1 / 3First Ascent Uptown
đ Uptown, IL
First Ascent Uptown offers indoor bouldering with abundant natural light, creative route-setting across all skill levels, equipment rental, classes, and access to a free-weight gym and yoga classes included with membership.
đ Family Action Verdict
An excellent entry point for families wanting to try bouldering together. Abundant natural light and welcoming staff lower the barrier for beginners, and the variety of routes keeps experienced climbers engaged alongside newer ones. Best for families with children roughly 5 and up who can safely navigate bouldering terrain.
âšī¸ What to Know Before You Go
đŦ What Families Are Saying
View all reviews â371 Google reviews
G Reviews from Google
Li H
8 months ago
âGreat facility for bouldering, solid staff, and a decent number of events happening across the First Ascent chain. The only reason I give 4 stars is that I wish there were better management of new climbers who go into the bathrooms with their rental shoes on. It's gross seeing the lack of consideration for others and the influx of bacteria on the hand holds. EDIT: Updating to 5 stars because of the kind and solid correspondence with the gym. I love this place.â
Lauren Linscott
9 months ago
âThis has been my home climbing gym for over three years now. The variety of climbs throughout all skill levels is so impressive, and the staff go above and beyond in their customer service. Experiences at this location have turned several of my friends into return customers. Highly recommend this gym to anyone looking to get into climbing or find a home gym in the city!â
Adam Goldstein
7 months ago
âGreat bouldering gym with an abundance of routes, classes, and equipment. Totally reasonable prices for both day passes and memberships. The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful too!â
đŦ What parents mention
Overview
First Ascent Uptown features floor-to-ceiling windows flooding the bouldering area with natural light, creative routes from beginner through advanced, a free-weight gym, and yoga classes bundled with membership. Equipment rental and climbing classes make it accessible for first-timers. Staff consistently praised for helpfulness with new climbers. Some holds show polish from high traffic, which affects grip on technical sequences.
