New York Athletic Club Central Park South

Ever wondered where the city's elite sweat it out in style? Welcome to the New York Athletic Club, Central Park South's best-kept secret. This isn't your average gym, folks. It's a time capsule, a social club, and a sports powerhouse all rolled into one. Let's dive in, shall we?

History's Workout

Founded in 1868, this club is older than the Statue of Liberty. Imagine working out where Teddy Roosevelt, Babe Ruth, and even Jackie Kennedy once pumped iron. Talk about a historic burn!

But wait, there's more! The club's home, a grand old building on Central Park South, was once a luxury hotel. Rumor has it, John Lennon and Yoko Ono spent their honeymoon here. Can you imagine them doing yoga in the same space where you're grunting through your squats?

Sports Galore

The NYAC is a sports fan's dream. They've got everything from fencing to bowling, and even a pool where you can swim laps under a stained-glass ceiling. Yes, you read that right. It's like swimming in a church, but with less hymn-singing and more splashing.

And get this, they've got their own rowing team. You know, just in case you feel like channeling your inner Olympian and rowing up the Hudson. Who needs a spin class when you can row like you're in a movie montage?

NEW YORK ATHLETIC CLUB - Updated April 2026 - 126 Photos & 102 Reviews

Dining with a View

After all that exercise, you're gonna work up an appetite. Good thing the NYAC has some of the best dining views in the city. Their restaurant, The Grill Room, overlooks Central Park. It's like eating in a postcard, but with less smudgy fingerprints.

And here's a fun fact: The club's old dining room was once a ballroom. So, while you're enjoying your steak, you can imagine Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers dancing around you. Dinner and a show, anyone?

The New York Athletic Club – Reidy Contracting Group

Quirks & Curiosities

Now, let's talk quirks. The NYAC has a coat of arms. Yes, you read that right. A coat of arms. It's like they're a tiny country tucked away in midtown. And get this, they've got their own motto: "Manners Makyth Man." It's like the club's version of "Carpe Diem," but with more etiquette and less seizing the day.

And here's one more for the road: The club has a tradition of giving new members a wooden sword. Yes, a wooden sword. It's a symbol of sportsmanship, but it's also a great conversation starter at parties. "Oh, this old thing? It's just my NYAC wooden sword. You know, no big deal."

So, there you have it. The New York Athletic Club, Central Park South's most fascinating fitness destination. It's like stepping into a time machine, a sports museum, and a luxury hotel all at once. Who needs a regular gym when you can work out in style like this?