Kids are out on summer break and it’s getting hot, hot, hot in the City of Oaks. Raleigh is home to splash pads and eight public pools for folks to dip their toes in.
Note: Though these spaces are public, all public pools and some splash pads may require payment. Make sure to fully read each location’s rules and regulations. Now, let’s dive in.
Splash pads
John Chavis Memorial Park, 505 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Raleigh | Newly redone + open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Moore Square, 201 S. Blount St., Raleigh | Interactive water feature open until November
Jack Smith Park, 9725 Penny Rd., Cary | Cary’s first splash pad — open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Summer pools
Biltmore Pool, 701 Crown Crossing Ln., Raleigh | Wade pool, lap and recreational main pool
Lake Johnson Pool, 5863 Jaguar Park Dr., Raleigh | Large spray ground, wade pool, and lap + recreational main pool
Longview Pool, 321 Bertie Dr., Raleigh | Wade pool, lap and recreational main pool
Ridge Road Pool, 1709 Ridge Rd., Raleigh | Wade pool, spray ground, and lap + recreational main pool
Year-round pools
Buffaloe Road Aquatic Center, 5908 Buffaloe Rd., Raleigh | Closed until further notice, check the website for details. Three-story waterslide, lazy river, water vortex, lap lanes, and tot-sized play area
Millbrook Exchange Pool, 1905 Spring Forest Rd., Raleigh | Indoor lap pool and wading pool
Optimist Pool, 5902 Whittier Dr., Raleigh | Indoor Olympic-sized lap pool, wading pool, and lap + recreational swimming
Pullen Aquatic Center, 410 Ashe Ave., Raleigh | Indoor warm water therapy pool and diving board
Reminder: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and to have fun.
