Discover Community and Recreation at Melnea A. Cass Recreational Complex in Boston, Massachusetts
Located in Boston’s vibrant Roxbury neighborhood, the Melnea A. Cass Recreational Complex—also known simply as “Cass Corner”—is a community cornerstone offering sports, wellness, education, and cultural programs for all ages. Named after the beloved civil‑rights leader Melnea Cass, this multifaceted public facility brings a unique blend of athletic fields, indoor fitness amenities, and youth- and senior-focused programming to the heart of the city. Whether you’re dropping by for a pickup basketball game, signing the kids up for summer camp, or checking out a dance class, Cass Recreational Complex is a welcoming hub of activity and inclusion.
Top Activities at Melnea A. Cass Recreational Complex
Sports Fields & Courts
- Basketball courts: Indoor and outdoor courts for casual games or league play
- Tennis courts: Well-maintained courts available for drop-in or league matches
- Baseball & softball fields: Lighted diamond fields for pick-up games and organized leagues
- Football & soccer fields: Full-sized turf fields supporting leagues and community events
Fitness & Aquatics
- Fitness center: Cardio machines, free weights, and open floor space
- Track: Indoor walking/jogging track ideal for year-round exercise
- Swimming pool: Lane swims, family times, and swimming lessons
Enrichment & Community Spaces
- Playground & community garden: Perfect for kids and community gardening enthusiasts
- Dance studio & meeting rooms: Host for classes, workshops, and local group events
- Computer lab & game room: Tech resources and recreation for youth and adults
Programs, Camps & Leagues
- After‑school programs & summer camps: Available to nurture academic and creative growth
- Youth & adult sports leagues: Basketball, soccer, softball, tennis, and more
- Senior programs & events: Fitness, social activities, and cultural gatherings
- Year‑round events: Community fairs, holiday celebrations, wellness workshops
What Makes Cass Recreational Complex Unique?
What makes the Melnea A. Cass Recreational Complex special is its core mission as a **community anchor and inclusive gathering place**. Unlike standalone athletic facilities, Cass combines fitness, green spaces, education, youth development, and cultural events under one roof. The presence of a welcoming playground, community garden, and computer lab alongside athletic amenities and dance studios means that **families, seniors, athletes, artists, and learners** all find welcoming space here. It truly serves as a living tribute to Melnea Cass’s activism—nurturing equitable access and social enrichment.
Visitor Tips
- Check the online schedule: Facilities are in high demand; reserve courts or track lanes in advance
- Bring your own gear: Many programs require your own equipment—check before arriving
- Dress smart: Athletic wear for the gym and pool attire when visiting the aquatic center
- Enroll early: Camps and leagues fill fast—register before the season begins
- Parking & transit: Street parking is limited; accessible via MBTA bus routes for convenience
Local Insight: Try a Saturday Morning Family Fitness Pass
For a fun family outing, sign up for the Saturday Morning Family Fitness Pass. It gives access to the pool, gym, track, and game room at a reduced rate, with special group fitness classes scheduled. The complex buzzes with multi-generational energy—kids take swim lessons, parents enjoy cardio classes, and grandparents engage in low-impact wellness sessions. It’s a perfect snapshot of how Cass Recreational Complex brings the community together.
From pickup sports and swimming laps to dance workshops and gardening, Melnea A. Cass Recreational Complex is a year-round resource for wellness, learning, and connection in the heart of Roxbury.