Reviews of Merritt Clubs Downtown Athletic Club (Gym)

Jefferey Adam Thompkins

Very pricy gym membership could be better as pay as u go

Migrating User

The best in metropolitan Baltimore. Lots of locations and abundance classes to choose from.

Enrique Ribadeneira

Friendly staff. Primarily an adult/ mature clientele

Eugene ray

Great bar

Keith Bennett

Best fitness facility I've found.

Larry Mccall

It has every exercise machine you can imagine and it is open 24 hours per day seven days per week.

Daniel Martinez

Great place to work out, atmosphere is much better then their Canton location. It also has an indoor track that is pretty useful

Barak Havens

Great gym with many amenities! Been going for about 4 months and the price tag is worth it. They have a steam room and newly renovated sauna that have been great for the recent cold weather. Staff are friendly are equipment is well taken care off.

Denise Nielsen

Called yesterday because I am interested in joining. The front desk person sent me off to a voice mail. I left a message. Have not received a return call yet (and it's been a day). Wow, should not take this long to call a potential member back - especially for the rates they charge.

Ethyel Conyers

Nice gym

Rico Disco

I am definitely a huge fan of the Group Fitness classes offered not only at the Downtown Athletic Club, but also the other Merritt locations. The instructors have a lot a drive and provide the best encouragement, which makes the classes fun and exciting. I am very happy with my choice of being a member and really love the fact that there are so many choices. Getting back into shape has never been more exciting!

Rochelle Spain

Love it!

Jasmine Smith

Overpriced! The Downtown facility looks run down and the layout does not make sense. If you want a more updated facility with better membership prices Maryland athletic club harbor east is much better for cheaper membership price.

terpmaniac

I live in apt building downtown and we recently had a fire. Our gym was destroyed so the building manager got 14 day passes for all the tenants since Merritt is right down the street. I am a former member of the DAC, its been about 13 months. I called to inquire if I could use the 14 pass. The person who I spoke to said NO YOU CANNOT. I said why. Because I am a former member(for almost 8 years)and I had used a 10 day pass about 3 months ago and I had complained while a member and got her into trouble, so NO. Real classy Merritt, real classy.

Ianta Allotey

Lots of classes and exercise equipment a b d a pool and Sauna

kizzy hill

This is a great facility I love all the machines especially love the steam room hot tub the pool and the sauna

Emily Balins

This place is terrible. Plantet Fitness is more equipt then here. They’re not accounting for how many people go here. There is enough equipment for a home gym at best. You can smell the egos from the parking lot. I waited a half an hour just to get a free weight. The Owings Mills location is 100X better I’d rather walk on glass than ever come here again

Steve R

(5/2019 update: this place is still awesome, here 4-6 times per week. their equipment to member ratio is the best in the city. literally Planet fitness has 25,000 members per location. Merrit has 1/5th that at their locations) This place is amazing. Largest gym in the city, largest amount of equipment and its made from a historic enclosed train yard. As nice as it is, it's got a little character. Which is nice, because a place that's a spa isn't a gym to get sweaty and earn that work out high. Great customer service, never a wait for equipment (because there's so much equipment). perks: leather chair lounge in men's room, large screen tv in men's locker room, free weight area is huge in selection/size, tons of parking, plus one gym membership gets you to all the merrits. cons: I selfishly want a tanning booth and a massage chair, but its all good. I'm there 5-7 days a week.

Mazen Khaled

So for my free trial on the second day they told me you can’t come in because i came past 9:00 pm(although it’s a 24 hrs club), after telling the front desk that i have walked 20 minutes to be there, yet the lady said that these are the rules although nobody has informed me about this while signing up on the first day and that whatever happened on the first day that was not her problem. Other than that the club is good and pretty spacious. Ps: make sure they tell you whatever rules they have before setting the free trial or joining the club.

Shanita Bowman

Finally a gym that has everything I need in one place.....

Ariel שײץ

Wow

Bill Marcus

Good place to work out

Yiota Florent

Love everything about this gym!! It's amazing.

Ian Camunag

Customer service sucks, manager is rude, they dont know how to talk properly so... yeah. That's to sum it up.

Alan Duran

This Place SUCKS, it not worth the money first the place is super old and smells awful. The Staff is nice well some of the staff is nice there is a night manager who I swear is bipolar. One minute I see him and he very nice and then next he acts like I insulted his mother. The just recently got some new equipment and are making some upgrades but overall it not worth the money. These gym is a place where people go to socialize not workout, if you go after work there are tons of people there just running their mouths sitting on equipment and not working out. The members range from working professionals to homeless people. The men's locker room is a haven for old gay men. I mean no disrespect but I am going to take a shower not perform a peek show. Most of the member are super rude cliques. I mean the place looks like a highschool gym so I guess some of the members feel like they have to act like there in High school. The Canton Location is SO MUCH BETTER it like night and day. So if your stuck with the $90 membership you should go to that one and stay the hell away from this place. The Canton Location is also 24hours but doesn't have a indoor track (bummer) but worth going to to avoid weird club members and a smelly dirty gym.

RAEOTUG THANKS

Love all the great equipment upgrades

Austin Wellington

The biggest idiots of all time they will screw you over without blinking. I signed a person up to have my next month free, but it’s been two and they will not give me a single month for my services. People on the phone are complete idiots, do not recommend this horrible gym.

Body More

Bad

Robert Allen

Great place to workout. Good equipment and friendly staff.

Damion Colavito

Merritt is the best club in Baltimore, by far.

Yvonne Wenger

Merritt - DAC Personal trainer I’ve read the books. “Weight Training for Dummies” and “Women Food and God.” Had a yearslong subscription to “Self.” I tried to apply what I learned to my own journey to lose weight and tone up, but I was left with questions about the practical application in my own exercise routine. Would workouts for me on the elliptical be as effective as a run on the treadmill? Should I use free weights or machines to get the best results? How exactly do I build up the strength to do a proper push up? Keith DeMoura knew the answers to each of my questions, but it wasn’t just his knowledge that was impressive. He listened to me. He acknowledged my frustrations and carefully considered a solution. Keith is an excellent conversationalist – no awkward silences – and no judgment. Perhaps most important, though, Keith came up with an individualized workout plan for me and my body. Applying his advice, I'm down 6 pounds this month, which is about 4 percent of my body weight. My clothes fit better. My confidence is up and I am pumped to keep going. I am glad to have Keith to help guide me. He is well worth the investment.

Tirus Trusty

Good

TiaLa TheRuler

It's my my second home. Everyone is so friendly even the other members are like family it's a great atmosphere. Great place to workout. The only negative is the price but I guess you pay for what you get.

Andre Unsal

This specific club is located at a pretty convenient location near the UB Midtown area and Penn Station. The building has a lot of historic charm and makes it a very interesting place to workout. The amenities are great, including the basketball court and running track which I have used extensively. The gym really gives a sensation of space in a city that can feel cramped at times. Also, Corey, who guided me through getting a membership was very friendly, respectful, and courteous as he toured me. The membership prices may be steep for some, but if you can afford it I would highly recommend it. In addition, there is constant access to fresh towels and the men's room facilities are sanitary and spacious. The steam room and showers are also solid. I have yet to visit the other locations, including Canton, but am excited to have the Downtown location close to home :)

Lucy Mendez

It's a step up from planet fitness but I would definitely think twice or more if you are considering a membership. They need to fix their customer service. There are a handful of workers that are great but sadly it's easily overshadowed by all else they lack. If you don't care about customer service the facility itself is decent.

Dorian Stalkmuch

Been a member for years now, left and joined a few other gyms and always come back. Love the location, the environment , indoor track when it’s cold out, and steam room and whirlpool are the icing on the cake.

Daniel Pelaez

Dirty and packed

Michael Weeks

Love this gym.

Justin Fezal

This place is terrible, especially if you take into account the price. One of the most expensive gyms in Baltimore city that has very little to offer. Older outdated equipment, dirty dressing room.

F. D. Kirkman

I love that it is a repurposed old train station b/c it forces them to use the space creatively. It has every amenity that you could ask for. I also like that they keep the equipment up to date

Willie Anderson Rd3

Great place

Martin Zempoalteca

es un jin nasio excelente y es mi trabajo de limpiezas

Erik Schlegel

Great gym with all the equipment you need. The mornings are pretty empty so I have not had to wait for the machines. The parking lot is a bit small and the layout is strange and a bit awkward.

Paul Guerino

It gets the job done, but just barely. Friendly staff, but the facility is in desperate need of complete renovation. It has an odd layout, old changing rooms, and just feels dirty. Compared to newer gyms downtown, the cost doesn't really match the service provided. This all being said, the Canton and Locust Point locations offer the services that modern gym-goers tend to look for.

Daniel Knopp

Excellent facility with basketball court, boxing gym, rowing machines, racquetball court, and pool, everything I need!

Jennifer Silverman

Expensive but nice gym

John Prah

Great facilities

Melvin Cross

Great place

Zachery Epps

Indoor pool and track

James Long

Baltimore's best

Karol Nathaly

Parking can be an issue sometimes

Matthew McLaughlin

Expensive, but worth it.

Resurrected Resources

Great exercise venue

herbert dubose jr

Love the pool and many things to do

Cameron Altringer

Merritt is one of the best decisions I have ever made for my health. The downtown facility is fantastic, and the group fitness instructors are incredible! I never thought I'd ever become a person who loves the gym, but I guess I just needed to find the right gym. Merritt is it!

Huy Huynh

No prices on their websites. Called 3 different locations still couldn't get the answer

Ioan Lina

Great gym

JESSE B

Ok I gotta get started on my New Year's promise's in which I should've never made but a deal is a deal so I'm gonna try Merritt's Club next week because I've heard cool things about this place so we will see!!!

Arthur Bridgeforth

Got the membership yesterday I love the gym a lot the staff is really nice and it has everything you need! I am also between the age of 18-24 which is $59/mo which is awesome!!! Mr.Jeff is really funny and cool. Would recommend this gym for everyone especially the youth.

kevin Martin

Clean

James Cameron - Network

$25 day rate is ridiculous . I am currently with the dancing with the stars tour and was hoping to use this facility for the dancers daily workout. But at that rate they won’t be going there. No free show tickets and social media publicity for this gym ...

Nicky Y. Schleider

i've been a member for years, and i'm very happy with the club. i like the staff, the equipment and the clients.

Jamison Koehler

I was a member at the club for 6 years before my wife and I left Baltimore. The club is conveniently located, and there is always parking. The facilities are clean and the staff people are friendly. There is plenty of equipment so you never have to wait. My only gripe is that their guest policy isn't a bit more accommodating: The guest gets one free pass, then has to pay $25.

Peter Lerkaram

Handicap access is virtually non existent. Pick another gym to get rehab if you're a wheelchair user.

Laura Jansen

Appreciate the 24 hr access. Large enough to give lots of options for varying your routine. Great staff and management.

Randie Grainger

Loved the old "Maryland Athletic Club", These guys are GREAT! On so many levels!

LjSmithOfficial

Got a 5 day pass to try out the gym. First went to Canton location and people was nice and friendly and equipment was decent than went to this location downtown and a old African american lady said I couldn't go in after 9pm. I think her name is Kathy. I said it 8:58? She said sir I cant let you in. I asked well I just drove 30 min to get here can I at least just see the gym? She immediate said no. Sorry Merritt but customer service should be top priority especially for potential members. Ill join another brand, Thanks but no thanks.

robert mitchell

I can really get a goo work out here and they have boxing

Henry Wong

Gd trainers, gd fitness class, free parking.

Brittaney Conaway

Nice people there is one very nasty cashier she is heavy set. I don't know her name but she the biggest one there.

Aaron Faulkner

Favorite gym..

Colleen Castle

Gym with everything you need for a good workout... lots of machines, open space for stretching or circuits, friendly and helpful trainers, and yummy smoothies (from very friendly staff) post-workout. It's not luxurious, which is why I didn't give it a fifth star, but it's a great place to work out.

Benjamin Long

Very clean place. Staff is amazing. Parking isn't as bad as people make it out to be. Wonderful place

DOUGLAS MONROE

For chronic back pain.

Doug Foster

This is honestly my home away from home, I'm here as often as possible and my physique has definitely benefited from the dedication that I have for this place. Merritt is awesome

D Wilks

24 hours and the staff is nice! The protein smoothies are excellent

Rich H

Not the best place to have a soccer league.. but a nice facility none the less.

Craig Price

Only clubs open 24hr all around Baltimore

Kevin Delaney

Love the place two people are nice the worker and the work out there it's clean and couldn't ask for anything better

Jackie Jones

(Translated by Google) 24hrs (Original) 24hrs

Matthew Tabin

It's a "health club", not a gym. Critical distinction.

sushi oconnor

Large variety of workout options, great amenities, convenient location

Bryan M

Update - manager is working with me to get everything resolved. Thanks

Japp Haynes IV

Great facility and well maintained. There are more affordable 24hr options but there are amenities here that are unique to the Merritt brand.

Suzette. L Bolden

You work out real hard here you are going to get result believe, me.

Jason Triplett

They really need to change the water filter

Elaine Chim

Between this location, the one in Federal Hill, and the one in Canton, I find this one the most practical. It is the biggest gym in town. The women's locker room is not fancy but always clean and well-kept. The studios and other multi-functional rooms are well equipped. The instructors at this location are among the friendliest and less intimidating ones I have worked with. In terms of parking, they are accommodating enough to validate the tickets you get from the Baltimore Sun's garage. The customers are more diverse in age and fitness level than the nearby locations, making the atmosphere more laid-back. All in all, great location with great staff.

Herman Williams III

I go to all three gyms - Ft Ave., Canton (where I joined) and DTAC & I love the DTAC because it's raw - it's for working out, not posing, talking, etc. You come in, the place is immaculate, fresh towels, amazing staff (a few exceptions) excellent equipment. I mean, everything - a whole room full of heavy bags, multiple handball courts, and the mother of all amenities - the steam room. No one does it better. Been a member 5-years - worth every penny

Jonathan Spencer

Has everything you need for a good workout

David Loveless

The homeless guys here are awesome, my mans gave me a loosie! Sup Rock, Slim, Big Mike!

Uhmar Alston

Fantastic place to Workout. Has a basketball court, pool, racket ball rooms, track. Decent equipment too.

Sam Wyatt

I've never been a gym person but this place satisfies all needs. I love to swim laps. It has a very calm pool area that makes you feel right at home. They also have a Jacuzzi for after work out or just bad days. They have a sauna and a steam room. The place is enormous and the staff is great.

Ahson Ul Haq

Amazing Fitness Center. Gym, track, sauna, steam and jacuzzi

Audriana Duvall

Clean, lots of classes you can try for free with membership. Pools (great outside one at Towson of you have a membership that goes to all the locations) Easy to cancel a membership. When I first started going to the gym, I got a free training session. He worked me out so hard that I threw up and was sore everywhere for almost a week. Really turned me off to the gym until I found a routine that I liked. Also ensured I would never spend money on personal trainer ever again.

William Cook

Steam room pool and sauna are the biggest reason for coming back

Amanda Robinson

Great bar location for the Christmas light.Delicious food.Nice bar but it gets extremely crowded.

Ratan Kumar Barui

Very good place

Olivia Zug

my favorite of all the city merritt locations. historical warehouse charm, great facilities and instructors.

Micah Mysiuk

Great place to work out, friendly staff, clean facility.

Chris Todd

The staff members are friendly and the facility is clean. The workout machines are antiquated compared to some other Merritt properties, but the machines all work fine. My only gripe is the locker room. I just don't understand why there are mirrors on every wall surface. I don't want to see everyone undressing from every angle, nor do I want to be seen from every possible angle.

TM Hessler

After being a member since 2009 (six years), I needed to cancel my membership for Extenuating Circumstances. I agreed to pay the final month dues and they agreed to close out my membership. 15 days into the month, I was charged an unauthorized $149 which I can only assume was for cancelling. I have called (left messages) and emailed several different people within the organization for the past 5 days without a response from anyone. I finally went in to my local club to speak with someone since I had not been able to reach anyone only to have them give me another number to call (which no one has answered or responded to.) This wouldn't be half as maddening if these gyms provided great customer service to begin with but they don't. Corporate only sees members as a way for financial gain. There is constantly no parking at any of these facilities, long lines to use equipment and unmonitored children running around the locker rooms getting the floors wet since the clubs rent out their pools for swim lessons. For paying close to $100/mth this is NOT the place to waste your money if you are looking for a high-end gym experience and are serious about your fitness and health. If anything, it will be a detriment to your health not a benefit.

Kenneth Coles

Get it in.

lonnie nelson

Best FOR fitness, very nice people

Robert Black

Everything you need in 1 place!

BiRby Doo

Favorite Merritt location. Love the yoga classes.

Victor Miranda

Great gym with lots of space, nice variety of machines, great classes and instructors. I've been a member here for years. The locker room could use some updating, and the temperature in the spinning room is not always pleasant, but overall this is one of the best gym companies in Baltimore.

Avery Winstead

Locker room aren't your usual locker rooms. Beware!!

Michelle Ross

There is plenty of equipment, a good number of cycles and treadmills, an indoor track, a pool, and racquetball, squash, and basketball courts. Sure, at times the temperature can be too hot, but overall, it is a good, clean gym.

B J

Pleasant

Jack Charles

Worth the money