


Northtown Center at Amherst
About
Northtown Center at Amherst is a one-stop recreation hub that keeps families active year-round. With an indoor pool for swimming lessons and open swim, ice skating rink, basketball courts, and extensive fitness areas, there's something for every energy level. The center's diverse programming includes summer camps, youth sports leagues, and family-friendly events that make it a community favorite.
Highlights
- ✓Indoor swimming pool with lap lanes and recreational swim times
- ✓Ice skating rink with public skate sessions and skate rentals
- ✓Full-size basketball courts for pickup games and leagues
- ✓Comprehensive summer camp programs with various themes
- ✓Fitness areas accessible to older kids and teens with parent supervision
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekends (right at 7:00 AM opening) to snag pool lanes before swim teams and classes fill the schedule
- 2.Check the online calendar before visiting,ice skating and pool times vary daily based on hockey leagues and swim lessons
- 3.Bring your own lock for lockers and plan extra time for changing, especially with multiple kids
- 4.Sign up for their email list to get early registration for popular summer camps, which fill up quickly
- 5.Weekday late afternoons (4-6 PM) can be crowded with after-school programs; mid-morning is typically quietest
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9:00 AM-12:00 PM) offer the least crowds and best access to facilities. Winter months are ideal for taking advantage of the ice skating rink, while summer camps keep kids engaged during school breaks.
What to Know
Day passes and membership options are available at varying price points; check their website for current rates and facility schedules as pool and rink times change frequently. Ample free parking is available on-site, and vending machines offer snacks though no full-service café is present.
Seasonal Notes
Winter is prime time for ice skating activities and indoor swimming when outdoor options close. Summer features intensive day camp programs that require advance registration. Holiday breaks often include special open gym and extended recreational hours,check their calendar for themed family events during school vacation weeks.
Nearby Eats
Panera Bread (5 minutes away) offers quick, healthy kid-friendly meals with high chairs and a relaxed atmosphere. For post-activity pizza, Bocce Club Pizza is a local Western New York favorite just 10 minutes away with massive portions perfect for hungry families.
More Activities Near Amherst
Trillium Nature Center / Buffalo Audubon Society
Trillium Nature Center offers families an immersive outdoor classroom where kids can explore woodland trails, observe native wildlife, and participate in hands-on environmental programs. With its excellent 4.8-star rating and focus on local ecosystems, this nature preserve provides a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and educational discovery that keeps children engaged while learning about the natural world around them.
Glen Park
Glen Park is Amherst's go-to destination for family fun, offering something for everyone from toddlers to teens. With its popular splash pad for hot summer days, multiple playgrounds for different age groups, and plenty of open space for running around, it's the perfect spot for a few hours of outdoor entertainment. The well-maintained walking trails and pavilions make it ideal for extended family gatherings or casual weekend outings.
Amherst State Park
Amherst State Park is a welcoming neighborhood park that delivers all the essentials for a great family outing. With well-maintained playground equipment, expansive open fields perfect for impromptu soccer games or kite flying, and scenic walking paths that accommodate strollers, this park offers something for every member of the family without overwhelming younger children.
Hon. Shirley Chisholm (Audubon) branch - Amherst Public Library
The Hon. Shirley Chisholm branch offers a welcoming, modern library experience designed with families in mind. Beyond an impressive children's book collection, you'll find hands-on maker spaces where kids can explore STEM activities, regular storytimes that bring books to life, and educational programs tailored to different age groups that make learning fun and interactive.