Downtown Yakima YMCA

★Sgt.Doakes

I have been a consistent member of the downtown YMCA for many years, dating back to when I was approximately eleven years old. Over that time, this facility has largely embodied the values it promotes—community, respect, and personal development. For that reason, what I am about to describe stands out as a rare and deeply disappointing exception to an otherwise positive experience. Under normal circumstances, I genuinely look forward to coming to this gym. The environment, overall atmosphere, and the professionalism of most staff members make it a place where I arrive in a good mood and feel motivated to be there. Unfortunately, that experience changes entirely when I encounter a particular front-desk staff member identifiable by purple-colored hair. This individual consistently displays behavior that is unprofessional, dismissive, and unnecessarily confrontational. Her attitude alone is often enough to immediately dampen what would otherwise be a positive visit. The tone and manner in which she interacts with members comes across as entitled and openly disrespectful, creating an atmosphere that feels hostile rather than welcoming. More concerning is her apparent tendency to enforce rules inconsistently or to fabricate rules altogether. These actions do not appear grounded in official policy and instead seem driven by personal discretion or pettiness. As a result, routine gym visits can become unnecessarily stressful, as members are subjected to unpredictable and arbitrary enforcement. Rather than contributing to the positive energy that defines this location, her presence is frequently a complete mood killer. The absolute lack of courtesy and professionalism stands in direct opposition to the values the YMCA publicly represents. This is not reflective of a single misunderstanding, but rather a repeated pattern of conduct that detracts from the member experience. I want to emphasize that this feedback is not meant to disparage the downtown YMCA as a whole. On the contrary, this facility has been an important and positive space in my life for years, and the majority of staff members consistently demonstrate professionalism, kindness, and respect. That is precisely why this situation is so jarring—it is the opposite of what one expects from this organization. I sincerely hope management takes this feedback seriously and addresses the issue appropriately. Member-facing staff play a critical role in shaping the culture and reputation of the facility, and it is essential that all employees uphold the principles of respect, consistency, and professionalism that the YMCA stands for. This remains a great facility overall, but this issue deserves attention to ensure the environment stays welcoming and aligned with its mission.

★Matthew Zecchino

Worst place I've ever been to. Every time I try to go in, I get stopped! They say I haven't paid! Which isn't true. They take my money every month. It's cool. I'm canceling my membership! It's been over 25 years. I've never seen the upstairs basketball court waxed. GYST

★★★★★Nicholas Cruz

People who are not familiar with the town should go here when it comes to basketball. Competitive pick up games on the legendary 4th floor. My favorite place to go to. Follow a good workout with a good 15 minutes in the steam room. You go home feeling real nice.

★★★★Not Given

Over all the center is nice and clean not crowded most of the time, I have been there on times where I have had to wait for equipment to free up but that was to be expected after the new year. I gave them one less star because the locker room changing area can be standing room only and your luck if there is an available locker to store your things. In the years past I used the Y down town but have not been there since the aquatic center open, I have been planning A visit but will wait till the boiler is repaired and their back up and running “ full steam”.

★★★★★Dalia M

Great! Basketball courts, racquetball courts, a running track, a pool, plenty of weight lifting equipment and cardio machines, and I love the classes! There is daycare and kids classes and activities. There is no longer a "Triangle Membership," so everyone has access to all facilities, including the sauna, hot tub (and a steam room for men only). Looking forward to checking out the new Aquatic Center with my membership. I am very grateful the Y was willing to work with me to make it affordable. I like to come here and use the space on my own doing yoga and dancing. Very flexible space able to accommodate changes in preferences and interests throughout the year.