In Chicago we always have an appetite for new innovative, collaborative and active spaces. Imagine a venue where you can work out, grab a healthy meal, get your work done and satisfy your need for a dance party. After wild success in New York and Boston, Brooklyn Boulders is opening a Chicago facility in the West Loop (100 S. Morgan St.) at the end of this year (slated for December). The rock climbing facility and coworking space inhabits 25,000 square feet within one of Chicago’s favorite dining and socializing neighborhoods.
The Chicago Lifestyle had the opportunity to get a sneak peek at the facility, still under construction, in an official “hard hat tour.” We’re bringing you the details of this new spot before doors open to the public.
While rock climbing is the core of the business, Brooklyn Boulders was eager to learn about the Chicago neighborhood and see what type of offerings would be the best fit. Tailoring to entrepreneurs, students, techies, and athletes alike, the facility is designed to connect people and bring them together with a buzz of energy.
Stepping into the main entrance, a bouldering wall is the centerpiece. Climbing this wall does not involve the use of ropes, but safety is first and foremost. The shortest of the climbing walls, the bouldering wall is designed for all skill levels and markers on the wall indicate which steps to take based on your skill level. Toward the back of the facility is a taller wall and party room, designed specifically for groups and parties. A small café will offer quick, healthy options, bringing a simple dining spot for anyone who wants to pop in. Formulated with an urban aesthetic, Brooklyn Boulders Chicago will feature artwork from local artists, music to set a creative mood and climbing walls lined with Baltic birch wood to provide a smoother, sleeker climb.
A second level offers space for a multitude of workouts ranging from treadmills, yoga and other fitness classes. A partnership with the Spartan Race spurred an obstacle course training class. This level also features the “Active Collaborative Workspace” – set up with built-in desks, a lounge area and free wifi, it’s a terrific spot to bring your homework or office work. What’s most unique about the Active Collaborative Workspace are the chin-up bar and exercise balls to sit on, encouraging frequent movement and breaks in between study time.
The stunning south room extends up to a 50 foot ceiling and is covered in rock climbing surfaces. Designed for rappelling and belaying, the more adventurous climbers will be in heaven. A DJ-fueled soundtrack makes this expansive room the perfect place to host large parties and events. For those not climbing or climbers taking a rest, the middle of the room will be lined with couches and casual lounge space. Partnerships with over 20 Chicago food trucks will bring a party to the back parking lot in the summer months, where guests can chill at picnic tables and enjoy a bite to eat.
New to climbing? Brooklyn Boulders Chicago offers “Learn the Ropes” courses for both members and drop-ins. Instructors are always on hand to supervise and answer questions. Memberships are already available for purchase here. Upon “soft launch” in the fall, the facility will be open for limited hours. Once fully operational, it will be open from 6:30 – 9:30 a.m. for fitness classes, and 10 a.m. – midnight for climbing and all the other offerings.
Stay tuned as Chicago opens this new space that will stoke your creativity, inspiration, and physical abilities.