A guide to the best public pools in Pittsburgh
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Chillin' in the blue at Settlers Cabin Wave Pool is a great summer activity in Pittsburgh. Photo: Courtesy of Allegheny County
The sun is out, temperatures are rising and pool season has finally arrived.
Why it matters: Southwestern Pennsylvania's dozens of public pools offer a cheap reprieve from the heat.
Context: Pools operate under different seasons. Some are already open, while Allegheny County and Pittsburgh city pools open mid-June. Most seasons end on Labor Day.
💭 Ryan's thought bubble: I love all things water and have visited several pools across the region. A good pool has a fun vibe, plenty of places to lay out, and enough water options for all levels of swimmers. Bonus points for games and amenities inside or nearby.
Case in point: Pittsburgh City Council Member Barb Warwick likes the family-friendly Magee Pool in Greenfield.
- "Playground and basketball courts right next to the pool and CoGo's across the baseball field, so you can relax and read a book while the kids run around wherever they want," she said.
Our ranking of the region's best public pools:

1. Dormont Pool, 1801 Dormont Ave.
Pros: Massive pool with a big wading area, plenty of space for lap swimming, a volleyball net in the water, plus a large waterslide and tiny one for toddlers. Also has a grassy slope for sunbathing and a concession stand for snacks.
Con: Popular enough that it's difficult to find a close parking spot.
The verdict: The all-of-the-above pool. Whether you are looking for exercise, relaxation, recreation or entertainment for the kids, Dormont Pool has it all. $8 daily admission.

2. Settlers Cabin Wave Pool, 635 Ridge Road, Robinson
Pros: A gargantuan county complex complete with large concession stand, grass and Astroturf resting areas and two pools: a large wave pool and a smaller pool with diving boards and an Olympic-style diving platform. Tube rentals are available. A massive parking lot means finding a space is easy.
Con: The waves limit opportunities to wade and relax.
The verdict: The perfect public pool for thrill-seekers. Bounce among the big waves, or try your luck on the 10-meter diving platform. It's a rush. $6 daily admission for Allegheny County residents, $8 for non-residents.

3. Highland Park Pool, 151 Lake Drive, Highland Park
Pros: Three different water features: a large pool with a deep end, a kiddie pool and a slash pad. The grass is always filled with picnickers and a large tree provides some shade. Beach volleyball courts are just outside the fence.
Cons: Not quite large enough for its biggest crowds, so the water can get cramped. Parking is street-only, leading to long walks to the water.
The verdict: The cookout pool. Almost always a fun vibe with surrounding parties playing music. The place to be for summertime in the city. $5 daily admission.

4. Bloomfield Pool, 408 Ella St., Bloomfield
Pros: On the smaller side, but a gradual slope makes water lounging easy. Bocce courts are right outside (it is Little Italy, after all).
Cons: Not much off-street parking. Can feel like a bit of a scene for the locals.
The verdict: The cool kids pool, affectionately called Bloomfield Beach. Filled with stylish 20-somethings who love pool season. Grab a craft brew at Trace Brewing after, located just a block away. $5 daily admission.

5. Ammon Pool, 2217 Bedford Ave., Hill District
Pros: Not too crowded, with tons of room for kids to play and a water basketball hoop.
Cons: An arduous journey atop Bedford Avenue if you don't live in the neighborhood. No amenities nearby.
The verdict: The water sports pool. Perfect for playing Marco Polo or water basketball. $5 daily admission.
🏊♀️ Go deeper: City Cast Pittsburgh dedicated a whole episode to ranking pools.
