Heman Park Pool

«Whoohoo!», that what’s my daughter screamed as soon as she saw the pools.
We came around 11am on a Tuesday and there were barely any people there, however there was lots of open seating and shade.
The kid pool has racing slides and a fountain — the large pool a floating crocodile and log, tube slide, and diving boards.
The main pool is huge and divided by floating barriers, so those who choose to lap swim or dive aren’t disturbed. There were many areas around the pool to hangout. And again, the pool was totally open on a hot July day as you can see in the pictures.
We went back in the evening the same day and it wasn’t as sparse, the lifeguards had noodles and toys for kids at the kid pool. People were having fun all the way until closing at 8pm. Same day re-​entry is free.

I have always tried to stay away from the public community pools, but the Heman Park Pool is an exception to the rule.
They have an incredibly friendly staff and it is rare you aren’t able to find a good place to lounge. The concession stand is super cheap and although it is the typical random pool food, its great for a summer afternoon– pretzels, nachos, hot dogs, brats, ice cream– can’t really complain. And the food is super cheap.
The pool is always clean and well taken care of and I have to say for a resident, buying a summer pass for the summer and gym is a deal, if you plan on taking advantage of the facilities.

I thought the entrance fee was a bit steep ($ 5 for locals with a renewable pass, $ 6 for their guests). But the pool is pretty big, and there is a water slide.

Giant community pool… only a few dollars to get in (although you need to buy an ID card first). Open to both residents and non-​residents of U City.
We found that there were an enormous number of kids there, and not many adults… so there was lots of screaming and yelling, but if you have kids that would be awesome. All the basic amenities are here: a concession stand, baby pool, high and low diving boards, volleyball courts, etc.
Definitely a fun, inexpensive pool — we will just try to find a time that it is a bit less crowded next time we go.