Swimming and summer go hand in hand, but if Mom and Dad are going to put in the extreme effort to pack everything a swim day entails, the pool or splash pad has got to be worth it!
We’ve made a list of our favorite pools and splash pads, including a few we haven’t visited yet. They all made the list because they aren’t too packed (on weekdays); they’re relatively safe for all ages; they’re affordable (often FREE); and they can entertain the kids for hours.
Pools
- Deep Eddy in Austin – The shallow area next to a shaded grassy spot makes this pool perfect for moms with littles. However, getting down the steep flight of stairs with all your stuff can be difficult. Be sure to find the ramp that takes you through the back gate. Have your littles wear water shoes because the pool can be slippery on the bottom.
- Founders Memorial Park Pool in Dripping Springs – The city pool is open to the public most days of the summer. There are resident and non-resident rates, both affordable. We love this pool for families with emerging swimmers. There is a large “baby pool” area roped off with a depth from 1.5 to 2.5 feet, allowing for littles to splash around and play with toys, while older kids swim in the main pool area. Other than this feature, though, there are no bells and whistles at the Founders Pool. Check hours because the swim team meets at this pool.
- Lakeway Swim Center – This is one of our favorite places to swim. The non-resident price is reasonable, and the pool hosts several special events throughout the summer. This swim center boasts two water slides, a leap pad crossing, a sports pool, shallow beach entry and small splash area, mini slide, shade umbrellas, lounge chairs, separate lap pool, and a concession stand.
- Rock’N River Water Park in Round Rock – It’s a smaller water park, but with multiple pools, a low admission price ($6–$14), waterslides, and a splash area, it definitely beats the regular neighborhood pool.
- James Adkins Pool in Kyle – Formerly named the Kyle Community Pool, this aquatic center has plenty of covered seating, including a pavilion, a shallow baby pool area, a basketball hoop, and dive in movie nights. Check the website in advance for open swim times because the swim team practices and competes at this pool.
- YMCA of Austin Pools – There are several locations, and use of the pools requires a membership, but if you have a friend with one, you can be added on as a guest for a small fee (call the location first to confirm), or you can check when the Y is hosting a community day. On community days and open houses, the YMCA pools are open to the public for free. These are usually on the weekends. Another option is to sign on for a summer membership.
Splash Pads
With Nearby Playgrounds
- Lakewood Park in Leander
- Liz Carpenter Splash Pad at Alliance Children’s Garden in downtown Austin
- Brushy Creek Lake Park in Cedar Park
- Dreamland in Dripping Springs
- NEW Skyline Park in SE Austin (near airport)
- Buda City Park
- Route 12 Filling Station in Dripping Springs
- La Verde Park in Kyle
- Steeplechase Park n Kyle (brand new splash pad!)
- Gregg-Clarke Park in Kyle
We hope you have a wonderful summer! Please share any favorite pools or splash pads that we missed.
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