A unique addition to Allen’s recreational landscape is turning heads and capturing hearts of locals and families alike. The recently opened Stephen G. Terrell Recreation Center serves as a vibrant community hub offering 149,000 square feet of diverse fitness, recreational and leisure activities to all ages. This impressive center stands as the City of Allen’s largest recreation facility and marks a historical milestone as Allen’s first recreation center located west of US 75.
Terrell Recreation Center is Allen Parks and Recreation’s newest landmark of unwavering commitment to serve the diverse lifestyles of residents. The center’s creation is a celebration of years of city planning, community collaboration, design and construction. Allen residents actively participated in the planning process through public meetings, workshops and online surveys. Kate Meacham, Director of Allen Parks and Recreation shared, “We designed this recreation center to be a community gathering place. Somewhere that provides something for everyone - no matter their health and fitness preferences.”
The result? A facility that resonates with the unique needs and desires of the community, bringing forth a sense of belonging and pride. Whether a fitness enthusiast, a parent looking for family-friendly activities, or someone seeking space to socialize and stay active, Terrell Recreation Center has something for everyone.
An Ideal Place for Fitness and Play
Step inside, and you'll find an array of amenities appealing to individuals and families of all ages. “Terrell Recreation Center is the result of a whole community planning and working together for many years,” Meacham said. “Seeing people’s faces when they walk in for the first time is priceless.” Each thoughtfully designed area is bathed in gorgeous natural light, complemented by lively colors and top-of-the-line equipment and features. When it comes to sports and fitness, the center is made up of four primary areas for movement,
competition and play.
First, spacious group exercise classrooms host popular classes such as cycle, strength-training, yoga, Pilates, barre, and many more. The entire line-up of classes is available to active members and day pass holders. For the seasoned gym-goer, those starting a wellness journey and anyone in-between, the Fitness Floor caters to all workout routines. The floor includes top-of-the-line free weights and circuit machines, high-tech cardio equipment, an indoor track with an inclined adventure option, and an outdoor fitness deck.
As a primary feature of the center, the expansive Fieldhouse Gymnasium holds eight middle school, or four full-sized, courts equipped for basketball, volleyball and pickleball. Enthusiasts and athletes can enjoy countless hours of practice, friendly matches and competitive play through open court sessions, Allen Parks and Recreation adult leagues, as well as activities organized by the Allen Sports Association (ASA).
Finally, head to the Rec Gym to find three versatile courts – one featuring an athletic turf option and indoor batting cages. All courts provide open play time for pick-up games and space for city-sponsored classes.
Fun for the Youngest of Visitors
For families with little ones, the three-story indoor Treehouse play structure is an undeniable favorite. With accessible elements, the Treehouse invites children of all abilities to endless hours of exploration and entertainment, no matter the Texas weather extremes. Nestled inside the Treehouse is the Party Room, an ideal birthday party destination. The Saplings Playroom provides an additional place for kids to play and enjoy; this room allows parents up to two hours of daily facility use while their children (ages 3 months to 9 years) are in safe,
supervised care.
Gathering Spots for Programming and Events
Spread throughout the building are multi-use spaces for programs and events. Allen Parks and Recreation hosts an impressive line-up of age-appropriate activities and classes each season ranging from sports to STEAM, culinary to specialty fitness, and education to arts and crafts. Additionally, these spaces are terrific options to rent for a variety of events, meetings and gatherings.
Affordable Memberships for All
Monthly memberships start at $35 for youth and seniors, $58 for adults and $85 for families. A one-time $75 enrollment fee initiates membership, which can be completed at the center’s Member Services desk or online. Whether you are a solo adventurer, a family prioritizing shared experiences or a group of friends seeking a new hangout, Terrell Recreation Center welcomes everyone. It is a new home-away-from-home for locals and families to connect, stay active and have fun while doing it.
Terrell Recreation Center is located at 1680 W. Exchange Parkway. Visit LifeInAllen.org/STRC to view group exercise classes and open court schedules, enroll in membership or programs and find more information.
“Seeing people’s faces when they walk in for the first time is priceless.”
