Jewish Community Center New Orleans: Programs & Map

Greater New Orleans, Louisiana • JCC Visitor Guide • October 2026

Jewish Community Center New Orleans: Fitness, Pools, Families & Culture

The Jewish Community Center New Orleans (New Orleans JCC) is a nonprofit community organization with facilities in Uptown New Orleans and nearby Metairie. Its programming brings together fitness, aquatics, early childhood education, summer camps, youth sports, adult learning, social activities and Jewish cultural events.

Although the JCC is guided by Jewish values and traditions, membership and programs welcome people of all faiths and backgrounds. You do not need to be Jewish to join.

Some recreation facilities require membership, while particular community events or programs may admit nonmembers. Always check the specific activity’s registration and admission rules before arriving.

Uptown JCC5342 St. Charles Ave.New Orleans, LA
Metairie JCC3747 W. EsplanadeMetairie, LA
Uptown Phone504-897-0143Membership & activities
Metairie Phone504-887-5158Membership & activities

Reviewed October 20, 2026. Program availability, pool schedules, holiday operations and fitness facilities may change. Verify the activity at your chosen campus.

New Orleans JCC Locations: Uptown vs. Metairie

New Orleans JCC — Uptown

5342 St. Charles Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70115

504-897-0143

Fitness, group exercise, indoor and outdoor swimming, youth activities, Early Childhood Center, older-adult programming, cultural events and event rentals.

Goldring-Woldenberg JCC — Metairie

3747 W. Esplanade Avenue
Metairie, LA 70002

504-887-5158

Fitness center, gymnasium, indoor track, group exercise, pickleball, outdoor seasonal aquatics, youth activities and family programming.

Choose your location before registering. The two campuses have different pools, certain different fitness features, distinct contacts and separate seasonal programs. Some membership levels cover both campuses, while others limit access.

New Orleans JCC Hours: Both Campuses

The JCC’s current published fitness center hours are the same at Uptown and Metairie.

DayUptown FitnessMetairie Fitness
Monday–Thursday5:30 AM–9 PM5:30 AM–9 PM
Friday5:30 AM–6 PM5:30 AM–6 PM
Saturday8 AM–6:45 PM8 AM–6:45 PM
Sunday8 AM–6:45 PM8 AM–6:45 PM

Membership Tours

The organization offers walk-in membership tours on weekdays between 9 AM and 5 PM. No advance tour appointment is necessary, but visitors should bring a valid photo ID.

Activity Hours Are Separate

  • Swimming pools have their own seasonal and daily schedules.
  • Indoor basketball and pickleball depend on gymnasium calendars.
  • Group exercise classes are held at specific times.
  • Early Childhood Center and camp hours are program-specific.
  • Rental events follow approved booking arrangements.
  • Religious and public holidays may result in closures or reduced hours.
Seasonal caution: The JCC sometimes adjusts its hours for Jewish holidays. Do not use ordinary Friday or weekend fitness hours to predict opening times during a holiday.
Official Hours, Pool & Gym Calendars

2026 JCC Membership: Gold, Silver & Metairie Gold

The New Orleans JCC offers three primary membership levels. Each has different facility privileges.

Universal Gold

Full access to eligible fitness and recreation amenities at the Uptown and Metairie campuses, including group exercise and towel service.

Universal Silver

Access to outdoor pools and basketball courts at both locations. Does not include the fitness centers or JCC towel service.

Metairie Gold

Full access to the Metairie fitness facility plus the Uptown outdoor pools and basketball court, with towel service included.

Published 2026 Monthly Dues

Household CategoryUniversal GoldSilverMetairie Gold
Individual adult$102$80$80
Couple$141$95$105
One adult + children$125$85$100
Two adults + children$155$101$115
Senior individual, 68+$60$45$48
Senior couple, 68+$80$50$55

Joining Fees and Additional Assessment

MembershipPublished Joining Fee
Universal Gold$125
Universal SilverGenerally $125; senior categories list $75
Metairie Gold$75

Universal Gold and Universal Silver also have a published $2 monthly building assessment, which is not included in the standard monthly dues.

Example: An individual Universal Gold membership has published dues of $102 monthly, plus the $2 monthly building assessment, and a $125 one-time joining fee. Ask Membership for the exact amount due at enrollment.

Membership eligibility and child-related household definitions depend on the JCC’s stated age, student and household rules.

Official 2026 Membership Rates

How to Join the New Orleans JCC

  1. Choose your campus. Decide whether you primarily need Uptown, Metairie or access to both.
  2. Compare membership benefits. Determine whether Universal Silver provides enough access or whether fitness facilities require Gold.
  3. Review the monthly cost. Include the joining fee and any building assessment.
  4. Take a tour. Walk-in tours are available Monday–Friday from 9 AM–5 PM with photo ID.
  5. Confirm program needs. Ask about group exercise, family pool access, childcare, sports leagues or youth activities.
  6. Contact Membership. Speak with the appropriate campus team about eligibility and enrollment.
  7. Read the agreement. Review billing, automatic renewal, freeze and cancellation conditions.
  8. Complete registration. Follow the official membership team’s instructions and retain your confirmation.

Uptown Membership: membership@nojcc.org
Metairie Membership: metairiemembership@nojcc.org.

Insurance-Based Memberships

The JCC identifies the following insurance-related wellness memberships:

  • Metairie: SilverSneakers and UnitedHealthcare Renew Active.
  • Uptown: UnitedHealthcare Renew Active.

Coverage is subject to each individual’s insurance plan, eligibility and the participating location’s program terms. Ask Membership to verify your benefit before assuming your access is free.

Membership Billing, Changes & Cancellation

The New Orleans JCC publishes automatic payment and cancellation procedures for ongoing memberships.

Monthly Billing

Monthly membership payments are generally drafted on the 15th of each month. The JCC offers credit/debit card and bank-draft arrangements.

Cancellation

The membership agreement requires 30 days’ written cancellation notice to avoid further automatic charges under the stated billing policy.

Membership Changes and Freezes

Existing members can request changes through the official membership-change process. Freeze eligibility, monthly fees and change-processing deadlines depend on the current written policy.

Before signing: Membership is not necessarily a simple pay-as-you-go arrangement. Read the cancellation notice requirement and billing dates, especially if joining temporarily or expecting a move.
Review Current Membership Terms

Fitness Centers, Classes & Wellness Programs

Fitness is a major part of the JCC’s services. Universal Gold membership is the main tier providing full use of the fitness facilities at both locations.

Cardio & Strength

Exercise equipment, resistance machines and weight-training resources according to each campus layout.

Group Exercise

Scheduled workouts, cycling, yoga, Pilates and other classes depending on the campus timetable.

Personal Training

One-on-one training and assessment services, with additional fees for eligible sessions.

Specialized Fitness

Selected programs such as small-group training and reformer Pilates may have separate fees.

Sports & Courts

Basketball and designated court activities following published gymnasium schedules.

Family Support

Age-appropriate youth and family offerings that can make regular fitness visits easier for parents.

How to Book a Group Exercise Class

  1. Open the JCC’s official group exercise schedule.
  2. Select your campus and preferred class.
  3. Check that your membership level includes the activity.
  4. Sign in to the official Member Portal.
  5. Reserve an available space.
  6. Read equipment, arrival and cancellation instructions.
  7. Attend the scheduled session and follow staff guidance.

The Member Portal allows advance reservations for supported activities, generally up to seven days ahead.

Uptown health club renovation: The JCC’s fall 2026 program guide reports ongoing renovation of its Uptown health club, with completion anticipated in May 2027. Check temporary arrangements and equipment access before purchasing a membership mainly for particular Uptown fitness amenities.

Swimming Pools: Uptown vs. Metairie in October 2026

Both JCC campuses provide aquatic programming, but pool availability differs considerably in autumn.

Uptown Outdoor Lap Pool

The Uptown outdoor pool offers year-round lap swimming for swimmers age 13 and older. The JCC’s schedule effective September 30, 2026, lists:

DayLap Swim
Monday–Thursday5:30 AM–12 PM and 3:30–7 PM
Friday5:30 AM–12 PM
Saturday–Sunday9:30 AM–5 PM

On Saturdays and Sundays, recreational swimming is also listed in designated lap-pool lanes from 1–4 PM, without the family pool or splash pad.

Uptown Family Pool & Splash Pad

The 2026 family recreational swim season, including splash pad and family-pool access, ended on September 29. Do not assume the water-play amenities are open during an October visit.

Metairie Outdoor Pool

The Metairie outdoor pool has closed for the 2026 season. The JCC currently states that it will reopen in spring 2027.

October 2026 swimming choice: Visitors looking for regular outdoor lap swimming should check the Uptown schedule. Metairie’s seasonal outdoor pool is not currently operating.

Pool Rules and Guest Access

  • Pool guests are subject to current member-guest policies and fees.
  • Members can bring up to three guests under the JCC’s stated pool guest policy.
  • Preregistration can speed guest check-in.
  • Children may need swim testing and supervision based on ability.
  • Staffing, maintenance, swim lessons and private events can change availability.
Official Aquatics & Live Pool Schedules

Swimming Lessons, Swim Teams & Aquatic Fitness

New Orleans JCC offers swimming instruction and aquatic programming through its aquatics department. Programs may include:

  • Infant and parent-child swim instruction.
  • Preschool and school-age swimming lessons.
  • Adult swimming lessons.
  • Swimming skill development and swim team.
  • Water-based fitness classes.
  • Private swimming lessons where offered.

Lesson ages, class times, instructor availability and fees are determined by the current aquatics program listings.

How to Register for Swim Lessons

  1. Open the aquatics page for your preferred location.
  2. Check whether lessons are available at that campus this season.
  3. Choose the participant’s appropriate age and ability level.
  4. Review the available class times and prices.
  5. Confirm membership requirements and applicable discounts.
  6. Register through the official JCC program system.
  7. Save the lesson confirmation and review swimming safety rules.
Metairie lesson availability: The JCC has reported a hold on swim lessons at Metairie, with lessons being offered at Uptown. Confirm the current arrangement instead of assuming both campuses have identical lesson schedules.

Basketball, Pickleball & Indoor Recreation

Both campuses have gymnasiums used for recreation and scheduled sports.

Uptown Basketball

The Pasternack Family Gymnasium supports basketball, scheduled recreation activities and other gym-based programs.

Metairie Basketball

The Metairie gymnasium offers scheduled open-gym activities. Space may be shared with organized programs and pickleball.

Metairie Pickleball

Open pickleball is offered through scheduled periods. Member access and guest requirements depend on current policies.

Youth Sports

Children’s and teens’ recreation programs vary by age, enrollment period and campus.

Before Joining an Open Gym Session

  1. Check the gym calendar for the correct campus.
  2. Confirm whether basketball, pickleball or another activity is scheduled.
  3. Check membership or guest-access eligibility.
  4. Ask about equipment availability and supervision requirements.
  5. Follow posted court rotation and safety rules.

Do not assume the gymnasium remains open for basketball throughout the fitness center’s entire operating day.

Current Basketball & Gym Schedules

Early Childhood Education & Youth Programs

The New Orleans JCC supports early childhood learning as well as activities for school-age children and teens.

Early Childhood Center

The Early Childhood Center emphasizes hands-on, developmentally appropriate learning, creativity, movement, exploration and Jewish cultural values.

Programs may incorporate music, art, outdoor play, movement and age-appropriate enrichment.

Early Childhood Enrollment

Families interested in the center should:

  1. Review the Early Childhood Center’s official program description.
  2. Join the prospective family interest list.
  3. Arrange a tour when available.
  4. Ask about age eligibility and classroom openings.
  5. Review tuition and registration charges.
  6. Confirm JCC membership requirements for enrolled families.
  7. Complete enrollment only after receiving an offered space and registration instructions.

Other Youth Activities

  • Sports and movement programs.
  • Creative arts and educational enrichment.
  • School-break mini camps.
  • Social activities for children and teens.
  • Family events and holiday celebrations.
  • Summer camp programming.
Class location matters: Some youth programs operate at Uptown, some at Metairie, and some have school or campus-specific requirements. Verify the exact address on every registration confirmation.

Summer Camp 2027: Enrollment & Planning

The New Orleans JCC has published information for its summer 2027 camp season.

Important Registration Dates

  • October 19, 2026: Registration opens for returning camp families and Early Childhood Center families.
  • November 16, 2026: Community registration opens.

Camp Enrollment Requirements

  • Applications are handled on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Campers must enroll in a minimum of four weeks.
  • Accepted registrations require a $100 deposit when a space is secured.
  • A JCC membership in good standing is required to secure a camper’s place.
  • Campus, age group, session availability and camp activities vary.

How to Apply

  1. Visit the official JCC summer camp page.
  2. Choose the appropriate Uptown or Metairie camp division.
  3. Check eligibility and the relevant registration opening date.
  4. Complete the application for your camper.
  5. Wait for confirmation of a place.
  6. Follow membership verification and deposit requirements.
  7. Complete health, emergency-contact and pickup forms.
  8. Review your session details before camp begins.

Uptown camp: uptowncamp@nojcc.org
Metairie camp: metairiecamp@nojcc.org.

Official Summer Camp 2027

Active Adults, Cultural Arts & Community Events

The JCC offers much more than athletics. Its adult and community programs include lifelong learning, Jewish cultural events, social activities and arts programming.

Active Adults 60+

Social, educational and wellness programming designed for older adults.

Book Clubs

Literary reviews, discussions and selected author-related programs.

Jewish Cultural Arts

Lectures, performances, films, author events and community cultural programming.

Creative Classes

Art, dance, crafts and other enrichment activities, subject to seasonal offerings.

Holiday Programs

Jewish holiday gatherings and celebrations for different ages.

Community Engagement

Volunteer opportunities, social gatherings and activities connecting New Orleans residents.

Fall 2026 Cultural Programming

The fall program guide highlights literary events, performances, cooking-related cultural programs and special celebrations.

It also announces a November 7, 2026 Center Celebration marking 60 years of the organization’s St. Charles Avenue building.

How to Attend an Event

  1. Open the JCC events calendar.
  2. Choose an event by date, audience or interest.
  3. Check whether it is at Uptown or Metairie.
  4. Review admission prices and member discounts.
  5. Complete RSVP or ticket registration if required.
  6. Follow the event’s arrival and parking instructions.

Not every cultural event requires a full gym membership. Admission arrangements depend on the individual event.

Uptown JCC Room Rentals & Private Events

The Uptown New Orleans JCC rents spaces for gatherings ranging from small meetings to larger celebrations and performances.

Types of Events

  • Work meetings and conferences.
  • Team-building activities.
  • Bar and bat mitzvah celebrations.
  • Private dinners and luncheons.
  • Community forums.
  • Concerts and theatrical performances.
  • Social gatherings and classes.

Published Rental Rules

ItemCurrent Published Rule
Most rental spacesTwo-hour minimum
Mintz AuditoriumThree-hour minimum
Potential evening/weekend receptionist$15 per hour
Pool-rental lifeguard charge$30 per hour
Booking paymentPublished 50% nonrefundable deposit
Remaining balanceDue 24 hours before the event under the summary rental terms
Additional securityMay be required for larger events

The official rental FAQ also discusses a security deposit and possible variations in payment terms, so the signed event agreement is the definitive source for your deposit, due dates and refund rules.

Rental Prices

The JCC does not provide a single universal hourly price for every rental space on its main rentals page. Rates depend on the room, date, equipment, event size and staffing requirements.

Request a written quote: Avoid assuming a general room-rental price without confirmation. Rental costs may include audiovisual equipment, staffing, additional setup or breakdown time, security or other event requirements.

Rental Contact

Events and Rentals: elagarde@nojcc.org.

Official Venue Rentals & Inquiry Form

How to Book an Event at the JCC

  1. Identify your event type. Decide whether you need a meeting room, auditorium, performance space or outdoor area.
  2. Estimate attendance. Include organizers, guests, performers and vendors.
  3. Choose possible dates. Provide your preferred date and alternatives.
  4. Prepare technical requirements. Note any audiovisual, staging, kitchen or catering needs.
  5. Submit an inquiry. Complete the official JCC rental request form.
  6. Discuss availability. The Events and Rentals Manager will review the request and contact you.
  7. Request the full quote. Ask about the hourly price, minimum booking period, staffing, security and other charges.
  8. Confirm event policies. Discuss food, alcohol, parking, insurance and required permits.
  9. Sign the agreement. Complete the official event contract and applicable payments.
  10. Keep confirmation. Do not announce the venue as secured until the booking is accepted.

The JCC recommends making inquiries at least one month ahead for events with up to 100 attendees. Larger events may require more preparation time.

Birthday Parties & Pool Parties

The JCC offers birthday-party and pool-party options with different rules and seasonal availability.

Uptown Pool Party Package

The published outdoor pool-party package starts at $350 for a two-hour celebration.

The package includes:

  • Up to 20 participating guests.
  • Two hours of party time.
  • Ice and paper goods.
  • Staff assistance with setup and cleanup of the party area.
  • Use of approved outdoor pool facilities during the scheduled rental.

Additional children are listed at $10 each, up to a maximum of 30 participating children. Swimming guests must follow pool-testing and supervision procedures.

October 2026 Availability

The organization indicates that normal summer outdoor pool-party operations have finished and are expected to return in spring 2027. An inquiry may still be possible for a permitted weather-dependent Uptown rental, but the event is not guaranteed.

The JCC states that indoor pool parties are not currently offered.

Food and Safety Requirements

  • Children must follow required swimming tests and any wristband rules.
  • Parents and organizers must comply with staff supervision requirements.
  • Shellfish and pork products are not allowed at JCC pool celebrations.
  • Weather can interrupt or require rescheduling of an outdoor pool event.
  • Review payment and cancellation conditions before booking.
Official Pool Party Prices & Rules

Parking, Directions & Public Transportation

Uptown

5342 St. Charles Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70115

Located along the St. Charles Avenue corridor in Uptown New Orleans.

Metairie

3747 W. Esplanade Avenue
Metairie, LA 70002

Located on the Goldring-Woldenberg Jewish Community Campus.

Uptown Parking

The JCC’s rental guidance identifies designated parking spaces on Leontine and Atlanta Streets. Unmetered street parking is available on nearby streets, subject to local signs and availability.

Large events and busy recreational periods may increase parking demand. Ask the event organizer or front desk if you need accessible arrival assistance.

Uptown Public Transportation

The St. Charles Avenue corridor is served by public transit, including the St. Charles streetcar. Check the Regional Transit Authority’s current route and service information before traveling.

Metairie Parking

The Metairie campus has its own parking arrangements. Follow current signs, event instructions and staff directions. For a large event or an accessibility question, call 504-887-5158.

First-Time Visitor Checklist

  • Confirm the correct campus: Uptown or Metairie.
  • Check the current fitness hours and any holiday closures.
  • For swimming, use the pool-specific calendar rather than ordinary building hours.
  • Remember that Metairie’s outdoor pool is closed for the season as of October 2026.
  • Ask how the Uptown health club renovation affects equipment or classes.
  • Check whether the activity requires membership or separate registration.
  • Bring photo ID for a weekday membership tour.
  • Compare Gold, Silver and Metairie Gold access before joining.
  • Review the membership agreement’s cancellation and billing rules.
  • For a child’s class or camp, verify age requirements and exact location.
  • For events, request an approved written rental quote.
  • Plan for parking and any campus check-in procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is the Jewish Community Center in New Orleans?

The New Orleans JCC has an Uptown location at 5342 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70115, and a Metairie location at 3747 W. Esplanade Avenue, Metairie, LA 70002.

2. What are New Orleans JCC’s regular fitness hours?

Both campuses list Monday–Thursday 5:30 AM–9 PM, Friday 5:30 AM–6 PM, and Saturday–Sunday 8 AM–6:45 PM. Pools, classes and holiday operations have separate schedules.

3. Do you have to be Jewish to join New Orleans JCC?

No. New Orleans JCC welcomes people of all religious and cultural backgrounds. Membership levels determine access to fitness facilities, aquatics and other recreational amenities.

4. How much does New Orleans JCC membership cost in 2026?

Published individual adult monthly rates are $102 for Universal Gold, $80 for Universal Silver and $80 for Metairie Gold, with joining fees and applicable assessments charged separately.

5. What is the difference between Gold and Silver membership?

Universal Gold provides full eligible access to both campuses, including fitness facilities. Universal Silver provides access to outdoor pools and basketball courts at both locations but does not include fitness-center access.

6. Does New Orleans JCC have swimming pools?

Yes. Uptown offers year-round outdoor lap swimming and seasonal family recreation. Metairie’s outdoor pool is seasonal and has closed for fall 2026, with reopening planned for spring 2027.

7. Does New Orleans JCC offer children’s programs and summer camp?

Yes. Programs include early childhood education, youth sports, enrichment, school-break activities and summer camp. Summer 2027 camp registration opens October 19, 2026, for eligible returning families and November 16 for the broader community.

8. Does New Orleans JCC offer events for adults and seniors?

Yes. The JCC offers active-adult programs, book clubs, cultural arts, community events, educational activities and seasonal Jewish celebrations. Individual events have their own admission rules.

9. Can I rent the New Orleans JCC for an event?

Yes. The Uptown campus offers meeting and event spaces. Most rentals have a two-hour minimum, while Mintz Auditorium has a three-hour minimum. Contact the JCC rentals team for a written quote and availability.

10. How can I visit or tour New Orleans JCC?

Walk-in membership tours are available on weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM. Bring valid photo ID. Call 504-897-0143 for Uptown or 504-887-5158 for Metairie to confirm visitor arrangements.

Official New Orleans JCC Sources & Resources

This independent visitor guide is not affiliated with or operated by the New Orleans Jewish Community Center. All access, fees, programs, membership terms and event bookings are governed by the organization’s official policies and current schedules.