Austin Recreation Center
Your Ultimate Guide to Fitness and Fun
Austin Recreation Center has been a central hub for sports and recreational activities in the city for almost a century. Established as the privately owned Austin Athletic Club in 1923 by William T. Caswell, the center transitioned into public ownership in 1931 when Mr. Caswell sold it to the City of Austin. The facility was officially renamed to the Austin Recreation Center in 1970, reflecting its broader role in the community beyond just athletics.
The center operates under the Austin Parks and Recreation Department. This department not only maintains and protects parkland and trails, but also offers an array of sports, recreational, educational enrichment, arts programs, cultural opportunities, nature, and aquatic activities for Austinites.
Overview of Austin Recreation Center
Facilities and Amenities
The two recreation centers in Austin offer a wide variety of facilities and amenities to cater to the diverse interests of the community. Year-round activities, events, and classes are available for both children and adults, ensuring that there are opportunities for everyone to engage in recreational pursuits.
Facilities available at the Austin Recreation Center include:
Indoor gymnasium
Multipurpose rooms
Fitness center
Sports fields
Locker rooms
Additionally, the center offers various programs and activities such as arts and crafts, dance, sports, and fitness instruction to promote an active lifestyle and encourage a sense of community.
Youth Programs
The Austin Recreation Center offers a variety of youth and teen programs that focus on sports, arts, and other activities. One of the popular programs includes youth karate, where participants can learn self-defence and discipline. Flag football is another popular choice at the center. They also provide after school programs that feature a mix of healthy snacks, active play, enrichment, and homework help, available Monday to Friday from 2:45-6:00pm, excluding city and school holidays.
Kids interested in sports can also join volleyball leagues, which are managed by Capital City Athletics. In addition, there are various arts and events for children and teenagers to enrich their creative skills and promote their talents.
Adult Programs
For adults, there are numerous classes and programs tailored to various interests. The Austin Recreation Center hosts Chen-style Tai Chi (Taijiquan) for those looking to improve their movement and relaxation through this ancient martial art. Participants can also enjoy open-play badminton, providing a fun and engaging experience for adults of all skill levels.
The center is also home to the Austin Philosophy Discussion Group (APDG) and the Weavers and Spinners Society of Austin, catering to those with intellectual and crafts-oriented interests. Sports enthusiasts can join the Austin Shotokan Karate classes and the Austin Sports and Social Club for a well-rounded and engaging experience.
Senior Programs
The Austin Recreation Center is dedicated to offering senior programs that cater to individuals aged 50 and above. These programs focus on promoting healthy and active lifestyles through recreational and educational activities. Some examples include Jazzercise and 50+ Programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department.
Indoor Sports Facilities
The Austin Recreation Center offers a variety of indoor sports facilities to cater to a wide range of interests and physical abilities. At the heart of the center is the gymnasium, featuring six basketball goals and easily convertible volleyball courts. The sport center and gym is a perfect place to engage in friendly competition while promoting sportsmanship and staying active.
In addition, the center holds other sports facilities such as courts for pickleball, table tennis, handball, racquetball, and wallyball, ensuring the center houses a diverse array of activities for both beginners and more experienced players.
Fitness Classes
Along with traditional sports, the Austin Recreation Center provides various fitness classes aimed at improving physical fitness and overall well-being. Some of these free classes include:
Chen Tai Chi
Jazzercise
Shotokan Karate
Wellness Programs
The Austin Recreation Center also focuses on catering to different age groups and fitness levels, by offering programs designed for adults, youths, and seniors. Some of these wellness programs include:
Adult & 50+ Programs
Austin Sports and Social Club
To complement these diverse programs, the center boasts a well-equipped weight room that houses cardiovascular training and weight training equipment, so members can pursue their personal fitness goals at their own pace and gain the benefits of a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Arts and Cultural Activities
Dance and Music
The Austin Recreation Center offers various dance and music programs for the community to enjoy. Among these activities, Jazzercise is a popular choice for those interested in a fun and energetic workout that combines elements of dance, strength training, and cardio exercises.
Another prominent feature of the center is its 700 sq. ft dance studio equipped with mirrors and bars, which provides an ideal space for dance enthusiasts to practice various dance forms. Additionally, the center hosts a range of music events, programs, and classes, encouraging local talent and fostering a vibrant arts scene.
Creative Arts
The creative arts at the Austin Recreation Center are well-supported and nurtured through a diverse range of activities, workshops, and classes designed for people of all skill levels. From painting and pottery classes to workshops on photography and digital arts, the center continually aims to cover various aspects of arts and creativity.
The Austin Recreation Center also hosts a number of community and special events related to arts and culture, where local artists have the opportunity to showcase their work and engage with fellow artists, fostering a strong sense of community and appreciation for the arts. Whether you are looking for a great place to learn a new skill or further develop your artistic talents, the Austin Recreation Center offers a myriad of opportunities to immerse yourself in the world of arts and cultural activities.
Rental and Facility Information
Facility Rentals
Austin Recreation Center, located at 1301 Shoal Creek, Austin, TX 78701, offers a variety of facilities available for rent. These facilities include a full-size gymnasium, arts and crafts room, meeting room, weight room, and shower facilities. For availability inquiries, contact them at (512)-978-2370.
The center hosts regular Open Play schedules for sports such as pickleball on Mondays and Fridays from 9am-12pm, and badminton on Wednesdays from 5:30pm to 10pm.
Rental Policies and Guides
The Austin Recreation Center has a User Guide and Rental Agreement available to provide renters with detailed facility and grounds rental information. Normal rec center hours available for reservation are as follows:
Sunday: 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Monday - Thursday: 7:30am - 10:30pm
Friday: 7:30am - 9:00pm
Saturday: 8:30am - 3:30pm
Renters may access the center's kitchen/meeting space and various other amenities and facility amenities during their event. Remember to consult the User Guide and Rental Agreement prior to booking for specific terms and conditions, in order to ensure a smooth rental experience.
Community Events Schedule
The Austin Recreation Center hosts various community events and activities throughout the week. These events cater to people of all ages and interests, promoting a sense of community and well-being.
Monday: Open Play Pickleball for beginners and intermediate players from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and advanced players from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Friday: Open Play Badminton from 7:00 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. for players of all skill levels.
In addition to these regular activities during the week, the Center is also home to special interest groups such as the Austin Philosophy Discussion Group (APDG), Austin Shotokan Karate, Chen-style Tai Chi (Taijiquan), Jazzercise, the Weavers and Spinners Society of Austin, etc.
Seasonal Programs
The Austin Recreation Center offers various seasonal sports leagues for youth and adults, providing an opportunity for participants to improve their skills, stay fit, and engage with the community.
Year Round Programs
Year-round activities are provided for all ages, such as youth karate classes and volleyball leagues run through Capital City Athletics.
Seasonal Leagues
Throughout the year, the Center organizes different leagues to accommodate the changing seasons and to cater to different preferences. Some examples include:
Winter Basketball: The Winter Basketball league runs from January to March, with teams typically practicing one evening per week and participating in weekend games.
Open Play
Open Play sessions are designed for individuals who want to participate in recreational activities without the commitment to a league or team. These sessions offer a more relaxed environment for players to practice their skills and enjoy friendly competition. Open Play is available for sports such as badminton and pickleball, as mentioned earlier in the Community Events Schedule section.
The Austin Recreation Center ensures a full calendar of events and programs to cater to the diverse interests and needs of the community. All these activities encourage sportsmanship, fitness, and social interaction, fostering a strong sense of community among the participants.
Affiliated Recreation Centers
There are multiple recreation centers in the city. Some other popular choices are:
Northwest Recreation Center
Located in Northwest Austin, the Northwest Recreation Center offers a variety of adult programs and recreational activities tailored to the community's needs. The center is equipped with an arts and crafts room suitable for creative pursuits and workshops. Additionally, a spacious meeting room is available, catering to social gatherings, club meetings, and special events.
Some of the adult programs provided at the Northwest Recreation Center include various fitness classes, dance lessons, and art workshops. A well-maintained gymnasium also provides sports enthusiasts with a space for exercise and friendly competition.
South Austin Recreation Center
The South Austin Recreation Center is another excellent facility serving the residents of Austin. It features two pools and numerous amenities for both indoor and outdoor activities.
Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the center's tennis courts, while sports lovers can participate in games held at the lighted ball fields. These facilities are perfect for community leagues, pickup games, camps and tournaments.
Inside the center, visitors can find a range of facilities aimed at promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. With various classes and programs on offer, participants can engage in a socially and physically well-rounded experience.
