Ten facilities in Chicago made this list, featuring a mix of community centers, university recreation facilities, athletic clubs, and specialized strength and conditioning gyms. Ratings for these venues range from 4.3 to 5.0 stars. The selection includes large-scale community hubs and focused training centers designed for everything from marathon preparation to CrossFit workouts.
Our rankings are determined by multiplying the star rating by the logarithm of the review count, with no paid placements.
1. The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center Chicago
Located at 1250 W 119th St, this community center holds a 4.5 rating from 1,013 reviews. Users describe the facility as professional, clean, and safe, highlighting five-star customer service and a wide variety of amenities.
2. University Club of Chicago
This Chicago venue earns a 4.7 rating based on 699 reviews. Feedback emphasizes the remarkable attention to detail regarding lighting and acoustics, with reviewers noting the gorgeous rooms and a positive overall feel to the space.
3. UIC Student Recreation Facility
With 633 reviews and a 4.6 rating, this facility is described as a great gym for those who respect the health of their body and soul. It features excellent ventilation and an academic system that supports various types of sport.
4. Midtown Athletic Club
Midtown Athletic Club is located at 2444 N Elston Ave in Chicago. It maintains a 4.3 rating from 844 reviews.
5. Gerald Ratner Athletics Center
This center has a 4.6 rating from 357 reviews. While it is noted for having many treadmills and good squat racks, some users report that the locker rooms are stinky, yoga mats are torn, and cleanliness is mediocre.
6. South Loop Strength & Conditioning
Holding a 4.9 rating from 217 reviews, this gym is recommended for those seeking free weights or a CrossFit WOD. It is located at 645 S Clark St.
7. FFC Gold Coast
FFC Gold Coast is situated at 1030 N Clark St # 600. It has a 4.5 rating based on 348 reviews.
8. EDGE Athletics (the next evolution of EDGE Athlete Lounge)
This facility has a perfect 5.0 rating from 191 reviews. Reviewers mention a supportive community and outstanding workouts, specifically citing a rewarding 16-week marathon training experience with the coaching crew.
9. Jaguar Strength & Conditioning | Chicago Ave CrossFit
Located at 770 N Halsted St Floor P-2, this gym holds a 5.0 rating from 187 reviews. It is described as a kid-friendly environment with immaculate vibes and great coaches.
10. Coalition Strength & Conditioning
Coalition Strength & Conditioning is located at 2051 W Carroll Ave. It has a 5.0 rating from 185 reviews.
How we ranked these
Our list is generated using a formula that balances the average star rating with the total volume of feedback to ensure popular and highly-rated venues rise to the top. For more details, see our methodology.