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, Volleyball, Weavers and Spinners Society of Austin, Weight Room, Writers Group, Yoga, and Austin Society of Karate.
Per the COVID-19 Mayoral declaration, the Center is closed to the public effective Monday, March 16th . Please check the Closure page for update.
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.
Open-Play Badminton Reservation (PDF)
Staff
- Site Supervisor: Sean Hill
- Recreation Coordinator: Cristina Maldonado
- Recreation Coordinator: Andrea Serenil
- Building and Grounds Assistant: Juan Carlos Aldrete Adame
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.
