Climb, work, eat, and connect. That's just a taste of what's to come at Vertical Climbing and Fitness, a new community-driven facility anticipated to open in Kannapolis by the end of 2027.

"I've been a climber for more than 20 years, and I would always hear other people say, 'I wish they had this' or 'I wish we had that,' so I started documenting it," Owner Dustin Griffin told CLTtoday. "We sent out surveys and got over 500 responses, which solidified the need for a space like this in the community... This is powered by the people."

The new 30,000-sqft fitness facility at Afton Ridge will feature a variety of amenities, including 55-ft climbing walls, two levels of bouldering, a strength-training facility, saunas, a yoga studio, and a massage studio.

A video tour of a diorama of an indoor climbing facility, showing all white walls, a large climbing structure, and various people standing about. — Get a peek at the peak coming to Vertical Climbing and Fitness. | Video via Vertical Climbing and Fitness

Bonus: Visitors will also find a cafe, featuring local brews and bites, and a coworking space — the announcement is coming soon.

"The cafe will look like The Shire," explained Griffin. "We want it to be cozy, with warm lighting, low noise, a lot of seating, and we've got quiet spaces planned out in the co-working space."

Day passes will start at $28 and include access to all amenities. Memberships will be $89 per month, with exclusive perks for founding members. An exact opening date remains TBA — keep an eye on your inbox for updates.