They should give you a free trial day or week. Make sure you like the facility. Make sure you can easily use the machines you like at the time of day you will be at the gym.
Some gyms do not have month to month memberships, all I can say is never sign more than a year contract and make sure you can cancel the contract if you move out of town. You can also ask if they suspend the contract if you will be traveling. Most don’t suspend contracts unless it is for medical reasons.
If you are going to take classes like zumba, make sure the schedules fit your needs.
I recommend not signing up immedediately if it is a private gym. They are like car salesmen in gyms, it is disgusting. As you walk out you might get a better deal, or a follow up eamil with a better deal. If it is a gym run by the city, then probably there is not any hidden prices, discounts, or other garbage.