If your go-to Mother’s Day or Father’s Day plan usually involves brunch reservations and gift cards, consider shaking things up this year—preferably somewhere air-conditioned. Vertical Ventures (116 18th Street South), a locally rooted indoor climbing gym with 30 years of history, is giving parents a free pass to climb all day on their respective holidays, making it an easy (and fun) way to celebrate without spending a dime.
On May 10, moms climb for free all day from 10 am – 6 pm. Whether she wants to bring the family along for a shared adventure or enjoy some well-earned solo time on the wall, it’s a no-pressure way to move, play, and feel strong. Then, on Father’s Day, it’s Dad’s turn to climb free all day on June 21, because nothing says “thanks, Dad” like crushing a route together.
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A cool way to beat the heat
As temperatures creep into full Florida summer mode, air-conditioned activities quickly rise to the top of the list. Vertical Ventures checks that box while keeping things active, social, and easy to get hooked on. The gym blends fitness and fun in a way that doesn’t feel like a workout, until your forearms remind you the next day.
If you’re new to climbing, that’s no problem. The space is welcoming and low-pressure, with knowledgeable staff always nearby to help first-timers get comfortable on the wall. No experience required; just a willingness to try something new and maybe laugh at yourself along the way.
More than routes and belays
Climbing is the main event, but it’s far from the only thing happening inside Vertical Ventures. The gym offers more than 150 regularly rotated routes, keeping things fresh whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth. Both beginners and experienced climbers will always find something that fits the level of challenge they need.
Away from the wall, there’s a full training area stocked with treadmills, rowers, free weights, kettlebells, assault bikes, and more equipment—perfect for warming up, cooling down, or adding a little extra burn. Yoga classes are also offered throughout the week and led by instructors from Body Electric Yoga, making recovery and mobility part of the experience, too.
Make it a family tradition (or a solo escape)
Vertical Ventures is open from 10 am – 6 pm on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Whether you’re celebrating Mom, Dad, or both, the free-climb holidays are a great excuse to try something different together—or to gift your parents a few uninterrupted hours of movement and fun. The climbing gym makes staying active feel approachable, social, and takes the intimidation out of trying something new.
For full details and other upcoming events, check out the gym’s events calendar and follow along on Facebook and Instagram.
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