The world's largest YMCA just opened its doors in Calgary (PHOTOS)
The Brookfield Residential YMCA in Seton has finally opened its doors, meaning that Calgarians can now go check out the largest YMCA facility in the entire world.
Taking the title once held by the recently completed Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge (sitting just 50 km away in northwest Calgary), the Brookfield Residential officially opened today, allowing members full access to the fitness areas, art studios, gymnasium, theatre, community rooms, and two NHL-sized ice rinks.
See also
- This 'garden dome' pop-up dinner is coming to YYC this May (VIDEO)
- Calgary's new over-the-top burger joint officially opens January 14
- These were the friendliest places in Canada during 2018
“I’m very excited about the opening of this outstanding hub for the community,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi in a release from the City of Calgary.
“We knew that there was a gap in service delivery in areas like Seton where the population is growing rapidly, and this is a tremendous response to that need. The Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton will be providing excellent leisure, recreational and community amenities for generations of Calgarians to come.”
View this post on Instagram
Construction of the YMCA began all the way back in 2016, and after over two years of work, $193 million, and some serious designing and planning on the part of the city, the building is finally open for business.
…Well, most of it is, anyway. Some construction delays have caused the aquatics section of the facility to remain closed until March 1, though when it does open Calgarians will be able to enjoy the 10 lane competition pool, diving springboards, water park, lazy river, slides, hot tubs, steam room, and surfing simulator in all their glory.
Until then, members will just have to settle for the wide variety of other amenities offered, including the Calgary Public Library’s 21st location, situated right inside the new YMCA.
“The Library is thrilled to be opening its 21st location in Seton,” said Bill Ptacek, CEO of the Calgary Public Library, in the release.
“The features and programs at this library directly reflect this growing and vibrant community. From program spaces, to meeting rooms, to fresh collections, and a wonderful new children’s area – the Seton Library is a space for connection, collaboration and discovery.”
The library will also include the launch of the Hopewell Early Learning Centre, which inspires early learning for children in Calgary and has been built around a decommissioned Alouette III helicopter.
The official opening of the centre will be held on Saturday, January 19 from 10 am to 1 pm.
Here’s a look at some of the other notable additions to the largest YMCA in the world:
NHL-sized ice rink
View this post on Instagram
Sure, Calgary may have a few ponds to skate on in the winter, but when it comes to playing a true game of puck, there’s no better ice than an NHL-sized rink.
The two rinks will be available for rental from $125 to $250 per hour, so if you pool enough players together, you’re in for the game of a lifetime.
Art Space
Arts and/or crafts can be completed at the two art-making spaces. Keep in mind that one is designated for “wet” art and activities, and the other for “dry.” Please do not get the two mixed up, or there might be quite the mess on your hands (and the walls, and the floors, and wherever else).
Aquatic Centres
View this post on Instagram
Brookfield Residential YMCA boasts a wide variety of pools, tubs, and water-based fun, including (but not at all limited to) a diver tower, a leisure pool, a 10-lane competition pool, two water slides, two hot tubs, a steam room, and the highly-anticipated Flowrider — a surfing and bodyboard simulator.
Theatre
Coming to the Y doesn’t necessarily mean you need to bring your workout gear or swim shorts. This one will also hold a 250-seat theatre that will act as a multi-functional performance and rehearsal space.
Gymnasium
View this post on Instagram
The YMCA will be home of not one, not two, but three full basketball gymnasiums, which will be used for basketball, volleyball, badminton, and pickleball.
Each gym will have its own scoreboard to make sure everyone knows who the winner is at the end of the “friendly” pick-up games.
Climbing Wall
No need to head out to the Rocky Mountains to find something fun to climb, because there will be a custom indoor climbing wall with auto-belay systems.
Probably the most exciting heart-pounding way of getting a sweat going.
Fitness Centre, Running Track, and Studios
View this post on Instagram
This is not a bad place to attempt that New Year’s Resolution.
Outfitted with over 60 pieces of cardio equipment, free weights, cable machines, and basically anything else you’d find at a state-of-the-art workout facility, the fitness centre even includes a westward facing view of the Rocky Mountains.
If hitting the treadmill isn’t quite your style, there’s also a three-lane, 200-metre indoor track that includes an 80-metre sprint straight.
Spinning, yoga, and other cardio classes will be held in the two dedicated fitness studios.
Library
Anyone hoping to curl up around a good book after a swim will be able to do so at the Seton Library, which will be operated by Calgary Public Library.
It may not be quite as big and beautiful as the New Central Library, but it’s definitely going to be newer!
Memberships are already for sale for the brand new YMCA and can be purchased at the organization’s website.
Follow Channels and Categories