city is full of opportunity. And there are camps throughout the city that do interesting things. It seems this YMCA.... is not one of them. Update: I received a response from them. An unknown representative asked me to 'contact' them with more information and that they are very eager to respond and improve their services, EXCEPT..... (1) they don't provide a contact person or number, except "Vanderbilt YMCA Team" (go team!); (2) the response is perfectly generic and does not even show that they read the critical review but asks for "specific details" (-itself a sign they don't read -anyone doubt I was ?specific?") (3) generally, seems about as insincere and mindless as one could expect. (4) Originally I gave them 2 stars, we're now down to one. Anyone agree? (5) They told me they were sorry and asked me for more information -but I had provided all of this as a critique. Isn't this detailed enough?
Herman Leon Fortson III
The guest services associate by the name of Winny provided amazing service !!! Her professionalism & guidance was key during the curation process of membership commencement. Gratitudes for the company director Paul as well as !!! Thanks again for onboarding me into the facility !!! Thank you Team YMCA !!
Lantie Foster
August 22nd, 198*, my first night in NYC ever. I arrived at this Y in a stretch black limo(no lies) and stayed for 1 month as there was no student housing left at FIT and the Y rented out rooms to some college students. I arrived in the lobby and rang the desk bell for help w/my luggage. Yah, no help. (I was a clueless Cali girl)The price was $400 per month for a room which was about 4'x 8". There was a twin bed, a tiny desk w/a chair and 1 small tall dresser. The room was so narrow, the chair did not fit between the bed and the desk. I piled up my 9 pieces of luggage on top of the dresser to the ceiling. There was 1 payphone on the floor (creepy men in bathrobes would stand and stare at me on the tel) and a shared unisex shower/bathroom. Shower did not lock and I was worried every time using it. I cried a lil' every week but would not tell my parents I was scared staying there. I was not going to leave NY. A few weeks later I met another college student in the Y's weight room that had previously stayed there. Mark from Irvine Calif. Mark said, "Hey, we are looking for another roommate, come over and meet everyone" Within a week, I moved into Mark's huge 3,000 sq. ft loft w/5 of his other college friends down in Wall Street. We are all mostly still friends to this day. Whenever I pass by the Vanderbuilt on 47th today, I smile and think of Mark..:) R.I.P. Mark, I miss and love you..xxx ~Love your NYC sister
Albina Albina
The overall experience was pretty well. The room was clean and they were changing the towels every day. We went in November and the weather was very cold but in our room we had a heater which was working well. Sometimes it was even too hot in the room. There are 2 showers and restrooms in each floor and we never had any problem with it. Now the cons. The hotel staff seemed a little bit unorganized and not professional. The rooms don’t have safety boxes, so if you want to leave your documents, you can leave them at the administrative desk where they have a small safety box, but they won’t let you to take it and you will need to disturb the staff every time you want to put in and out your stuff. And the last one, they charge 2$ for a piece of luggage to look after it after your check out.
How to reach Vanderbilt YMCA
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Why Vanderbilt YMCA may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Vanderbilt YMCA with your friends?
If you are searching for a welcoming spot to gather with friends, Vanderbilt YMCA offers an inviting environment that fosters community and active engagement. Located conveniently in New York City’s Midtown East, this YMCA branch balances the energy of a vibrant urban center with a place designed for wellness, health, and social connection. With a 3.4 rating based on 500 reviews, Vanderbilt YMCA represents a hub where groups can enjoy activities together while improving physical fitness and well-being. The facility’s diverse offerings, including group exercise classes, indoor pools, and wellness programs encourage camaraderie and shared experiences. Gathering here means you’re not just meeting friends; you’re participating together in activities that strengthen bonds, promote healthy habits, and provide relaxation amid the urban pace. It’s a venue that supports both high energy and downtime, making it ideal for groups with varied interests and fitness levels. The combination of facilities and programs makes Vanderbilt YMCA a perfect rallying point, whether you want to sweat it out, unwind, or just share time in a positive, supportive setting.
What activities can you enjoy at Vanderbilt YMCA?
Vanderbilt YMCA hosts a broad range of activities tailored for individuals and groups alike, offering a dynamic and versatile setting for your meetups. One of the standout features is its indoor group exercise classes, which are open to all members and perfect for friends wanting to try something new or stay consistent with their workouts. These classes range from strength training to yoga and cycling, catering to various intensity levels and interests. The facility also includes an indoor swimming pool, a sought-after amenity ideal for group lap swimming, water aerobics, or casual swim sessions, providing a refreshing way to exercise and socialize. Beyond physical workouts, Vanderbilt YMCA is equipped with cardio and machine weights areas, supporting independent training when friends want to focus on personal goals. In addition to fitness, the YMCA fosters community through organized events and wellness programs, making it more than just a gym — it’s a place where friends can connect on multiple levels.
Why is Vanderbilt YMCA perfect for a group meetup?
Vanderbilt YMCA is especially suitable for groups thanks to its flexible spaces and inclusive atmosphere. The facility’s schedule supports both early risers and evening exercisers, with hours stretching from early morning until 9 PM on weekdays and comfortable weekend timings. This flexibility means groups can plan meetups that fit everyone’s commitments. The YMCA’s community locker rooms and lounge areas also provide space to relax and chat before or after activities, encouraging social interaction and deeper connections. The range of group classes simplifies coordination because friends can participate in the same session, sharing the workout experience. For larger gatherings or special occasions, the YMCA community areas can sometimes accommodate group events or meetups, ensuring a comfortable environment where everyone feels welcome. The blend of fitness, wellness, and community programs combined with supportive staff further enhances the group experience.
What facilities does Vanderbilt YMCA offer to enhance your experience?
The Vanderbilt YMCA is designed with a variety of facilities to make your visit comfortable and productive. Members have access to weight machine areas, free weights, and cardio equipment, allowing everyone in your group to follow their preferred fitness routine. The indoor cycling studio is a great feature for high-energy enthusiasts, offering a structured space for spin classes that can be exciting for groups to join together. The swimming pool area provides not only fitness opportunities but also a relaxing atmosphere to cool down and socialize. Additionally, changing rooms and lockers ensure convenience and security for your belongings, so you can focus fully on your activities. The YMCA’s clean, well-maintained spaces are conducive to both workout intensity and relaxation, blending functionality with comfort.
How does Vanderbilt YMCA promote community and wellness for groups?
More than a gym, Vanderbilt YMCA embodies the mission of promoting community health and connection. Offering unlimited group exercise classes encourages members to engage regularly with others, building friendships and accountability. The YMCA also runs wellness programs that support overall well-being, including nutrition guidance, mental health resources, and family-friendly activities that groups can attend together. These shared experiences empower groups to motivate each other and cultivate a supportive environment beyond physical fitness. By hosting seasonal events and youth programs, the YMCA creates opportunities for diverse gatherings that can strengthen community ties. The staff’s welcoming approach and diverse program offerings make it an inclusive space where everyone feels empowered and inspired to thrive collectively.
What are the operating hours and accessibility options at Vanderbilt YMCA?
Vanderbilt YMCA maintains hours that accommodate a variety of schedules, which is crucial when organizing group meetups. The facility is open Monday through Friday from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and on weekends from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. These extended hours offer flexibility to meet before or after work or school, including morning energizers and evening wind-downs with friends. The central location in Manhattan is accessible by public transportation, making it easy for everyone in your group to reach without hassle. Accessibility inside the building complies with standards to support all members, including those with disabilities. This thoughtful scheduling and location access greatly enhance the feasibility and enjoyment of group gatherings at Vanderbilt YMCA.
In summary, Vanderbilt YMCA stands out as a versatile, welcoming, and well-equipped venue for friend and family meetups. Its mix of fitness activities, group classes, quality facilities, and community-driven programs creates an environment where relationships strengthen through shared wellness experiences. Whether your group seeks to energize, relax, or connect with others in a supportive space, rallying at Vanderbilt YMCA is a meaningful and enjoyable choice.