Austin Recreation Center

The Austin Recreation Center offers year round activities, events, and classes for children and adults. Adult programs include American Karate, The Austin Philosophy Discussion Group (APDG), Austin Shotokan Karate, Badminton, Chen-style Tai Chi (Taijiquan), Jazzercise, Kickball, Sahaja Meditation, Scrabble Club, Volleyball, Weavers and Spinners Society of Austin, Weight Room, Writers Group and Yoga. Our Youth Programs include Austin Society of Karate and Dance Associates.

The center houses a 7000 sq. ft. gymnasium with six basketball goals and 2 lined volleyball courts. Other amenities include a 700 sq. ft dance studio with mirrors and bars, a kitchen/meeting space, arts and crafts room, meeting room, weight room and shower facilities.

View Center Brochure

Hours of Operation

M-Th 7:30am - 10:30pm

F 7:30am - 9pm

Sa 8:30am - 3:30pm

Su 12:00pm-4:00pm

The weight room and locker

rooms close 30 minutes prior to posted closing time.

Site Supervisor: David Crabb

Building and Grounds Assistant: Johnny McKinney

Historical Information: The first organized recreation center in Austin was the privately owned Austin Athletic Club, built in 1923, by William T. Caswell. In 1931. Mr. Caswell sold the club to the City of Austin for "a small remuneration". The name of the center was officially changed to the Austin Recreation Center in 1970. After substantial damage, due to the Memorial Day flood of 1981 that center was closed after the existing center was built and opened in 1986.