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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Illinois

Bouldering

You need a bouldering wall that challenges your grip and your problem-solving skills in equal measure.

Based on 456 Opinions
+453
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Updated June 2026
01
First Ascent Block 37 image 1
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Rock climbing gym

Spacious gym offers incredible downtown views and varied bouldering problems for all levels. Friendly vibe makes it a great social and relaxing space. Amenities like a large fitness area and yoga classes boost the experience.

A large space offers many bouldering problems with a variety of terrains and levels. Route setting stays fresh and interesting, making it a fun spot for bouldering.

People are saying

"The climbing gym's setting is the best in the city, forcing technique."

"The staff at this rock climbing gym are so friendly and helpful."

"The bouldering problems here are excellent and varied."

Good to know

1

The gym opens until 11pm, but the mall closes at 10pm.

2

A daily pass costs $33, which may be high for new climbers.

3

New climbing routes are set approximately twice a week.

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First Ascent Humboldt Park image 1

Spacious warehouse offers varied bouldering styles and challenging routes for all levels. Welcoming community fosters strong connections among climbers. Modern fitness area and free yoga classes boost overall workout experience.

Huge gym offers a wide variety of bouldering options and styles for all levels. Training includes both on-wall and off-wall exercises, with beginner sessions available to learn the basics.

People are saying

"This rock climbing gym has tons of space and varied routes."

"The climbing gym has an amazing community and super caring staff."

"The bouldering here offers so many options and styles."

Good to know

1

Free yoga and group fitness classes are offered daily.

2

Climbing classes and meet-up events are available regularly.

3

Community-oriented gatherings support minority and underrepresented groups.

03
First Ascent Uptown image 1
Rock climbing gym

Bright gym offers natural light and unique overhang walls for climbers. Frequent route changes keep bouldering fresh, with an Intro to Bouldering class for beginners. Laid back vibe and inclusive community make it welcoming for all fitness levels.

Routes change frequently in a good-sized bouldering gym with lots of options. An Intro to Bouldering class is available for those returning to climbing.

People are saying

"The staff at this rock climbing gym are so friendly and helpful."

"The yoga classes here are great and feel like a community."

"I found tons of bouldering options and routes here."

Good to know

1

Brittany's yoga classes are on Saturdays at 1pm.

2

Membership includes access to gym equipment and yoga classes.

3

The gym offers fun monthly activities for members.

04
North Wall Rock Climbing Gym image 1

Rock climbing gym shines with top notch bouldering walls featuring unique shapes and fun challenges. Atmosphere stays welcoming and laid back, perfect for families and serious climbers. Amenities include weightlifting and grip training plus yoga and aerial silks classes.

Most climbing here focuses on bouldering with lots of interesting holds and fun challenges. The bouldering quality stands out as top notch.

People are saying

"The staff at the rock climbing gym are super friendly and helpful."

"It's a unique climbing spot for all skill levels, from beginner to expert."

"The bouldering here is top-notch with lots of fun challenges."

Good to know

1

The gym offers rental shoes and harnesses for those without gear.

2

North Wall has climbing options suitable for kids as young as 7.

3

The facility features a variety of climbing styles, including bouldering and top rope routes.

05
Movement Climbing, Yoga, Fitness image 1

Huge gym with two floors of bouldering offers diverse routes for all skill levels. Clean, well-kept sauna and showers add comfort. Thoughtful design includes lockers with code locks and bike parking for convenience.

Two huge floors offer plenty of bouldering routes to climb. The gym stays very clean and includes nice showers and a sauna.

People are saying

"This rock climbing gym has fun, challenging bouldering routes for all skill levels."

"The yoga classes here were always full and enjoyable."

"I found the bouldering gym to be very clean."

Good to know

1

Membership includes climbing, yoga, sauna, and full gym access.

2

The gym is clean and well-maintained, providing a pleasant environment.

3

Expect the gym to be busy after 6 or 7 pm.

06
First Ascent Arlington Heights image 1

Spacious gym shines with natural light and varied bouldering routes. Friendly vibe builds strong climber camaraderie. Fitness center offers showers and yoga rooms for full workout support.

Varied bouldering options and climbing walls offer fun and challenging routes. Weekly classes cover bouldering, top rope, lead climbing, and private instruction with helpful staff support.

People are saying

"The staff at this rock climbing gym are always helpful and welcoming."

"The climbing routes here are really fun and challenging."

"The bouldering routes here are awesome and really fun."

Good to know

1

They offer fun weekly classes on bouldering and top rope climbing.

2

Regular climber meetups help expand climbing buddy circles.

3

They host member appreciation events like a Taco Bar Social.

07
First Ascent Avondale image 1
Rock climbing gym

Huge walls and a spacious bouldering area offer varied routes for all skill levels. Family-friendly vibes and a focus on safety create a welcoming space. Facilities like auto-belays and clean locker rooms support both solo climbers and families.

A clean, well-maintained space offers a variety of bouldering walls on the upper floor. Routes cover all skill levels alongside top rope, lead, and autobelay options.

People are saying

"The staff at the Rock Climbing Gym are so helpful and supportive."

"The gym's bouldering problems were fun and challenging."

"The staff here makes bouldering so friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

First Ascent hosts climbing competitions and community events almost every week.

2

A family day pass with gear costs $99 for a day.

3

The day pass is $25, while a monthly membership is $90.

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