Leadership inexplicably refuses to resume towel service or reopen the sauna, despite the fact that other Chicago-areas YMCAs, hotels, gyms have (even over a year ago). Over two years into COVID, requires vaccination, but won't provide towels or reopen sauna. Reduced membership fees? Of course not.

Staff is unfriendly, rate is way overpriced, and this Y completely caters to families with kids. Adult fitness is not a priority. They allow troubled youth in the gym, some of whom walk around creating a nuisance and creating an environment that feels unsafe. We have moved on to Lifetime Fitness. The McGaw Y needs to drop the political agenda, and realize that the Y is a place for health and wellness. This is not at all what this organization is about. One look at the desk staff will tell you that.

I saw a comment that she wouldn’t want to take her children to this Y and I cannot imagine why not this is the best Y in this whole Chicagoland area it is always clean people are friendly it’s got everything you need It serves the youth in North Chicago and Evanston it’s fantastic. The staff is very helpful. They clean and paint every year. the equipment they’re always replacing equipment with new and better equipment I’ve In the member here for about 12 years I have gone several Otherwise in the city and I love this why I would never want to go anywhere else

Horrible Communication. I cancelled my membership in March 2022 and they still been taking money out of my account and it's July 2022. Beware, Please go in person and cancel your membership unless unknowingly they will be taking money out of your account.

McGaw YMCA has provided a safe healthy space for three generations of my family — My father, myself, and now, my son. We appreciate the fitness center, the pool, Camp Echo, and MYST swim team. The staff at McGaw YMCA are courteous and positive. The building is clean and comfortable. Join the Y and be part of this positive community.

Would definitely recommend if you're looking for a gym with lots of offerings in Evanston! I've been a member for a few years now, and can tell that the Y cares about its members and is always looking to improve. Great class offerings, facilities and equipment are always clean and in good condition, never too crowded, lots of workout space options. The people who work here are friendly and helpful. I also really appreciate that they offer membership rates based on your income, that has helped me maintain a membership for so long.

The team are always kind and ready to help. Love the yoga and gym classes!

This place has all the things you need for community and health. The trainers and massage therapists are excellent, the nutritionist has a wonderful manner and great knowledge. Being a part of their mission is the best icing on the cake.

Don’t even know where to begin to be honest but just to start out and be great full for such an amazing organization (The McGaw Ymca) for all the work they do, they literally have saved my life, from the men’s residence to the wellness and fitness and all the way to children & care education and that’s just to name a few… thank you so much from the bottom of my heart YMCA.

From the start, McGaw membership services was so accommodating and helpful, and anyone I speak to at the front desk is pleasant and considerate. The great incentives, events, variety of activities, range of ages, information provided, and amount of equipment are all so great. Their personal trainers listen to your needs thoroughly, aren't pushy, and I've never felt so comfortable in a personal training environment. The gym isn't overcrowded at all. The building is aged, but that doesn't affect my workout. Glad I joined!

It’s membership appreciation week. I’ve met another member and talked to a staff member, both of whom have recommended classes to me. I swim 4 to 5 days a week. It’s great to reserve my own lane and swim fro 30 minutes to an hour. All the staff are amazing: friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic. This is a great place!

It’s a great experience. I have 3 kids and it is wonderful for the family! There is family gym and swim time. Everyone is friendly. It really feels like home. Everything is clean. Additionally for me… the gym equipment is wonderful and I absolutely love the steam room!

As a new member and staff at McGaw YMCA, I couldn't be happier with my choice! From day one, the staff has been incredibly welcoming and supportive. They took the time to show me around, explain the facilities, and introduce me to various programs. Being a newbie, I'm impressed with the wide range of classes and equipment available. The cleanliness and organization are top-notch. What's truly special is the sense of community; it's like joining a big fitness family. I'm looking forward to my journey here and would encourage others to join this wonderful YMCA for a fantastic fitness experience! Did I mention the two pools!!!! Don't hesitate you'll meet plenty of friends. So come on in and let's get into it!

I am grateful for welcoming smiles at the service desk, our class instructors, and my fellow enthusiasts! Since attending more regularly, I've been meeting new friends and feel supported in making healthy choices. I value the variety of resources offered and love my Y family!

The McGaw YMCA is great! I enjoy working out during the day and can always find an open elliptical. I love the variety of classes at all levels. Visiting the Y makes me feel a part of the community. Our kids have learned how to swim, enjoy camp opportunities and view the Y as a part of their lives. We hope to be members for many years to come.

McGraw YMCA I’d a great place to workout. I never feel judged and everyone is always so welcoming. The trainers in the wellness center are also kind and I’m never afraid to ask questions. Glad to be a part of this community!

I’ve been to a lot of local gyms and I love the Y for multiple reasons. It’s family friendly, there are classes for all body types and ages, and it’s a welcoming community. The staff are all so friendly. I mostly use the gym to workout but my daughter’s have taken swim and I intend to take some yoga classes and swim as well. Very excited to be a part of this community gym.

Very helpful, friendly staff who truly care about the health and fitness of the community. Fitness areas have been upgraded and well-maintained. Locker rooms and sauna/steam facilities could use some updating. Classes are fun and engaging.

We love our Y! This is the real Evanston country club. We come here to see our community, work out, and volunteer. We love other Y families and the staff. Our kids have loved the various levels of the swim program, starting from baby to competitive swim team. The aquatics program is terrific for a wide variety of swimming commitments and the staff is dedicated to coaching a lifetime love of swimming and water safety. Our oldest is looking forward to Camp Echo this summer. Really, no complaints— the building is old, but they do their best to manage repairs and keep up.

Community is not an empty buzzword here; it's real and you can feel it. I mainly attend group exercise classes and the instructors are knowledgeable and create a fun and welcoming environment. The members are great, too--I've met some really nice people and had uplifting chats in the classes, locker room, etc. I've always had friendly service at the front desk, as well. If you like to swim, the pools are fabulous and I appreciate the reservation system so you never have to wait for a lane. Shoutout to the lifeguards for being awesome! Finally, there are are a good amount of group classes offered online, so if you want to squeeze in a quick yoga class, for example, you can do it from home!

The pools are wonderful and include a warm as well as a cooler lap pool. Classes are terrific, lots of energy with instructors held to a very high standard. We are into our the third generation in the family enjoying the swim lessons, Camp Echo and adult activities and classes. This is the place for improving one’s Mind and Body!

The YMCA is an important part of my week and that of many people I meet there. Excellent instructors, staff, members. It has a warm and inviting atmosphere. Staff is lovely. It adds a social dimension to life, as well as helping one keep fit. We are fortunate to have the Y in our community for the diversity of lives it offers a person, as well as its programs. Also , thank you for maintaining so well such a lovely building and facilities.

I have never belonged to a YMCA before. What a great place. I just took my first class 'Aqua Fit'. Those golden gals made my day. They invited me to other classes too. Wonderful people. Excited to try more.

Gym is well-equipped, lots of free classes, 2 swimming pools, friendly staff, good vibe. I made friends at the Y.

I grew up going to this YMCA and now have been back as a member with my family for years as an adult. It is not as updated or fancy as some other gyms- they are always making improvements, though- but it is extremely community and family oriented. My kids love the swimming lessons and there is a kids club they beg to go to (we get two free hours a day, although currently their hours are a little limited). My husband does lap swim regularly and I take Zumba every week and used to regularly do Body Pump until they changed the schedule. My 7 yr old is in a basketball league right now and when I do Zumba on the weekends there is family gym with a bounce house and tons of sports equipment and soft climbing equipment for the littles. There’s also a running track, a couple weight lifting rooms, multiple locker rooms, spin facilities. All the staff is great. This is such a gem in our community.

This is a great ymca, especially for families. We have been members for years. In fact, we continued using it during Covid. The facilities are first rate. The staff from the front desk to those that wipe down every inch of the Y are hardworking, kind, and responsive. It’s hard to imagine a better YMCA.

Joined in 2012 for the dance fitness classes and still going strong 11 years later. This is a dynamic place — they often introduce new classes and equipment. Most members join for the cardio, but stay for the camaraderie and confidantes found here. It is a kind and supportive environment. Our motto in dance is “just move!” … who cares if we know the steps! lol …and it’s FUN. 4 stars only because I wish classes would return to 55 minutes (versus the Covid 45).

I’m a frequent flyer to the group exercise programs, especially the classes in Zumba, Les Mills strength training, and yoga. For no additional cost than membership, you get top flight instruction and a joyful and supportive and encouraging atmosphere. The classes are open level, for all people. Kristy or Rhonda for Zumba , Courtney or Marjorie for yoga, Lynn for strength training. Now you know my idea of a perfect week!

Not a bad YMCA. There are new updatedsection that meet so old historic sections. Parking for the Y is very difficult, so beware.