Pools FAQ
When is open public swim?
Open swim is Monday-Friday 1-7 p.m. Saturday 12-6 p.m. and Sunday 12-6 p.m. Some pools will be closed on Monday or Tuesday. All hours can be found by visiting ColumbusRecParks.com/Pools.
How do I reserve time at the pool?
You no longer have to register in advance. All pools are first come, first served during open swim times.
Do you allow rentals and groups?
We do not allow groups or rentals during open swim time, organized groups may submit rental requests here: https://columbusrecparks.com/facilities/aquatics/pools/group-use-policy/ Please note we are not currently accepting private party rentals.
What is the cost to swim?
Open swim is $3 per entry/ per person.
Do you accept credit cards for entry?
Our pools are cashless. A credit or debit card is required to pay the $3 entry fee. Thank you for your understanding!
If you do not have a credit or debit card you can load a digital punch card for entry. Cost and information can be found by visiting our ActiveNet page or by asking our front desk staff for assistance at any of our outdoor pool locations.
Can I pay with cash for pool entry?
Our pools are cashless payment for entry to pools can be made with a credit card or purchasing a punch card which can be purchased by visiting ActiveNet. If you have questions or need assistance please stop by the front desk at your nearest outdoor pool.
Do you have swim lessons?
Summer swim lessons are offered in two-week sessions, with lessons Monday-Thursday for two consecutive weeks. Summer swim lessons focus primarily on drowning prevention, higher-level swim lessons are offered in the indoor season. Those interested in competitive or fitness swimming should contact their local pool for lap swim programs or swim teams.
Do you have a swim team?
Select summer pools have swim teams, please contact your local pool for more information on practice times and eligibility requirements.
What is the cost of programs like swim lessons and swim team?
Swim lessons are $20 per participant, per session. Play Scholarships are available for families who qualify. Select sites also offer Water Fitness.
How do I know what pool is open?
Real-time capacity and closures can be found on ColumbusRecParks.com/Pools, which is updated in real-time as pools experience capacity changes or unexpected closures.
Why do the pools have capacity limits?
Each pool has a different capacity limit based on water space and lifeguard coverage. Please check ColumbusRecParks.com/Pools before heading to the pool to confirm your pool has space! We have worked to move all groups to alternate swim times in order to expand public access.
How can I check pool capacity before going?
Visit ColumbusRecParks.com/Pools to find real-time information!
Do I need a Leisure Card?
Anyone over the age of 3 must have a Columbus Recreation and Parks Leisure Card. Sign up online, at any community center, or at the pools! Leisure Cards are free and easy to carry with you as a key tag.
What age can my child go to the pool by themselves?
Unaccompanied children may come to the pool at the age of 13. 9-12 year olds must be with a parent or guardian but do not need to be directly supervised in the water.
Can I bring food or drink to the pool?
You may bring snacks and drink to the pool, however glass of any kind and alcoholic beverages are not permitted. Food and drink must be consumed in designated areas, and we ask that patrons help us keep our spaces free of trash and food particles to prevent sanitary issues.
Do you have concessions at the pools?
We do not have formal concessions, however, most sites have vending machines.
What is the weather policy?
Pools may close due to unsafe weather conditions such as lightning and thunder, heavy rain, strong winds or low temperatures. Check ColumbusRecParks.com/Pools for real time information on pool closures.
Is the indoor pool open during the summer?
The Columbus Aquatics Center will only be open for scheduled programming during the summer. The Columbus Aquatics Center will not be open for lap swim or open swim during the summer. Visit the Columbus Aquatics Center page for more information on programming.
How do I get in contact with my local pool?
Check ColumbusRecParks.com/Pools for updated information on pool status and closures. Local pools frequently have long wait times on phone calls, we would be happy to serve you in person or via email if you cannot connect with us by phone. You can reach us by phone by calling 614-645-6122.
How can I get a job at the pool?
Working for the City of Columbus has many perks. We encourage anyone to apply for hiring opportunities visit our Lifeguards page for more information.
What are the rules and regulations at my pool?
All rules and regulations can be found at your pool via signage or online on our Pool Rules page, which is available in multiple languages.
Can I bring my own toys or floaties?
You may bring your own pool toys and floatation devices, however lifeguards may ask that toys or objects obstructing their view be removed. All personal flotation devices must be coast guard approved. In need of a life jacket? Look for a first aid station at the pool and one of our lifeguards would be happy to fit you in the appropriate personal flotation device.
Can I practice SCUBA or snorkeling at the pool?
We do not allow individuals to practice SCUBA at our pools. Organized clubs or organizations should complete a rental request form. Snorkels may be permitted for fitness use, however, we maintain a strict policy on extended breath-holding or snorkel rescue maneuvers. Military groups may request a rental for specialized practices. Rental requests can be found here: Group Use Policy for Pools
When are the sessions and registration dates?
Session dates and registration dates can also be found on our Pools page.
What happens if I cannot make my class or lesson?
We do not offer makeup classes for summer programs. If a class is canceled by us for more than half of the class days, partial refunds will be made available. There is no refund on programs without fees.