When summer hits the Mile High City, there's no better way to cool off than at one of Denver's outdoor pools. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot with slides or a serene swim in the sun, Denver has you covered. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of your options, from city-run pools to private neighborhood retreats.
Public Outdoor Pools
Denver Outdoor Pools
Denver Parks & Recreation operates 16 outdoor pools, offering open swim, lap swim, and lessons. The 2025 season runs from June 9 to August 10, with closures on June 19 and July 4 for holidays. Note that Swansea and Mestizo-Curtis pools will remain closed this season due to maintenance.
Featured Pools:
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Aztlan Pool – Located in the Highland neighborhood, this pool offers a vibrant community atmosphere.
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Barnum Pool – Situated in the Barnum area, known for its family-friendly environment.
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Berkeley Pool – A popular spot in the Berkeley neighborhood, ideal for leisurely swims.
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Congress Park Pool – Nestled in the Congress Park area, offering a serene setting.
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Harvard Gulch Pool – Located near the University of Denver, great for students and locals alike.
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La Alma Pool – In the La Alma/Lincoln Park neighborhood, known for its cultural richness.
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Montclair Pool – Situated in the Montclair area, offering a quiet retreat.
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Swansea Pool – Located in the Elyria-Swansea neighborhood; note that this pool is closed for the 2025 season.
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Mestizo-Curtis Pool – In the Five Points area; also closed for the 2025 season.
Outdoor pool passes for the 2025 season:
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Youth (2–18 years): $20
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Young Adult (19–24 years): $35
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Adult (25–64 years): $50
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Senior (65+ years) / Persons with Disabilities: $30
For the full list of pools and schedules, visit the Denver Parks & Recreation website.
Aurora Outdoor Pools
Aurora's outdoor pools opened on May 24 and will remain operational through September 1. Drop-in fees start at $6 for adults, with most pools opening at 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. Additionally, two spray grounds at Great Plains Park and Red-Tailed Hawk Park are open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Featured Pools:
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Aqua Vista Pool – Located in the Aqua Vista neighborhood, offering a family-friendly environment.
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Del Mar Pool – Situated in Del Mar Park, known for its spacious layout.
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Meadow Hills Pool – In the Meadow Hills area, offering a serene setting.
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Parklane Pool – Located in the Parklane neighborhood, great for community gatherings.
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Pheasant Run Pool – Situated in the Pheasant Run area, ideal for families.
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Village Green Pool – Located in the Village Green neighborhood, offering a peaceful retreat.
For more information, visit the City of Aurora Pools & Swimming page.
Lakewood Outdoor Pools
Lakewood's outdoor pools at Carmody and Glennon Heights, along with the Surfside Spray Park, opened on May 24. Additional facilities at Morse Park and Ray Ross Park are expected to open by mid-June.
Featured Pools:
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Carmody Recreation Center Pool – Offers a variety of aquatic programs and amenities.
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Glennon Heights Pool – Known for its community-focused environment.
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Morse Park Pool – Set to open mid-June, providing additional recreational options.
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Ray Ross Park Splash Pad – A fun spot for kids to cool off during the summer.
Admission:
Access is included for residents with recreation center memberships. For the most up-to-date schedules and information, visit the City of Lakewood Pools and Splash page.
Neighborhood & Community Pools
Central Park MCA Pools
The Central Park Master Community Association operates seven outdoor pools, each with unique features:
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Splash Landing Pool: Features two water slides.
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Aviator Pool: Offers various adult and youth programming.
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F-15 Pool: Equipped with lap lanes and ample shade.
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Runway 35 Pool: Designed for competitive swimming with a focus on swim team programming.
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Puddle Jumper Pool: Shallow with a zero-entry design, ideal for young children.
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Jet Stream Pool: Inspired by the Hamptons, perfect for sunbathing and play.
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Maverick Pool: Mid-century modern design, family-friendly leisure pool.
Community pools are open to the public and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Visitors must present a current resident membership (Active Pass) or pay the entrance fee to enter the pools.
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Nonmember Resident & Nonresident fee (Monday – Friday): $10
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Nonmember Resident & Nonresident fee (Saturday – Sunday): $10
Hotel Pools worth Checking Out
Halcyon, a Hotel in Cherry Creek
Offers a rooftop pool experience with day passes starting at $59. Amenities include drink service, food, and towels.
The Westin Denver Downtown
Features a rooftop pool with day passes starting at $35. Guests can enjoy food and drink service, a gym, and other amenities.
The Rally Hotel
Home to the Skybridge Rooftop Deck & Plunge Pool, offering city skyline views and a heated pool. Access is available to hotel guests.
Private Pool Rentals
Swimply
For a more private experience, Swimply offers hourly rentals of private pools in the Denver area. Options range from resort-style pools with slides to serene backyard settings. Prices vary based on amenities and group size.
Water Parks & Private Clubs
Water World
Located in Federal Heights, Water World spans 70 acres and features a variety of attractions, including the Mile High Flyer coaster, family-friendly rides, and a lazy river. Admission starts at $50.99, and the park operates daily from 10 a.m., weather permitting.
Paradice Island Pool at Pioneer Park
This community water park offers slides, a lazy river, and play areas suitable for all ages. It's a great spot for family outings during the summer months.
Elitch Gardens Water Park
2000 Elitch Cir, Denver, CO 80204
Perfect for thrill-seekers, with waterslides, lazy river, and wave pool.
The Denver Athletic Club
1325 Glenarm Pl, Denver, CO 80204
Exclusive rooftop pool with a downtown skyline view.
University Club of Denver
1673 Sherman St, Denver, CO 80203
Traditional club with great swimming amenities.
Tips for a Great Pool Day
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Most city pools are low-cost.
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Bring your own towel, sunscreen, and water.
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Check online for operating hours, capacity updates, and special events.
Whether you're swimming laps, floating with friends, or entertaining kids on a sunny afternoon, Denver's pool scene has something for everyone. So dive in and make the most of summer in the city!
Did we miss your favorite swimming spot? Let us know!
If you liked this post, check out:
The Denver Group's Guide to 2025 Free Days
