I have to give this place a lot of credit. For starters, it's super clean and well maintained. They are working on updating the facilities and currently they are under construction but seem to be doing this in a way that isn't disruptive to the customers. The front desk staff is super nice and helpful. I may get this name wrong, apologies if I do, Ayesha is the person who I believe assisted me. She gave me a tour of the facility and answered all of my questions. She was helpful, organized, and fast. She also had an incredibly positive attitude which is so appreciated. They have a pool and gym and a daycare. There are classes on the schedule you can take for more than just fitness. Parking isn't bad although it is near the downtown area of Oak Park, so I imagine from time to time it can be tricky. Overall, this is a nice, well run facility. I'm really glad I finally joined. Thanks for the coupon! Makes it even better! read more

Small facility, limited options. DO NOT GO HERE IF YOU SRE A SWIMMER. The pool schedule on the website is completely inaccurate. Member for 3 months. Checked the pool schedule every morning for when it was available. Would get there and pool was closed off. I managed to swim ONCE in a 3 month period. Management is rude and unhelpful read more

They have horrible customer service and instructors, not friendly at all. Not willing to help and they talk down to you when you ask questions. read more

I used to come to the Y it was very dirty. The sun was filthy very bad mold smell. The Jacuzzi had poop floating around in it and I noticed they got rid of it. A lot of people come to this Y because they go to these different programs just to have a free gym membership. I think they should cut that out and improve the Y more and start charging people people that come there most people go there just because it's free not really interested in anything but getting what they can for free read more

If I could give negative stars, I would. This YMCA has gone extremely downhill. Very toxic environment due to management, or should I say specifically because of the self proclaimed "CEO" Phillip Jimenez and second in command Rebecca Bobblet. I have personally witnessed Phillip be verbally abusive and unethically demanding to his staff, and Rebecca being very disrespectful to the staff. Before Phillip took over this YMCA, it was an incredible place. There were actual programs for kids, like several options for Youth Sports, preschool, summer camps. There was an abundance of fitness classes and instructors. The aquatic programs were booming (many instructors, great swim lessons, and even plenty of swim time for adults). Most importantly, there were individual directors and coordinators in charge of these programs and areas. They completely cut all of those positions and Phillip and Rebecca put themselves in charge of all it. It wouldn't surprise me if they gave themselves quite the raise with cutting so many necessary positions that are essential in running a successful YMCA. This is a problem ,because now, they completely and disgustingly overwork the front desk staff, AND this also leads to the negligence of the remaining programs. Which is very clearly happening. From lack of communication to members, to not understanding what members want and need from their YMCA (because they can't have eyes everywhere when their plate is too full...so you can't fix what you don't see and hear). The only programs they have held onto are the diabetes prevention program, a weight loss program, Child Watch (which is only open on Saturdays...not good), swimming lessons (though they struggle with keeping this staffed (I can only assume because of how toxic management is) they even had to cancel lessons for two months straight because of this, and fitness classes...which the fitness classes are also struggling. They only have 3 instructors, well 2 now, I just found out they just got rid of one of the best instructors they have ever had, Maria. She was very popular with the members and everyone really liked her and really enjoyed her classes! She was truly always there for the members, and she knows what she's doing. Such a shame!! Shame on them. Now, I've been there for a while, so them getting rid of her doesn't surprise me at all. They always get rid of their instructors eventually...specifically the ones that get along very well with the members and everyone really likes. Once you start outshining them there, they get rid of you. So they prefer to keep employees that just do what they're told, keep quiet about the toxic environment, and lay low. Maria taught classes on Sundays, which is rare! Now, I was told that they will be live streaming classes on Sunday from inside the gym? Seriously?! I can save myself the trip and just do that in the comfort of my own home!! The only good person left at this YMCA is Kevin. And Anu, the yoga instructor. Which I'm hesitant to even say that, because I don't want them losing their job too. They are both passionate about the members and their job. If they ever lose them, the place would finally crash from the nosedive to the bottom they are currently on. If you are looking for swimming lessons and/or group fitness classes...look elsewhere. There are so many places near and far that are way better and more consistent than this place. Don't give one more dime of your hard earned money to a place that is so truly toxic. I know, I won't! read more

Just okay. No frills. Lately very disappointed with kid swim lessons after an 11 years span of on/off attendance, two kids. Three continuous months of lessons for my child, with no progress since every session reverts back to the beginning with the weakest participants. The lack of actual swimming during class is disappointing. The y has done better in the distant past and should do better with this very valuable program that draws families in. I will say there is one notable instructor, (maybe more) but unfortunately for my child wasn't placed with them. Overall, the facility seems to be in its best shape. Minimal swim times available for adults is another drawback. read more

Is the leader at the park YMCA been changed yet?? Anybody hearing anything? It's well overdue. Again, the previous leader completely dismissed me as a disabled veteran twice. I can tell when I go in there at least three days a week at the temperament of the first floor employees is more collected and in a better disposition. Looking forward to a leader in this role, who is inclusive of all the community, and treats their employees as valued people. Someone who has interpersonal skills, unlike the previous one who could barely smile or hold a conversation with any paying customer. A truism for Natalie me but many of my fellow community folks who use this facility. It's time for someone with a personality leadership skills who is giving and knows what Customer Service is all about, to Take on this valued role. read more

I forgot to mention that they work their staff members like slaves. They've been understaffed since the pandemic, forcing the staff they have to work 7 days a week with no time off. You pretty much have to be on your death bed to get a day off. Then there's the CEO Mr. Jimenez...he is not to be trusted, he likes to spend the company money at an Italian restaurant down the street from the facility. He once attempted to have me buy a bunch of gift cards and send him the numbers scratched off the back of them, so he could get the money. On top of that, he does not care about the residents living there. read more

See all

I really like that I was able to come to a different state and go to the gym for free. That is awesome! This gym has a basement with locker rooms, personal training room, sauna, bathrooms, showers, and access to the indoor pool. The first floor has equipment to work out and office spaces. The second floor has the gym to play basketball, and the third floor has the spin class and indoor track. They have fountains to refill your bottles all over, small towels when you go by the machines and big towels toward the locker rooms. I definitely liked coming here to workout but I would have liked to see more machines for working lower body like an adductor machine. Although I know other workouts to work those muscles. The 20 lbs barbell was missing. The space is smaller than the Y in Jax. But I do like that there is a smaller room in the women's locker room to stretch, use the yoga ball, and they have a few weights. I did love that everyone was pleasant and helpful here. 5 starts for that. Side Note: They also happen to have free coffee, career room with access to computers, conference room, and a room for them to watch your kids. Not a member? Drop in for $11. read more

Four years have past since my first review of this YMCA. I still think it is a excellent place for community building. Great people work here, and Oak Park and surrounding communities are better because of the Y. I am a member that uses the exercise areas (except the pool), locker rooms, and exercise classes. The Y offers more services, but my review is based on what I do. I am sticking with four stars, but the poor facilities are testing my patience. The equipment and space they have are not well maintained. Things don't get fixed on a timely basis even when reported (e.g., it took 3 months to fix the pull-up bar). The heating and cooling system is bad; portions of the exercise areas are often uncomfortable for exercise. The Berwyn YMCA accepts the West Cook County YMCA membership card. When we have time, we go there instead. read more

I joined in March and I couldn't be happier. Good vibes and great equipment. The workout space is well laid out with a lot of natural light. Highly recommended! read more

This YMCA located near both a green and blue line is incredibly clean and well maintained. The staff has constantly been attentive and kind to residence in the neighborhood, going above and beyond quality service. The lockers and spa area have recently been renovated, so they look sparkling (what with great maintenance and all). Both men and women's spas include: a dry sauna, wet sauna (both with timers), a hot tub (with jets & a thermometer), and a nook of spacious vanities with sinks and hairdryers. There are a generous number of gyms in different sizes and with a varying amount of equipment, but most areas contain flatscreen TVs or other amenities. The pool is a bit small, but there are specific lane swimming times you can monopolize if you so choose. This location even has their own special coffee brew they sell you (bean/ground, not sure) by the bag at the front. Looking through the YMCA pamphlet, there seem to be great services and discounts for members and non-members of all ages, including but not limited to: athletic training, athletic therapy/massages, cardio, yoga, etc. There is a daycare near the front (with specific hours and I believe sign-up). If I didn't already have membership with my school gym, I would be in here almost daily. read more

Seriously. I was told by three different people not to bother with this place but i still proceeded giving it the benefit of the doubt. I should have listened. This is becoming a tiring theme in oak park. Shit service. Lack of care and BS excuses. I signed my son up for swimming lessons by following the instructions i was given... to hear back after a month that they don't have any availability. I said we can wait... now 45 days later... i inquire as to whether they can "fit us in"... and now i got a whole new set of procedures. These people DONT care. read more

Been going here for about a year now and seeing 3 stars is kind of sad. This place deserves at least 4 stars as an average so I'm giving 5 stars. There are some really negative reviews mostly based on the buildings appearance. Its a YMCA. It's not going to ever compare to an Xsport or any major gym that you pay $75+ per month plus initiation fees etc. With the price ($80/mo. for my whole family of 3) which includes classes, gym access, pool, weights and cardio - it is so worth it. I don't have small children but the day care also looks nice. Staff here is amazing and very friendly. The Response to Covid has also been above expectations. Everyone must wear a mask and do a temperature check at the door and only every other machine can be used. I'm a little sad that the dumbbells are off limits but I also understand that people won't clean up after themselves so the gym has to take proper precautions. Yes - the building is a bit older and kind of like a maze and the locker rooms are definitely dated. But that's not what I care about. The area where the cardio equipment is looks more of what you would expect from a gym. Listen it comes down to what you care about. If you want a fancy upscale gym and are willing to pay more - then this is not the place for you. If you want access to classes, full basketball court or the pool at a very reasonable price and great staff and a very well cleaned building then it's so worth it. read more

Could be so much better. If someone actually really supervised the fitness area and enforced the fact that this area is for adults, not kids, it would make such a difference. They have nice treadmills, bikes, etc. plus a great strength training area, but about half the times I'm there, I am dodging young kids who are using the area like a playground. The group fitness classes are good, but again, people sometimes bring their kids, which is distracting and annoying (adult classes are listed as being for age 12 and up). Last week I went to a cardio class and a 7-8 year old girl was doing cartwheels in the middle of the class. Need I say more? read more

Update 2017: Had a horrible experience with Early Childhood /preschool. The teacher's neglect exacerbated my child's (very easily managed w/ simple care) allergic condition severely. The teacher LIED time after time. After consulting with program director, nothing changed. Director understood the "teacher" lied & nothing was done. Failure to provide simple hygiene is why we left (for a program that cost 3x as much but is great for my kid), but the preschool itself, I found was basically day care--not good for actual development. If you can't afford anywhere else & your child can take care of itself mostly, this is an option if you're looking for child care. Pulled my kid out over a year ago, but disappointed to see that the woman still is entrusted with the care of children & w/out a supervisor in the classroom. 2015: Tons of New cardio equipment with 2015 remodel. Pool... Hot tub... Free babysitting while you work out. Sweet. Update 10/4: Really enjoying the Y this year. Tried 1 of the 8 (?) new lateral elliptical machines today. The bikes are new too, I think, & there's maybe 11 new treadmills? All have video on demand, CBS TV shows, selected YouTube content. They also started offering towels & fresh fruit upon entry. I was impressed this morning by how hoppin' the gym was. Busy, but not crowded on a Monday morning. Protip: Members get discounted preschool, which includes 1-2 days of swim lessons depending on the days of attendance. Members also get some free classes & discounts on the others. Getting the most for our money this year! read more

A great place for me. Classes are excellent, though sometimes cancelled. Pool is just right for lap swim. Exercise facilities are very good. The staff from front desk, to maintenance, to housekeeping, to teaching staff are excellent. read more

If you can walk here and are a single adult, this is an A-Ok gym. The hours are great --- even on weekends --- but it's a bit pricey at $55/mo for adult membership. However they have scholarships/financial assistance reductions which are based on your previous year tax return. Also, you can check with management and/or sign up for the email newsletter to learn of membership initiation fee discounts and waivers. If you're curious about what the gym offers, do the free tour. I did and that's what convinced me to sign up. I primarily use this gym's upstairs workout room but there are also fitness rooms, basketball courts, pool, computer lab, day care, locker rooms and more. When I stray from the upstairs I definitely get annoyed by the little boys/teenagers walking around to be seen. When I come to the gym, I come to work out and get out. I'm not a swimmer by any means, but the pool here is unimpressive. It's meant for laps. Also, the indoor track is super weak! To complete one mile, you must run over 20 laps. Talk about ridiculous. Pluses of membership here: 1. If you qualify for financial assistance/scholarship, you can get a reduced rate. 2. If you live nearby, you can walk here and avoid locker rooms and parking. 3. Pretty good hours -- including open until 10 p.m. on weekdays 4. If you like cardio --- ellipticals and treadmills --- you shouldn't have a problem getting on one, especially later at night. Additionally, the tvs are HD TVs. On Tuesdays I watch Teen Mom while I ellip. :) 5. You can use your pass here to go to any other YMCA nationwide Minuses 1. It's the Y and family-orientated. Besides adults, there's little kids and teenagers everywhere. 2. Price - So high, but still cheaper than other gyms in the area by about 50%/month. 3. Indoor track sucks. read more

I absolutely do not understand what reviewers are complaining about when they say "don't come at peak times." I have visited at all hours, different days, and never had a problem getting a machine. I usually utilize the treadmill, elliptical, and rowing machines, and have NEVER had to wait for one. I took swimming lessons (for adults!) last summer, and it was fantastic. I am so excited to FINALLY know how to swim and am not scared of the water. The instructor (Molly, I think?) was very pleasant and was able to break our class into smaller groups for the more advanced "I want to be in the deep end!" and the less advanced "I couldn't let go of the wall if my life depended on it." Only issue for me was cleanliness. The pool is kind of gross. Disclaimer: I am a germaphobe. I was more comfortable to be in a swimsuit in public than I was to use that pool, which -if you've seen my floppy body parts- means something. Hence why I now use the Elmhurst YMCA for my pool-related endeavors. But I still use the Oak Park Y for cardio. Love the new equipment and the improvements they are making. I also love the feeling of "community" and the price($50/month) isn't bad either. read more

It's a nice YMCA. It's not fancy, but the equipment is good enough. The pool is pretty clean. The people are friendly. Here's the thing: if you're looking for an ultra-swank experience with high-end amenities, you shld go pay twice as much for FCC or more for a private facility. Part of your membership dues pay for other people to receive housing, training and job experience for those who are struggling. It's a very important social mission. In fact, it's much more important than making sure the walls are freshly painted or the linoleum is new. If your expectations for a gym are pretty minimal, you'll love it here. If you need to be surrounded by staff who suck up to you and lots of fancy equipment... Go somewhere else! If you want to support an important cause that helps a ton of families, please donate to the YMCA or join up as a member. read more

I have been here twice and will never go back again!!! The staff is incredibly rude.. just plain rude. The people at the front desk have the personality of a dead doorknob or an angry pit bull, depending who you get that day (except for one lady but I don't know her name) The workout room is tiny and cramped but gets the job done if you are not picky The pool is DISGUSTING !!! Don't swim in it unless you like swimming with debris in the water. The water looks murky and dirty and seems to lack chlorine. The bathrooms are filthy and stinky. They smell strongly of urine and although the housekeeper throws pine sol on the floor, it does not help much. I went to use the toilet and there was pee on the seat and floor as well. The hot tub is kind of gross as well The place seems a little crowded and noisy but this is the Y, a community center so if you don't like noise, try a quieter place if you can find one I'm a Y member so price-wise I don't complain. I would rather go to a better Y though, this one just plain stinks, literally. read more

Very convenient! Lots of classes! Swimming, spinning and yoga! Love the Oak Park location. Very clean and staff is super friendly and helpful! read more

This is an okay YMCA- not as nice as my previous YMCA in St. Louis. The plus side is I left a comment card that there should be hand sanitizers in the fitness center or as you are leaving and the following week new hand sanitizers were installed. They just reorganized their fitness area and got a bunch new equipment. I love the new elipticals. Overall, it is an improvement. It would be nice if they provided towels or at least the staff help wiping down the equipment. The workers in the childcare center are friendly. Sunday childcare hours would be a big plus. Parking is usually not an issue in the lot. For the price of membership, I still think things can be spruced up a bit to make the YMCA nicer. read more

I love the West Cook YMCA. I have had a family membership for several years, and I originally got it because I have two children in swim lessons. Now, however, I use the walking track, pool, and fantastic ladies locker room with steam room and whirlpool several days a week on my lunch break. I tried several places in the area for swimming lessons before the Y, but this is BY FAR the best place for swim lessons. The teachers are professional, motivating, dedicated, and very kid friendly. I love the YMCA in general, but the aquatics department is by far the strongest department. The director, Kim, is so friendly, attentive, and helpful, and all of her instructors and life guards are fantastic. Huge thumbs up! read more

My husband and I have been members off and on for 30 years and I have seen many incredible improvements (as well as disappointing omissions) made to the YMCA facilities. In all fairness to the negative reviewers, their comments were completely valid at the time they submitted them but now the Y has made many significant changes. The locker rooms are clean and well-maintained and the pool is now consistently CLEAN. After having taken advantage of the excellent family programs while raising our children over the past 30 years, we now enjoy the facilities as seniors and we are proud we decided to rejoin the West Cook YMCA. read more

While this is not a SPA, it is a family orientated fitness center. It offers services to many various types of people. There are issues as all businesses have, but overall you will not find the VALUE for your money ANYWHERE else in the immediate area. For instance, if you decide to get a massage, it's affordable (under $40) for a half hour, AND you get the use of the ENTIRE facility. That includes a full pool, two exercise rooms, a sauna, a steam room, track, basketball court, and more! Plus you get a professional massage! Not a student or someone with less than 3 years experience. read more

I think it's a great place to work out. I mean, it's the YMCA... it doesn't try to market itself as a fancy, chic, metrosexual gym. There are going to be children and other people in the building, because they do much more than provide a gym and workout area for adults. If you're expecting FFC, then you will be disappointed. However, if you just want to go workout for a lower cost, this is definitely the place. They just got new machines and changed the layout. It looks great. They readily give out scholarships and the application process is easy from what I have heard. I like being part of a gym that does community-based work and practices social responsibility. It's not just s gym, it's a community-based organization. I feel like my money is going to a good cause.... I couldn't say that about Xsport or FFC. read more

Very very crowded & very very loud - always. Kids screaming and running around. Was like working out in Grand Central Station. Headphones a MUST but kids will still be running into you in the halls, etc. If you CAN get on a cardio machine after work, you will be 4" from someone sweating hard right next to you - thats WAY too close for me. Over all just NOT what I was looking for in a gym. Parking is tricky also. If this were $20 a month, with no joining fee I would probably say "worth it". But our "special deal" was one year contract for $75/mo for a couples membership PLUS $300 signup fee. WAY overpriced for what you get! Only GOOD time to be here is when the doors open on Sunday morning about 10 or 11 am. It fills up FAST but at least you CAN get a cardio machine and it is not yet stunk up with sweat at that hour. Good luck with that! Go to Oak Park Tennis and Fitness instead...friendly service, great CLEAN facility, not pushed up next to a sweaty stranger all the time in teh carido room, and not like working out in a playground. 4 stars to them. read more

A cramped crazy maze! I am not a member, but I worked out here as a trial. The place is insane. I felt like I was working out in the living room and basement of home that is a childcare too. I was claustrophobic in the weight room, which is nearly smaller than my mom's basement. If there are more than two people in there, it feels crowded. The cardio room is limited compared to most modern gyms. Plus, I don't think I could find the lockers rooms if I tried. This place is really close to home which is important to me, but I just couldn't do it. If you just do cardio; work out at non-peak times; and you live close, you may be able to justify it. Otherwise, I would go elsewhere until they blow this place up and build a new one. read more

West Cook is Great facility! The staff at the front desk is friendly and welcoming. The locker rooms, Handball courts, and exercise equipment areas are clean and bright. There seems to be a continuous process of investment and upgrading. Complimentary towels is a nice plus. It is a great value! read more

Moving popular classes to unpopular times, canceling classes and not telling instructors, no where to complain because they are clearly trying to move the location. This location is shady and needs new management. They are taking advantage of the older crowd in this community. Only problems from this management. YMCA corporate please step in! read more

Not the flashiest gym in Oak Park, but if you're looking for a family-friendly place to work out, look no further. Teens are permitted to work out here! Good selection of equipment and friendly staff who try hard to be accommodating. Could use more free weights and a larger area in which to use them, but space is at a premium in the building. Perhaps most important--it is very clean, especially when compared to other area YMCAs. read more

Wow, surprised at so many bad reviews. I've been a member here for nearly 3 years. Is it a bit expensive? Sure. But, based solely on working out in the main gym, I have little to complain about. Hours are great, they recently revamped things, so it looks nicer. Machines are pretty good, although they do seem to have a problem with machines crapping out regularly. But this place is convenient, and most every worker is really friendly. It does the job. read more

I worked out here for a year, and I still walk by it a few days a week. This place is good, but not exceptional. I think for a YMCA the prices are kinda high, $60+/mth, which is comparable to a lot of gyms in the area. The main problem I had with it the number of cardio machines available (ellipticals and treadmills). It's limited enough that after work most nights, there was always a wait and you would have to sign up and were limited to 30 minutes. It also just felt very crowded as the space was small and they did try to cram in as many machines as possible. They did offer scuba diving which I never took advantage of but looked pretty cool. I never had any problems with the staff. read more

Great place to work out. The staff is friendly. The facilities include weights, an indoor track, cycling, a pool, treadmills, etc.

Been going to this gym recently and I must say I am impressed with the YMCA. Granted, I never expected much from them so I guess anything is better than my previous expectations. Weight area is small, nothing to rave about. The pool seems a little erie and cold but it does its job. What I do like is that they have a nice full court basketball court and then a smaller half size basketball court as well. They also have a track above the basketball court. The personal training area is fantastic! They also have this machine called the Ab Solo, which I have never seen anywhere else and it is just what the doctor ordered for those 6 pack abs! Check it out, you wont be disappointed. Staff is friendly and helpful. read more

The kid's care center could be open on Sundays and after noon on Satrudays. That would help out a lot. A cheap solution, tho.

The Y monthly is pretty expensive but I just sign up for 1 class every session. For the most partthe facility is clean the faculty has always been helpful and the equipment works well. read more

The place has gone totally in reverse from the last time I was here a few years ago. In a bad way. Check around ask questions visit other places to compare. See if you can get a tour. read more

If only I could choose zero stars! Worst place ever! Recently divorced, my kids live in Oak Park but I do not. Needed to find something for the three of us to do during my weekday visits with them. The YMCA was the best idea, or so I thought. I pre-paid for 3 months membership. My boys and I went there 3 times. We were kicked off the basketball court twice and kicked out of a smaller gym once, all because of other scheduled program. We were denied access to the racket and handball courts because the racket and handball club pays extra to block off the courts to the rest of the members of the Y. Even though there wasn't anybody using the courts I was still told my boys and I could NOT use the court. You are not allowed to simply use the facility when your schedule allows. You must sign up with one of there programs, at a ridiculous price, and then you can use the facility. Swimming pool is not even an option. There was one room in particular that was a lot of fun and almost worth the membership fee. My boys and I were able to use this room during our tour before joining. However this room called the Y-box, is now closed. Thank you YMCA for raising the hopes of my kids and then shattering them with your inability to run a facility with any competence what-so-ever. I don't believe there is reason to have all courts blocked off at the same time. This derelict ideology leaves the rest of us with a useless membership. read more