Okay so last weekend I finally got around to checking out Nelson Sports Complex after hearing folks at work rave about it. Seriously, people wouldn’t shut up about how much stuff there was to do! My plan? Just dive in headfirst and see what was actually fun, not just popular. Grabbed my gym bag, tossed in my usual sneakers, swim trunks just in case, and hit the road.
The Initial Lookaround
First thing hitting me when I parked was just the size of the place. Bigger than I pictured. Walked in past the main entrance and felt that blast of AC – super welcome ’cause Oregon decided to turn up the heat that day. The lobby was buzzing, families, groups of friends, you name it. Snagged a map from the info counter. Guy behind it was real friendly, pointed out the major spots. Felt a bit like planning a mini-expedition.
Diving Into My Top 5 Picks
Started wandering, trying different spots based on what looked interesting and what had space. Here’s the stuff that actually rocked my Saturday:
- Indoor Tennis Courts: Ended up watching folks play for a bit. Didn’t have my racket, but damn, the courts looked pristine, lights bright, and the smack of the balls sounded super satisfying. Saw folks laughing, totally into it. Definitely signing up next time I come prepared.
- Pickup Basketball: Heard the bouncing way before I saw the court. Stuck my head in – packed gym full of guys and girls just running hard, sweating buckets. Energy was contagious! Wished I’d brought my worn-out basketball shoes then and there. The pickup scene here looked legit intense but friendly.
- Lap Swimming Pool: Needed a cooldown after all the walking. Pool area was surprisingly quiet compared to the gym. Water felt amazing. Did a few lazy laps – not exactly breaking records, but just gliding through that cool water? Perfect reset. Saw some folks seriously training though, strokes smooth as glass.
- Rock Climbing Wall: Almost walked past this tucked-away corner. Bright colors drew me in. Watched some kids scramble up like little spiders. Staff were harnessed up, helping beginners. I chickened out this time (‘forgot’ my bravery, yeah right), but it looked seriously fun. Maybe once I lift more than groceries…
- Walking/Jogging Track: Circled back upstairs and found this elevated track overlooking the main courts. Perfect spot for people-watching or getting some steps in without baking outside. Soft surface, not crowded. Did a few easy laps just soaking in the whole busy, active vibe of the place. Felt good even at my slow pace.
Wrapping Up The Day
Finished up feeling sweaty, a bit tired, but honestly pumped? Grabbed a huge bottle of water from the vending machine near the lockers – chugged half of it before even leaving the building. Sat in my car for a minute, just decompressing. It wasn’t just one thing; it was the sheer variety that made the difference. Something for every mood. Totally get the hype now. Didn’t get to try everything, but that just means I gotta go back, right? Next time, basketball shoes and maybe some climbing courage are mandatory packing.
Sometimes you just gotta show up and wander. Found some gems. Boom.
