Dana Athletic Center- Bentley University

- 175 Forest St, Waltham, MA 02452

For those in the Massachusetts area seeking a comprehensive and well-equipped fitness facility, the Dana Athletic Center at Bentley University in Waltham offers a wide array of options. This is a university athletic center that extends its services to the wider community through various memberships, providing a unique opportunity to access top-tier facilities. As local residents, we know that finding a gym with a diverse range of amenities, from a pool to a full-sized basketball court, can be a challenge. The Dana Athletic Center provides these resources in a clean, accessible, and professional environment. This article will serve as your guide to understanding the features and services that make this facility a valuable resource for our community's health and wellness.

The Dana Athletic Center is more than just a standard gym; it is a multi-purpose athletic complex that serves as the home for Bentley University's varsity sports teams. This means the facilities are built to a high standard, equipped to support elite-level training and competition. While its primary function is for the university community, it also opens its doors to local residents with a membership, making these impressive resources available to all. As one visitor noted, they were impressed by the cleanliness, stating, "Some of the cleanest restrooms I’ve ever been in. Usually that’s the worst. The gym is nice as well." This attention to cleanliness and detail speaks volumes about the quality of the facility's maintenance and management.

However, it is important for prospective members and visitors to be aware of the dual-purpose nature of the facility. As a university athletic center, it is a hub for student activities and sporting events, which can sometimes lead to different experiences. While a visiting team member was "treated great by everyone there," another review highlighted a less positive experience during an opposing team's game, citing "outlandish and prejudice attacks from students." While the staff's response was criticized in this specific instance, it is a reminder that the environment can vary, especially during competitive sporting events. Most of the time, however, the facility is a space for individuals to focus on their personal fitness goals. The staff's commitment to creating a safe and respectful environment is likely a priority, and it is a factor to consider when planning a visit. The facility's high-quality amenities, in a clean environment, are a significant draw for the local community seeking more than a basic gym.

The Dana Athletic Center is conveniently located at 175 Forest St, Waltham, MA 02452, USA. Its central location makes it a great option for residents in Waltham and the surrounding towns in Massachusetts. A key highlight of the facility is its commitment to accessibility. It provides a wheelchair-accessible entrance, a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom. These features are essential in creating an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of mobility, can access the facility's resources and enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle.

The availability of ample parking is a significant convenience for anyone driving to the center. Knowing that there is a dedicated lot, especially one with accessible spaces, removes a common barrier to consistent gym attendance. The location, being part of a larger university campus, benefits from a well-maintained and professional infrastructure, which contributes to a seamless and stress-free experience from the moment you arrive. This ease of access allows you to focus on your workout, whether you are coming from home, work, or another part of the community.

The services offered at the Dana Athletic Center are extensive and cater to a wide range of athletic and recreational interests.

• Basketball court: The facility features a full-sized basketball court, which is the home of the university's varsity teams. This professional-grade court is available for members to use for pick-up games or practice.
• Volleyball court: The center is also equipped with a volleyball court, providing another excellent option for team sports and recreational play.
• Swimming pool: There is a 25-meter by 25-yard swimming pool, complete with a separate diving tank. This is a fantastic amenity for lap swimming, water aerobics, or simply a refreshing dip. The pool is open to the public through a separate membership process.
• Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available for the convenience of all visitors and members.

These services, from the professional sports courts to the swimming pool, provide a comprehensive fitness experience that goes far beyond what a typical neighborhood gym might offer. The versatility of the facility means you can switch up your routine and try new activities, keeping your fitness journey interesting and engaging.

The Dana Athletic Center boasts a number of features that make it a premier choice for local residents.

• Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, and restroom: These features highlight the facility's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for everyone.
• Basketball court: The state-of-the-art court, known as the Barbara Stevens Court, is a major highlight, perfect for serious players or casual games.
• Swimming pool: The presence of a dedicated swimming pool and diving tank is a significant feature, offering a low-impact and effective workout option.
• Professional environment: As part of Bentley University, the center is professionally maintained and managed, ensuring a high standard of cleanliness and quality.

These features, particularly the specialized courts and pool, elevate the Dana Athletic Center from a simple gym to a full-fledged athletic complex. The quality of the facilities is a direct reflection of their use by the university's athletic programs, and the fact that the public can access them is a major benefit for our community.

For those interested in a membership or visiting, here is the contact information.

• Address: 175 Forest St, Waltham, MA 02452, USA
• Phone: (781) 891-2256 or +1 781-891-2256

It is important to note that a membership is required to access the facility. Prospective members should contact the center directly to inquire about membership options and hours for the general public, as these may differ from student access.

What is worth choosing the Dana Athletic Center? The answer lies in the exceptional quality of its facilities and the breadth of its offerings. While it is a university center, it provides a unique opportunity for local residents to train in a high-caliber environment. The presence of a swimming pool, basketball court, and volleyball court makes it a versatile hub for all types of fitness activities, from individual workouts to team sports. The cleanliness of the facility, as noted in a review, is a major plus, ensuring a pleasant and hygienic experience. The commitment to accessibility with wheelchair-friendly features also makes it an inclusive option for everyone in the community.

While the negative review about spectator behavior during games is a factor to be aware of, it does not diminish the quality of the athletic facilities themselves for personal fitness use. For anyone in the Waltham and greater Massachusetts area who wants access to a full-service athletic complex with top-notch amenities, the Dana Athletic Center at Bentley University is an excellent choice. It’s an investment in a fitness experience that is professional, versatile, and well-maintained, providing a fantastic value for your health and well-being.

Dana Athletic Center- Bentley University

175 Forest St, Waltham, MA 02452, USA