Full-throated recommendation for this awesome gym. I belonged to this gym when I lived here for a temp project back in '08 - -I'm back in Seattle thru the end of the year, and the first thing I did (even before I rented a furnished apartment) was to go back down here and sign up for a membership. This particular gym is enormous and has all the equipment I need. My exercise routine includes free weights, some machines, and a cardio routine. The weight room is gigantic with all the machines, cables and free weights you could possibly need. The cardio room on the 7th floor is also well-equipped. There's an Olympic-sized pool, racquetball courts, and a full sized basketball court. In the winter you just come here to hang all day, frankly. The Seattle rain depresses me but I found this place to be a huge relief for the winter blues. Here's the most important part (in my opinion). The memberships aren't oversold. The gym never feels overcrowded in the evenings and weekends. I love that. The locker rooms are huge which is an added bonus. I like changing clothes with plenty of space around me. Also, there's a jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and lots of showers (some with shower curtains). Bonus! read more

I love this Y- I am so glad I re-joined. It is a block from my office, and has a hot tub, steam room, and dry sauna, all in the huge womens locker room area. There are plenty of weights, and workout equipment. I havent tried to classes yet and am looking forward to a yoga or pilates class. read more

This is a pretty good gym if you're not interested in swimming. However, if you are , this place sucks. There's only three lanes and the pool it's only open during certain hours. There was times when I was swimming in a lane with four people. The lanes were divided by slow, medium and fast, but this didn't really affect anyones pace. Furthermore, I hated the whirlpool, everybody was naked in it!! However, if you don't mind a lot of nudity, then the locker rooms aren't all that bad. This isn't the worse gym ever. It was actually pretty clean, it was well maintained, the staff were really cool. read more

Zero enforcement of locker room rules. If you want to worry about camera phones capturing you naked, then this is the place to go. Front desk staff is ineffective at communicating and reinforcing rules. There are only two good treadmills and they're always occupied. Lack of towels is always an issue. Even though they bleach them, they still have gross stains. If this is your only nearby option, it's fine. I would look around for anything else though. read more

I have to say, I truly love the locker rooms here. They're hot as hell (connected to a sauna), but SO big. I love being able to find a corner where I dont have to look at people/ can keep people from looking at me. I also love the glorious racquetball courts!! They're not the dowdy old things from my college years - these have movable walls! I dont like the lack of parking, but if you can walk or take the bus (or pay for parking) it's a great location... minus a few people who look like they're just waiting for the right minute to mug you. Seriously, people get mugged around here. Bring a workout buddy. read more

I have been a member for three years. My work out is the March to the YMCA early... That's it and I have lost 90Lbs, holding at 34 waist. Off all HB pressure meds, off sleep apnea machine... & I am homeless. Homeless folks wanna be healthy too! read more

I live in Capitol Hill & work downtown, so I jump between this Y and the one off of Madison. Although the Madison location is closer to my apartment, the downtown Y is so fantastic that I always go there. It is centrally located in a great spot and the people who work there are by far the sweetest and most helpful of other gyms I have belonged to. I have yet to try a class, but there cardio machines have televisions and the spa featuers in the womens locker room are great and well kempt. Cheers! My only complaint is for more cardio machines? read more

I worked at this branch when I was in college, at the (now defunct) "courtesy" desk, as a lifeguard, and as building supervisor. Having been on the inside, I have a greater appreciation for how great the staff is here and how clean the facility (usually) is. It's hard to maintain such a huge, high-traffic space. The rates are reasonable, especially when compared to those of other fitness facilities in the area. The weight and cardio machines are in separate spaces, which is nice if all you want to do is run without hearing the thunk of the Nautilus machines. The weight machines were all recently replaced, too, so the equipment is nice and new. Sure, the fifth floor gets absurdly hot in the summer because there's no A/C there, and the elevators are seemingly always on the fritz (particularly the pool elevator), but the building is old and those are just the unfortunate things you deal with. read more

I felt uncomfortable most of the time, as a hard worker who thinks his money is the best way to invest in the community. I am cancelling my membership because of harassment from the employees. read more

Called and left several messages to manager, Sara Smith, but never got any responses. Canceled my membership but YMCA kept charging me. Refused to take responsibility and didn't give a full refund. Way to ruin my YMCA experience. Will not recommend this location to anyone. read more

Not the most kid friendly place; but not terrible for kids either... The Dale Turner YMCA in Shoreline is more Kid Oriented. For adults: Great facility - tons of weights, machines, speed bag, small-but-cool 1920s-looking pool, raquetball, basketball, great basketball league - all with a diverse, friendly and non-snobby staff... Old, young, all races, both sexes workout here happily without any friction... Everyone does there own thing and nobody bothers anybody. I've been involved with the YMCA since the 1960s (in San Diego and LA)and have been going to the Downtown Seattle YMCA off & on since the mid-1980s... I love the Y and everything it stands for and "is" - The Downtown Y lives up to that standard. read more

Teagan, one of the personal trainers is a great asset to this location. He designs a workout routine specifically for you. He is very knowledgeable about many aspects of physical fitness and is passionate about helping you achieve your fitness goals. He walks the talk. read more

My favorite gym in downtown area. Pros: It's nonprofit meaning that there is no pressure to sign a contract or hire a personal trainer, organized and convenient gym setting, decent swimming pool, friendly atmosphere and staff Cons: The rates are a little high compared to most commercial gyms, the men's locker room & bathrooms are not as clean as they should be, short hours on Saturday's and closed on Sundays, street parking only. read more

I work in the downtown area and started working out here a couple of weeks ago. They were running a special that waived the enrollment fee, which was nice. I was able to receive a small monthly scholarship after providing income information. I think it's a pretty good deal for me and it's very convenient. I am only able to work out at the Downtown Seattle Y on a regular basis, but I do have 12 guest passes that I can use myself at other locations, which works for me. I try to go early before work, which seems to be the busiest time in my short experience. Pros: + Lots of workout equipment and machines so you don't have to wait even during peak hours +Women's locker room is large, so no problems finding a locker or having any moon landings +Steam room, sauna and whirlpool (aka hot tub) in the women's locker room - not having to share it with the dudes is nice (no offense guys. at the Northshore Y, they only have one whirlpool and it's co-ed and right next to the swimming pool; gets super loud as well) +Towels are provided in workout area and outside locker rooms for showers, wiping down machines, wiping sweat, etc. etc. etc. One less thing to have to tote around. +Small track for running, which I haven't used, but a nice option. +Really friendly, helpful staff! +In the women's locker room, there are about 10 private shower stalls w/soap dispensers and towel hooks. There are also a few handicap shower stalls and open shower stalls if you don't mind. +Plastic bags for wet clothes provided in locker rooms, one of my favorite things, haha! +Water fountains around so I don't have to tote around a water bottle +Yoga class I took was fun and un-intimidating - you know how some studios can get if you've done yoga around the city (seriously, calm down w/the lululemon ladies). Cons -I can't quite tell how often they really clean out the hot tub, which makes me a little skeptical to use it nowadays, but Monday's feel safer. I really want to use it all the time, but it weirds me out a little. -I've seen someone testing the locks on the lockers, which I then reported, but makes me double and triple check my lock every time. Once at a different gym (LA Fitness), someone actually cut my lock off, stole my debit card, and then put a new lock on, so I'm a bit paranoid about this. The staff member sounded like she knew who was doing this once I provided a description of the person. I hope that person was spoken to :( I hope to continue working out here. I tend to go all out in the beginning and then stop working out abruptly after a few months, so we'll see. I'm happy so far with the facility and services. read more

I love the YMCA. I took my first swimming lessons at a "Y" when I was a little kid. I joined the downtown YMCA for the first time in 1990. I've always loved the vibe, the dedication of the training and front desk staff, and the fact that part of my membership dollars go for great causes. When I lived outside Seattle for a few years, I joined another YMCA and it only made me homesick for "my" gym back home. Toward the end of last year, the management made a new policy: No naked women in the (women-only) jacuzzi. You must now wear bathing suits. Don't be uncovered in the steam or sauna, either. For the first time in recorded history. I'm told (by staff) that this is due to some women's unhappiness at seeing other women naked (then why would they join a gym where we all undress in relatively open spaces???). I was told it was also a result of sexual incidents that took place in the MEN'S JACUZZI. Are they serious with this? I have used the jacuzzi after my workouts for years. It helps ease a chronic joint/muscular condition. But putting a bathing suit on a sweaty post-workout body? That's just crazy. Not to mention the unnecessary wear and tear on a suit. I'm told the management has received complaints about this policy and that some members have even quit over it. But apparently management has decided they don't mind losing members over it. That's a shame. I'm also told the current management is all about getting new people to join, not in holding on to us old-timers. Because apparently my $90/month and word-of-mouth isn't important. They've also made some terrible decisions in the new layout of cardio equipment (yes, we all like having people on recumbent bikes staring at our butts while we run on the treadmills). The "stretching area" is now directly outside the men's dressing room. Awkward. Again, management seems not to care in the least. As long as new members are signing up! It's always sad to see a business you've loved and trusted go downhill. This one is particularly tragic. I hope they pull out of this before it's too late. read more

They have an awesomely hard pilates class and a separate reformer class now which is like having private lessons. The downside to the reformer is that it's $161 for 7 classes but your core will thank you. After you feel it again. read more

Bathing suits are now required in the locker room Jacuzzis. Anyone know where I can buy a wool bathing suit?

The downtown Y is the largest of all the Y's in Seattle, with the most amenities including a steam room and a more extensive weights section than any of the other area Y's. Unfortunately (or fortunately, sometimes), it also attracts the most people. I've seen all different kinds of humans at this particular Y, from screaming old women in the steam room to mumbling schizophrenics in the squat rack. Sometimes this can be an amusing form of peoplewatching. Other times, it can be a distraction from your workout, or render the spa amenities virtually useless as it is impossible to relax while other patrons are yelling at each other. But I appreciate the Y for what it is. The customer service is excellent. There isn't that corporate feel of other gyms: paying my dues feels more like giving to a charity than lining some fat cat's pockets. Canceling your membership is hassle-free. The diverse clientele can also make for a better environment. For a less crazy Seattle Y experience, the Dale Turner Family and University Family branches are great. read more

I really love this branch of the YMCA. The staff are always incredibly helpful, teaching you how to use the machines if you dont already know. Its a very relaxing atmosphere. No one bothers you if you dont wish. Even on days i had a lot to study id just hoist my books on a treadmill and read while i walk. Or sit in the hottub reading my book on the side. The steam room is incredible; i could sleep in there, but typically many people have the same idea. The pool isnt the biggest, but usually ive never had a problem with many people using it at once. My favorite part of this ymca is the scheduled activities. At first i was scared, i never tried a zumba or a yoga class, but i figured many people thought the same. So i went. Turns out you dont have to know or look like you know what you're doing. And the more i tried new random classes, the more i felt compelled to keep going. I really recommend it, especially if youre someone like me who likes to find excuses not to go to the gym. If you use it correctly, theres no reason to be too busy to better yourself. read more

Probably one of THE BEST camps I have EVER had the pleasure of visiting. I spent only a weekend there but instantly it made an impression. Giant rock climbing wall, zipline, GIANT campground, archery, gun range, marine center, the lodge is nice and friendly, staff was really cool, and the cabins were fantastic! Not to mention that Orcas Island is gorgeous. Throughout the whole camp there is something for everyone to do. I will be trying to come again for a real YMCA-run camp ;) read more

Two thumbs down the women's locker room made me very uncomfortable.. Women in the sauna the stem room and the hot tub all naked no towels around them everybody was just naked. Kinda weird otherwise great gym great workout area.. read more

I love this gym mostly because no creepy guys hit on me when I'm working out And it has a private section just for ladies so no co Ed steam room I love that it's affordable the hours are my least favorite thing I wish they stayed open later and would open on a Sunday its clean most of the staff are friendly and helpful if you have questions about anything they are slow answering emails and they have awesome classes however some of the classes are way way way overpriced for what some of the classes cost trust me you can do it yourself for free at home (￣(エ)￣) read more

The best thing about this facility is the single gender hot tub, steam room and sauna arrangement. When I go, the hot tub is usually either pleasantly unoccupied or lively with asian ladies or the occasional loud east african family. There are old ladies, jesus freaks and PCC-shopping do-gooders in there. The staff is very friendly and the facility spacious and well-equipped. They will never try to sell you anything. It's much more interesting than your average yuppie gym. read more

Got my membership almost a year ago and just as happy. Clean and great employees! Love this Y and come at least 4 times a week!

Love, love, love the downtown Seattle Y. I just moved to DC and this is one of the top things I miss about the Emerald City. There's a downtown Y in the nation's capital, but it's not nearly as clean and well-maintained. Plus, membership costs a lot more..... read more

Great gym - I always really enjoyed coming here. The place is clean and the cardio machines are nice. They have plenty of machines so I never had to wait, even during busy times. Staff are nice and the price is affordable. read more

As a member for a number of years, I have thoroughly been satisfied with the gym, staff and its members. By far the best gym I've ever been too with staff that sincerely care about the safety and interest of its members. Thank you!! read more

Besides being a decent gym, with a swimming pool, sauna and jacuzzi, they are such a great organization with programs for homeless, foster care, and other marginalized youth. They have an alternative HS completion program, job training and placement, street outreach to disaffiliate youth from gangs, tons of after school programs to provide healthy activities, housing programs for homeless young adults, help getting into college, and much much more! Yay Y! read more

I work here and workout here and I am loving it. A little disappointed by the free weights but the history of the building and the amazing people that work and come to the YMCA makes up for that. read more

DOWNTOWN SEATTLE - There's a wet sauna here, and an indoor track around all the cardio and resistance machines. Showers are private and locks for lockers are available at the front desk. Towels are endless! read more

I love the YMCA! Their programs are awesome. But could we be open later on Saturdays and Sundays as well? I live downtown. read more

Have been going to this gym for many years. All the people working there have been nothing but friendly and helpful, David in particular. They always say hi and goodbye when you leave, very personable. Have never heard or seen any disrespect to anybody there. The place is as clean as any gym I have been to, they do their best. I have no problem with the swimsuit or short requirement in the mens sauna, steam and whirlpool. I don't have a problem with nudity but respect others right to sit in a steam room or whirlpool without staring at naked guys. For some reason it feels more hygienic when everyone has shorts on. They even provide plastic bags for your wet shorts. Not sure if people realize that most gyms do not even provide towels. Overall a great place thanks to the people that work there and the community that continues to support it. read more

Excellent customer service! Fred and Anthony are professional and friendly. Love coming here.

Great facility my brother and I have volunteered here for 6 years and have enjoyed every moment!

I 've never written a review before here on Yelp, but I had to say something about a previous post. If someone at the Y decides that putting video surveillance in the locker room for safety is a good idea, be prepared to shut down the place soon. You'll also need to find some excellent lawyers very quickly. Filming members completely nude is not the best of ideas. As far as the robberies, I've never had a problem, but I don't doubt they happen. The answer is simple. DON'T PUT VALUABLE ITEMS IN YOUR LOCKER!! Put your clothes and items that no one would care about, sure, but not valuables. If you're not able think of another place to put them while you're working out, well, you're not thinking hard enough. Oh yeah, I love the Y overall and enjoy playing racquetball and basketball along with lifting weights. read more

Good on the surface, but deeply creepy management. I have rarely regretted trusting my kids to anyone like I did with this camp. The cabin counselors were great, but the management was unbelievable. My kid was involved in two accidents -- once he was accidentally pushed down a hill and hurt his leg, but he told the other kid not to worry, he knew it was an accident. No problem -- part of camp life. Then he accidentally hit a kid who came up behind him in a game of tag when he made a sharp turn. Everyone (my kid, other kid, counselors) thought it was an accident, except somehow a guest who was observing decided to complain. Apparently the guest was a big donor, so the camp ejected my child. Well, first they yelled at him, then promised that he could stay if he signed a contract promising not to hit anyone else. He said sure, he never meant to hit anyone, he'd be glad to sign. Then they kicked him out anyway the next day. My kid was sad, but he said that if they thought he was hitting people, then they should send him home. So I talked to the manager to say that I understood and would pick up my child, because while I knew him they didn't and so maybe they thought it wasn't an accident, but there had been a problem and I wished they hadn't told my kid he could stay when they hadn't actually decided yet -- that was what hurt him the most. He had trusted his counselor. I assumed they had made a mistake and I thought i was helping out so they wouldn't accidentally mislead a kid the next time this happened. Their response? In a problem situation, they always tell the kids they can stay, and THEN decide, because otherwise sometimes the kids get upset. Whoa. And that's when they told me that everyone but this mysterious guest said that the whole thing was an accident. (I realize now that I have no idea about anything except what my kid told me, since that camp flat out told me that they lie about stuff. I stopped the conversation at this point and said I must have misunderstood, but they said no, lying is an important part of this, and it isn't really lying because sometimes they decide to do the thing they told the kid they were doing. But if lying is part of that process, maybe it's also a part of the "talk to parents" process? So maybe everything else they told me was just a story they tell parents?) So the lying thing bothers me a lot, because in my family honest is an important virtue, but the strange guest making this decision bothers me even more. Orkila has non camp people wandering about, and lets them decide when to send kids home? Did this person just not like my kid? I find it rather sinister when strange adults focus on a single child like that. And when the people supposedly taking care of my child enable that? Like I said, I was on their side until this point. If they thought my kid was hitting people, send him home. In this case they were wrong, but mistakes happen. But they happen when the people you put in charge think they happen, not when you take the word of an outsider over the people (the counselors) you put in charge. Or maybe there was no guest, and the camp lied about that but wanted to pretend that no one in the camp was responsible for decided to eject my kid. Again, huh? The funny part? They still put "teaching honesty" and "being honest" as one of their core values. They were also almost an hour late meeting me when I came to pick up my kid, but at that point I wasn't even surprised. I'd never send a kid back, and I worry about the counselors, because if a guest decided he didn't like one of them, it sounds like management would sell them out quickly as well. I wouldn't want my older children working for people like that. Other YMCA camps have different policies, but Orkila is just dangerous. There are lots of great camps out there -- my kids have been very happy at most (they were happy at this one, actually), but at the other camps, you can trust the people responsible for their care. Not at Orkila. read more

Huge facilities and super nice staff. It also seems really clean and I like that they have plenty of towels available and wipes/sprays to clean all of the equipment. My membership here is also cheaper than most other gym options in the area. Also not too crowded and I've yet to encounter any creepy guys leering at me as I work out. read more

I love this place. The staff is super friendly. It's kept quite clean, and usually not packed. They could do with some plate based lifting machines, but otherwise, it's a solid gym. read more

This place is great! Clean facility and wonderful staff. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking at affordable gym options downtown.

The Good: * Price: If you are 29 or younger, it is just $52/month for access to all Seattle YMCAs. * Month-to-month * Join Fee: Cheap compared to most places. For me it would have been $50 but I signed up during a special so it was waived (ask about those). For reference, downtown Gold's Gym join fee for the month to month contract right now is $164! Also, no mid-year facility fee or other nonsense gyms tend to do. * Upfront Payment: YMCA does not make you pay your last month's membership when you sign-up. I never understood why other gyms do this except for make it more expensive for members when they want to cancel. * Lots of equipment, can always find what I am looking for * Not too crowded; never have had to wait for a piece of equipment and I go during peak times * Towels provided * Huge locker room. You never have to stand to the side awkwardly and wait for some butt naked dude to change in order to get to your locker. * Free 7 day pass. The days are not consecutive, so you can say use your free 7 days over the course of 3 months before you actually have to sign-up as a paying member. The Bad: * This location not open Sunday * They oddly don't have any paper towels to wipe down equipment. Also the spray bottles are sporadically placed. As such, I see a ton of people just wipe down their equipment with their used sweat towels, with or without spray. * Showers have ZERO privacy (one big room with a bunch of shower heads). You get used to it after a couple times though. read more