Crux Climbing Center, Austin

Crux Climbing Center makes it easy for folks who've never even climbed a flight of stairs to scale mountains. Every visit starts with a quick orientation to show newbies the ropes (literally), and first-timers even get free rental gear. Armed with harnesses and climbing shoes, newly-minted climbers hit the 22,000 square foot arena to try their powdered hand at rope climbing and bouldering. They can also jump into classes that cover just about everything, including how to fall without injuring yourself. For people looking to up their wall-scaling game, the studio also leads fitness and yoga classes, and includes a strength training area.