Burr Gymnasium

- Washington, DC 20001

Introduction / Overview

In the heart of Washington, DC, Burr Gymnasium stands as a historic and impressive sports and fitness complex on the campus of Howard University. Affectionately known as "The Burr," this facility is far more than just a gym; it's a hub of athletic excellence, community spirit, and rich history. As the home to the Howard University Bison men's and women's basketball teams and women's volleyball team, the gymnasium has a storied past and a vibrant present. It serves as a multi-purpose arena that not only hosts exciting college sports events but also provides a vital resource for students, athletes, and the broader community. The facility's design and amenities are focused on supporting a wide range of physical activities and sports, from competitive matches to recreational fitness. What truly sets Burr Gymnasium apart is the palpable sense of history and community that permeates the space. As one of the university's best assets, the people associated with the gym are described as professional and highly welcoming, creating an atmosphere that makes visitors feel impressed and at ease. Despite some minor cosmetic imperfections, the facility is considered top-notch, with an immaculate sound system and a feeling of historical significance that shines brightly. For anyone in the District of Columbia looking for a place that combines sports, fitness, and a strong community vibe, Burr Gymnasium is a unique and compelling option that embodies the spirit of Howard University.

Location and Accessibility

Burr Gymnasium is a prominent landmark on the campus of Howard University, located in Washington, DC 20001. The facility’s official address is 2400 6th St NW, Washington, DC 20059, placing it in a well-known area of the city. As a central part of the Howard University campus, it is well-integrated into the local community and is relatively easy to access. While information on specific parking options for general visitors may vary depending on the event, the gymnasium is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that all visitors have convenient access. Furthermore, the facility features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, making it a welcoming and inclusive space for individuals with mobility challenges. Public transportation is a viable option for reaching the gym, with various bus routes serving the area around the university. This accessibility is a key factor for event-goers and community members who wish to attend a game or utilize the facilities. The location within the city's NW quadrant places it in a culturally rich and dynamic neighborhood, contributing to the overall vibrant experience of visiting the campus and the gymnasium. Its position as a historical and cultural center makes it more than just a place to work out or watch a game; it is a destination rooted in the heart of Washington, DC.

Services Offered

• Basketball Court: As a multi-purpose arena, Burr Gymnasium features a main gym with a hardwood court. This court is the home of the Howard University Bison men's and women's basketball teams and women's volleyball team, hosting regular season games and other athletic events. There are also separate practice venues for basketball, providing dedicated space for training and team preparation.
• Volleyball Court: In addition to basketball, the gymnasium is well-equipped with volleyball posts and equipment, supporting the university's women's volleyball team. This multi-sport use of the main arena highlights its versatility and functionality as a premier athletic facility.
• Swimming Pool (Natatorium): Burr Gymnasium houses a natatorium, which includes a swimming pool. This facility is noted for being one of the best some visitors have been to, with great seating and a fun atmosphere. The pool is home to the men's and women's swimming and diving teams and also hosts gym classes, offering a fantastic resource for aquatic activities.
• On-Campus Workout Facility ("The Pulse"): The building also contains a 5,000-square-foot private on-campus workout facility known as "The Pulse." This space is described as a mirrored room with mounted televisions, a stereo, drinking fountains, and locker rooms with showers. It includes essential fitness equipment such as an elliptical machine, universal machine, treadmill, rowing machine, stationary bikes, incline bench, and free weights, providing a comprehensive space for cardio and strength training.
• Gym Classes: Beyond team sports, the gymnasium hosts various gym classes, which can include activities ranging from martial arts to swimming, further expanding its utility as a recreational and instructional facility.

Features / Highlights

• Rich History and Legacy: Burr Gymnasium is a landmark with a rich history, a fact that is immediately apparent to visitors. Its role as a key part of Howard University, a historically black university, gives it a special significance that goes beyond a typical sports venue.
• Welcoming and Professional People: The people at the university, including staff and students, are consistently praised for being professional and very welcoming. This highly positive atmosphere is a major highlight, making every visitor feel valued and impressed.
• Impressive Facilities: Despite minor cosmetic issues like rain stains, the facility itself is considered "top-notch." The main gym, with its immaculate sound system, and the natatorium, which has been called "the best," demonstrate the high quality of the amenities available.
• Accessibility Features: The gymnasium is equipped with key accessibility features, including a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking lot, and restroom. This ensures that the venue is accommodating to all members of the community and visitors with varying needs.
• Multi-Purpose Venue: The versatility of Burr Gymnasium is a significant feature. It serves as a home for multiple sports teams and also hosts a variety of gym classes and community events, showcasing its importance as a central hub for campus life and beyond.
• Community-Oriented Atmosphere: The fun and supportive atmosphere, particularly within the natatorium and during events, is a key draw. It's a place where people can come together to enjoy sports, work out, and connect with a shared sense of community.

Contact Information

As a key part of Howard University, Burr Gymnasium's contact information is connected to the university. To inquire about events or facilities, you can use the following details:

Address: Washington, DC 20001, USA

What is worth choosing

For those in the District of Columbia, choosing Burr Gymnasium means embracing a space with a deep sense of history, community, and purpose. While it may not operate like a conventional commercial gym, it offers a unique and enriching experience that is worth considering. The true value of Burr Gymnasium lies in its role as a multi-faceted hub. It's a place where you can not only witness the excitement of collegiate sports but also find opportunities for personal fitness and recreation. The on-site workout facility, "The Pulse," provides a dedicated space with a variety of equipment for a comprehensive workout. The swimming pool, praised by visitors for its quality and atmosphere, is a significant asset for those interested in aquatic exercise. Beyond the physical amenities, the most compelling reason to choose Burr Gymnasium is the people. The consistently positive reviews about the professionalism and warmth of the staff and the welcoming atmosphere make it a place where you feel valued and supported. This is in stark contrast to the often impersonal experience of larger, more commercial fitness centers. Furthermore, its rich history as a part of Howard University adds a layer of cultural significance that you won't find anywhere else. By choosing to engage with Burr Gymnasium, whether for a game, a swim, or a workout, you are choosing to support a historic institution and become a part of a community that is professional, welcoming, and passionate about sports and wellness. It’s a choice that offers more than just a workout; it offers a connection to a legacy.

Burr Gymnasium

Washington, DC 20001, USA