Thomas Jefferson Community Center: Visitor Guide

Arlington, Virginia · Recreation & Fitness

Plan Your Visit: Indoor Track, Pickleball, Fitness & Programs

Thomas Jefferson Community & Fitness Center, commonly called TJ Community Center, is a public recreation facility at 3501 S 2nd St, Arlington, VA 22204. Operated by Arlington County Parks & Recreation, it offers an indoor running track, pickleball, basketball, fitness equipment, a gymnasium, art spaces, youth activities and outdoor recreation.

Phone703-228-5920Community center desk
Weekday Hours7 AM–9 PMMonday through Friday
Saturday8 AM–5 PMClosed Sunday
Adult Day Pass$8 Resident$10 non-resident

Official-source information reviewed October 22, 2026. Activity schedules, facility closures and programs can change.

Important October 2026 Schedule Changes

Upcoming temporary restrictions:
  • October 22: No track access in the morning; no drop-in sports from 3:30–5:30 PM.
  • October 23: The entire center is scheduled to close at 2 PM.
  • October 27: No track access in the morning; no drop-in sports from 3:30–5:30 PM.
  • October 28: Gym unavailable until noon.

These temporary notices override regular hours for the affected areas.

If your visit depends on the track, gym or pickleball courts, call 703-228-5920 before traveling.

Thomas Jefferson Community Center Hours

DayRegular Hours
Monday7 AM–9 PM
Tuesday7 AM–9 PM
Wednesday7 AM–9 PM
Thursday7 AM–9 PM
Friday7 AM–9 PM
Saturday8 AM–5 PM
SundayClosed
Adults-only evenings: Every Tuesday and Thursday after 6:30 PM, the fitness center and TJ gym are reserved for adults ages 18 and older. Members under 18 may still use the TJ game room.

Building hours do not guarantee that a particular sport, court, class or running track is available. Schools, programs and special events can affect individual spaces.

For holiday and weather updates, use the official Thomas Jefferson facility page.

Fitness Membership & Daily Admission

Arlington County sells fitness passes covering participating community center fitness facilities, including Thomas Jefferson. Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness Center has separate membership arrangements.

Daily Passes

Adults 18–54
$8 Resident

$10 non-resident

Daily guest pass for qualifying adult visitors.

Seniors 55+
$6 Resident

$8 non-resident

Daily senior guest pass.

Fitness Membership Rates

Pass TypeArlington ResidentNon-Resident
Adult annual, ages 18–54$232$304
Adult six-month$124$165
Adult three-month$67$88
Senior Gold Pass annual, age 55+$78$109
High school continuation / college student, ages 18–25$62Not listed
Teen, ages 13–17FreeNot listed
Youth, ages 9–12Free with parent; no fitness-center accessNot listed
Important distinction: Youth recreation access and fitness-equipment access are not identical. The county’s free 9–12-year-old youth category allows facilities and gymnasium use with a parent, but excludes fitness centers.

Which Pass Makes More Sense?

Occasional Arlington Visitor

Four adult resident day visits cost $32. This can be more economical than buying a longer membership when you only visit occasionally.

Regular Workout Visitor

The $67 resident three-month pass averages about $22.33 per month. It may be useful if you plan to use the fitness center several times each week.

These are simple price comparisons; actual eligibility, pass validity, permitted facilities and membership conditions apply.

How to Purchase a Fitness Pass

  1. Choose resident or non-resident pricing. Prepare proof of Arlington County residency if applying for resident rates.
  2. Choose your age category. Adult, senior, teen and youth passes have different rules.
  3. Compare duration. Decide between daily access, three months, six months or annual membership.
  4. Review membership rules. Check the applicable use criteria before buying.
  5. Complete your purchase through Arlington County. The Thomas Jefferson Community Center is listed as a membership purchase location.

Indoor Track, Pickleball & Other Activities

The indoor track is one of Thomas Jefferson’s standout features. The center also supports a wide variety of indoor and outdoor recreation.

Indoor Fitness Indoor Running Track

Walk or run indoors without depending on outdoor weather. Track availability can be restricted during facility events.

Court Sports Pickleball

The county reports at least two indoor pickleball courts most weekday mornings until approximately 2 PM, subject to schedule changes.

Team Sports Basketball & Gym

Gymnasium space supports basketball, recreational play and scheduled programs.

Strength Fitness Equipment

Cardio machines, weight training equipment, strength stations and fitness amenities.

Recreation Game Room

Indoor leisure and recreation space, including eligible youth access during adult-only gym evenings.

Outdoors Park & Athletic Areas

Outdoor fitness equipment, tennis, playground, soccer, fitness trail and additional recreational amenities.

Pickleball planning: Morning availability is commonly highlighted by Arlington County, but courts may be occupied by programs or events. Do not assume continuous open play throughout building hours.

How to Find the Weekly Activity Schedule

  1. Choose basketball, pickleball, walking/running or another activity.
  2. Check the regular building hours above.
  3. Review the county’s weekly activity listings for TJ.
  4. Look for closures, reserved gym sessions or special programming.
  5. Call the front desk if your visit depends on an exact time.

Use the official center activity and announcement page for the live weekly schedule.

What’s Inside the Fitness Center?

Thomas Jefferson’s fitness area includes a mix of cardio and strength equipment. According to Arlington County, notable equipment includes:

Cardio Equipment
  • Matrix indoor cycles
  • Matrix treadmills
  • Matrix elliptical machines
  • Recumbent and upright bikes
  • Concept2 rowing machines
  • Matrix climb mills
  • Cybex Arc Trainers
  • NuStep and Lateral X machines
Strength Equipment
  • Selectorized Matrix machines
  • Matrix functional trainer
  • Life Fitness Smith machine
  • Free weights
  • Dumbbells up to 100 pounds
  • Locker rooms and showers
  • Indoor track access, subject to schedule

The center also offers one-on-one Pilates training in a dedicated studio.

Individual Pilates Session Prices

Single session$86
Ten-session package$763
Minimum age16 years
Cancellation notice24 hours required
Purchase expirationOne year after purchase

Pilates sessions are appointment-only. Confirm instructor availability before paying. For final booking instructions, visit the official Arlington Pilates training page.

Programs for Teens, Children & Families

Thomas Jefferson is not only for adult workouts. Arlington County offers recreation opportunities, seasonal activities and youth programming at this location.

The REC: Free After-School Teen Program

Arlington Middle School Students The REC at Thomas Jefferson
ScheduleMonday–Friday, 2:30–6 PM
CostFree
EligibilityArlington middle school students
2026 activity number720427-D
ExclusionsDays out of school and county holidays

Center-based REC activities may include games, sports, arts, cooking, music and other supervised activities depending on program offerings.

How to Enroll in The REC

  1. Confirm the child is an Arlington middle school student.
  2. Check the published program dates and school-calendar exclusions.
  3. Locate Thomas Jefferson Community Center in The REC listing.
  4. Use activity number 720427-D for the published 2026 session.
  5. Follow the official registration instructions and save confirmation.

Seasonal Youth Camps

Arlington has also hosted Fun & Fitness Camp activities at Thomas Jefferson for ages 11–14. A published 2026 listing included sports, conditioning, active games and off-site trips.

The 2026 session listing showed $305 for residents and $350 for non-residents. Those prices were specific to that session and should not be treated as confirmed prices for future camps.

Families should check camp dates, age cutoffs, lunch and transportation arrangements, enrollment deadlines, refunds and any activity-specific requirements before registering.

Art Studios & Other Recreation Programs

Thomas Jefferson includes art-related facilities and supports creative activities in addition to sports. Offerings can include pottery, visual arts and other studio-based programs, depending on the current recreation catalog.

For any class, check the following before enrolling:

  • Minimum and maximum age
  • Current dates and session length
  • Resident and non-resident prices
  • Supplies or materials fees
  • Instructor and room assignment
  • Accessibility or accommodation needs
  • Withdrawal and refund policy

Register for an Arlington Recreation Class

  1. Create an account: Use Arlington County’s official recreation registration portal.
  2. Search your activity: Enter the class name, age range or Thomas Jefferson location.
  3. Check availability: Review dates, time, instructor, fee and remaining places.
  4. Select participants: Confirm household members and any program restrictions.
  5. Review payment: Check applicable fees or reductions before submitting.
  6. Save confirmation: Keep the receipt and note the first class date.

Fee Reductions & Financial Assistance

Arlington County offers fee reductions for qualifying residents and certain eligible households. The program can apply to many Parks & Recreation services, including fitness memberships, classes and camps.

Eligibility is based on household circumstances and county requirements. The county may request:

Identity

Identity documentation for adults included in the household application.

Residency

Documents such as an Arlington-address driver’s license, lease or recent utility bill.

Financial Need

Income or benefit documents covering the household, depending on eligibility.

Useful local detail: Thomas Jefferson Community Center is listed as a location where fee-reduction documentation can be processed. Program registrations must still follow the designated registration process.

Some categories are excluded from fee reductions, including personal training, certain private adult swim sessions, adult leagues, event payments and facility rentals. Picnic shelters are an exception under the county’s stated rental exclusion.

How to Request Reduced Fees

  1. Review Arlington County eligibility requirements.
  2. Prepare identity, residency and household financial documents.
  3. Complete the county fee-reduction application.
  4. Submit it using the county’s approved process.
  5. Wait for confirmation before assuming the discounted rate applies.

Questions: AccessDPR@arlingtonva.us.

Renting Facilities & Scheduling Events

Arlington County manages facility scheduling for community spaces, activities and eligible reservations. Availability, fees, insurance requirements and approved uses depend on the exact room, time and event.

For Thomas Jefferson rental questions, contact the Arlington County Facility Scheduling Office:

Facility Scheduling Office

Phone: 703-228-4747, option 2

Email: facilitiesscheduling@arlingtonva.us

Questions to Ask Before Reserving

  • Which rooms or gym spaces are available for the event?
  • What is the approved occupancy?
  • Are there resident or nonprofit discounts?
  • Is insurance or a special permit required?
  • Does the rental include tables, chairs or equipment?
  • Is setup and cleanup included in the rental time?
  • Are food, outside vendors or decorations allowed?
  • What are payment, cancellation and refund conditions?

Do not pay a third-party website to reserve a county facility. Confirm availability and payment instructions through Arlington County.

Thomas Jefferson Community Center Map & Parking

Address

3501 S 2nd St
Arlington, VA 22204

Main Phone

703-228-5920

Parking

Arlington County lists parking as limited. Some nearby spaces are designated for school or department staff during specified times.

Arrival

Allow additional time during weekday school activity, sports programs and large events.

Parking Areas: What the County Map Says

Arlington County’s published patron parking map distinguishes several areas:

  • DPR patron parking: Marked parking spaces intended for Parks & Recreation patrons.
  • DPR staff parking: Spaces designated for Parks & Recreation staff.
  • APS staff parking: Reserved for Arlington Public Schools staff through 5 PM Monday–Friday; available to park and community center patrons after 5 PM and on weekends under the map’s stated rules.
  • Bus staging/drop-off: No parking on the designated S 2nd Street bus staging area from 7:45 AM to 3:30 PM.
Avoid a parking citation: Follow posted signs and current school/event restrictions. The county’s parking map may not reflect every temporary change or construction notice.

Accessibility, Amenities & Family Visit Tips

Arlington County lists accessible restrooms, changing rooms, drinking fountains, Wi-Fi and several indoor and outdoor amenities.

Available Amenities
  • Accessible restroom
  • Changing rooms
  • Gymnasium
  • Indoor fitness equipment
  • Drinking fountain
  • Wi-Fi
  • Game room
  • Outdoor playground
Before a Family Visit
  • Check children’s age and supervision rules.
  • Verify available gym or game-room hours.
  • Bring suitable sports or fitness footwear.
  • Ask whether equipment is supplied.
  • Arrive early for program check-in.
  • Check accessible entrance details if needed.

For specific mobility accommodations, accessible parking, assistive equipment, program support or building access questions, call the center in advance.

Contact the Correct Department

PurposeContact
Thomas Jefferson Center Desk703-228-5920
Facility ManagerChris Clarke
CClarke@arlingtonva.us
Facility Scheduling703-228-4747, option 2
facilitiesscheduling@arlingtonva.us
Weather / Closing Information703-228-4715
Youth and Teen ProgramsDPR-YouthandFamily@arlingtonva.us
Fee ReductionsAccessDPR@arlingtonva.us

Before You Leave Home: Visitor Checklist

  • Confirm regular hours and any special closures.
  • Check track or court availability for your activity.
  • Determine whether you need a fitness pass.
  • Choose correct resident or non-resident pricing.
  • Bring identification or required membership information.
  • Check age restrictions for youth or adult-only activities.
  • Save registration confirmation if attending a class.
  • Review parking restrictions and accessible entrance needs.
  • Call if your activity must happen at a specific time.

Other Useful Community Center Guides

For a broader comparison of recreation facilities, fitness access and visitor requirements, these published guides may help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Thomas Jefferson Community Center located?

Thomas Jefferson Community & Fitness Center is located at 3501 S 2nd St, Arlington, VA 22204. The main phone number is 703-228-5920.

What are Thomas Jefferson Community Center hours?

The regular hours are Monday through Friday 7 AM–9 PM, Saturday 8 AM–5 PM, and Sunday closed. Special events and temporary closures can affect access.

Is Thomas Jefferson Community Center open on Sunday?

No. Arlington County lists the community center as closed on Sundays.

Does Thomas Jefferson Community Center have an indoor running track?

Yes. The center has an indoor running track. However, scheduled activities and facility events can restrict track access on specific dates or times.

Can I play pickleball at Thomas Jefferson Community Center?

Yes. Arlington County lists indoor pickleball and reports at least two courts during most weekday mornings until around 2 PM. Actual availability depends on the activity schedule.

How much is a daily fitness pass at Thomas Jefferson?

For adults ages 18–54, daily passes cost $8 for Arlington residents and $10 for non-residents. For seniors ages 55 and older, passes cost $6 for residents and $8 for non-residents.

Are there adult-only hours at Thomas Jefferson?

Yes. On Tuesday and Thursday evenings after 6:30 PM, the fitness center and gym are reserved for adults age 18 and older. Younger members may still use the TJ game room.

Does Thomas Jefferson Community Center offer teen programs?

Yes. The REC offers free after-school programming for Arlington middle school students at Thomas Jefferson, normally Monday through Friday from 2:30 PM to 6 PM on eligible school days.

Is there parking at Thomas Jefferson Community Center?

Yes, but Arlington County describes parking as limited. The county parking map identifies designated recreation patron spaces, staff spaces, school-related restrictions and bus staging areas.

Who should I contact about facility rentals?

Contact Arlington County’s Facility Scheduling Office at 703-228-4747, option 2, or email facilitiesscheduling@arlingtonva.us for information about availability, rental rules and reservations.