A guide to the best public pools in Pittsburgh
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
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.