DMV pool guide: Where to swim around D.C. this summer
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Yards Park splash park, a popular place to cool off in Navy Yard. Photo: Courtesy washington.org
Suit up: Pools and splash parks are opening across the DMV over Memorial Day weekend.
Why it matters: Snowcrete winter makes pool season that much sweeter.
State of play: D.C.'s public pools open Saturday — chilly forecast be darned.
- 17 city-run outdoor pools and 35 spray parks will be open through Memorial Day (10am-6pm), and then operate on a weekend-only schedule through June 21.
- Starting Monday, June 22, all full‑service outdoor pools will open six days a week, and spray parks daily.
- The pools are free for D.C. residents, but those outside the District can purchase day and summer passes (prices vary by age).
Between the lines: The parks department posts real-time updates and pool capacity status here. When a pool reaches capacity, a one‑in, one‑out policy applies.
Inside scoop: Having trouble picking a pool? Park staff tell us their favorites for:
🤸 Busy but cool: Hearst in Upper Northwest is fully accessible, with great summer vibes and lap lanes for exercise.
🕶️ Under-the-radar: Theodore Hagans for a low-key hang in Fort Lincoln, Northeast.
👪 Good for kids: Langdon is the only pool-splash park combo, plus a kiddie pool.
👙 On the river: Anacostia Pool in Southeast is surrounded by more water, plus a park for walking and boating.
More ways to stay cool: NoVa Parks' five huge water parks offer fun for all ages (entry prices vary).
- Residents and non-residents can get day or summer passes to use Alexandria's three outdoor pools and its splash park.
- Fairfax County's Martin Luther King, Jr. pool — the only outdoor pool operated by the county — is free for residents, with $50 summer passes for non-residents. The county also has a water park (tix required) and splash pad.
- Montgomery County boasts seven outdoor pools. Passes are available to county residents and non-residents for varying prices.
- Prince George's County's outdoor pools and splash parks are available to both county residents and non-residents with passes (prices vary).
🐶 What's next: D.C. public pools close on a rolling basis starting in August. Mark your calendar (September 6) for the final hurrah: Doggie Day Swim!