The view from the top of the Memorial Stairs definitely makes the 11 story climb worthwhile! Although I may curse those super-fit athletes flying past me with their 10kg kettle-bells, the feeling when you finish is worth the sweaty trek to the top.
These stairs are a great year-round workout and are especially popular with the after-work young professional crowd around 5pm. If you have the flexibility to wait until 6pm, you will get a bit more breathing room. Summer and winter, the river and city views are stunning.
All in all, a fabulous and free (!) workout worth every step!