Public, Complimentary Swimming Spots in Chicago During Summertime
Updated Guide to Chicago's Public Pools: Unleash Your Swimming Adventure
Embrace the warm summer months by diving into some of Chicago's fantastic public pools! These aquatic gems offer unforgettable family-friendly experiences and are easily accessible across the city. Just remember, always bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to quench your thirst.
Dive into Free Public Pools on the North Side
1. Holstein Pool - Bucktown
Open 11 am to 7 pm Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 9am to 5pm on Tuesday and Thursday, and 10am to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday. Holstein is a family-friendly favorite with a kiddie pool and top-notch facilities, including modern locker rooms and a dedicated popsicle vendor.
2. Wrightwood Pool - Lincoln Park
Open 11am to 7pm Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday. This smaller pool is perfect for families, with less crowding and a depth that accommodates all ages.
3. Portage Pool - Portage Park
Open 11am to 7pm Monday- Friday, 10 am to 6 pm Saturday and Sunday. This pool offers a water playground, lounge chairs, and a heated kiddie pool. Although it can get busy, the lifeguards ensure everyone gets a chance to play.
4. Hamlin Pool - Roscoe Village
Open 11am to 7pm Monday- Friday, 10 am to 6 pm Saturday and Sunday. Residents rave about the clean facilities, fun day camps, and swimming lessons at this community-oriented pool.
5. Chase Pool - Uptown
Open 11am to 7pm Monday through Friday, 10 am to 6 pm Saturday and Sunday. A hidden gem, Chase Pool boasts lounge chairs, paddleboards, and pool noodles, making it perfect for a relaxed swim.
Take a Dip in Chicago's South Side and Downtown Pools
6. Washington Pool – Hyde Park
Open 11am to 7pm Monday through Friday, 10 am to 6 pm Saturday and Sunday. With a massive pool, a wading area for kids, and an exhilarating water slide, Washington Pool sets the stage for a thrilling swimming experience.
7. McKinley Park Pool - McKinley Park
Open 11am to 7pm Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday. offers a water playground for the little ones and a spacious pool for the whole family. Don't forget about community programs like swimming lessons and day camps.
8. Palmer Pool - West Roseland
Open 11am to 7pm Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday. This pool impresses with its clean facilities, family-friendly atmosphere, and water features galore, including three slides.
Plunge into Chicago's West Side Pools
10. Humboldt Park Pool - Humboldt Park
Open 11am to 7pm daily. Known for its stunning water slide, Humboldt Park Pool offers a unique and exciting swimming experience. The park itself is filled with additional recreational spaces, like a lagoon, boathouse, and beach area.
11. Garfield Park Pool-Garfield Park
Open 11am to 7pm Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday. This pool is located near the former city parks headquarters and offers a 25-yard pool with six lanes, as well as facilities available inside the field house.
12. Gage Pool – Gage Park
Open 11am to 7pm Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday. With a spray ground, a wading pool, and a 48-yard pool, Gage Park offers something for swimmers of all ages and skill levels. The historic field house also hosts additional activities for post-swim fun.
Discover other fun and free activities to enhance your Chicago lifestyle! Explore vintage clothing stores in the fashion-and-beauty scene or take a leisurely stroll through beautiful home-and-garden displays during the various open house tours. Savor diverse food-and-drink options at eclectic restaurants, food trucks, and farmers markets scattered throughout the city. Indulge in local delicacies like Chicago-style pizza or a Chicago-dog as you immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene. When exploring the city, don't forget to capture memorable moments with unique travel souvenirs or browsing art galleries in each neighborhood you visit.