Pools FAQ
When is open public swim?
Open swim is Monday-Friday 1-7:30 p.m., Saturday 12-6 p.m. and Sunday 12-5 p.m.. All hours can be found on https://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 always $1 per entry/ per person.
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 $15 per participant, per session. Play Scholarships are available for families who qualify, which can bring the cost of lessons to $0. At this time summer swim teams do not have a participation fee associated with participating. Select sites also offer Water Fitness.
How do I know what pool is open?
Real-time capacity and closures can be found on https://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 https://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?
https://columbusrecparks.com/pools is the best place 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 https://columbusrecparks.com/pools for real time information on pool closures.
Is the indoor pool open during the summer?
The Columbus Aquatics Center is open 7-10 a.m., Monday-Friday for lap swimming only; select programs may take place throughout the day. There is no open swim during the summer months.
How do I get in contact with my local pool?
First check https://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.
How can I get a job at the pool?
Working for the City of Columbus has many perks. We encourage anyone to apply for both Lifeguard and Recreation Aide .
Do you accept credit cards for entry?
We do accept credit and debit cards, however, a single $1 entry is the fastest way to get swimming. Please be aware we do not have the ability to make change for cash entry.
What are the rules and regulations at my pool?
All rules and regulations can be found at your pool via signage or online https://columbusrecparks.com/pool-rules now 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: https://columbusrecparks.com/facilities/aquatics/pools/group-use-policy/
When are the sessions and registration dates?
Session dates and registration dates can also be found on https://columbusrecparks.com/pools
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.