From shallow water pools built during the Great Depression to modern water parks, the Cincinnati Recreation Commission offers up convenient swimming locations in almost every neighborhood for the public to cool down, relax and dive in. Along with pools, the CRC also maintains several “spraygrounds” around the city: Caldwell, College Hill, Lower Price Hill, Northside, North Fairmount, Pleasant Ridge, South Fairmount and the West End. These water spraying sculptures are heat-busters without the need for a swimsuit. CRC 2013 Membership Fee: $20 for 17 and younger or 50-plus; $35 for ages 18-49; $75 family. Visit cincyrec.org for rules, regulations, hours and more information.
1. Dunham “Otto Armleder Memorial Regional Aquatic Center at Dunham Recreation Complex" Pool
This complex offers free parking, a picnic area, a shallow pool, water slide and zero-depth entrance. On Aug. 18, they host a Dog Days of Summer event where you can play and swim with your well socialized, non-aggressive furry friend. 4356 Dunham Lane, Westwood, 513-251-0150.
2. Fairview Pool
A shallow and wading pool in the heart of Clifton. 2219 Ravine St., Clifton, 513-421-4576.
3. Hirsch “Otto Armleder Memorial Family Aquatic Center at Hirsch” Pool
This aquatic facility offers a water spray, water slide, shallow pool, wading pool and zero-depth entrance. 3630 Reading Road, Avondale, 513-357-7665.
4. McKie Pool
A new project of the CRC, the recently remodeled McKie Center pool offers a deep pool, wading pool and diving board along with a new sprayground, pool decks and a brand new filtration system. 1655 Chase Ave., Northside, 513-681-7669.
5. Mt. Adams Pool
A hidden, relaxing shallow pool for wading and sunning. 966 Mt. Adams Circle, Mount Adams, 513-421-5073.
6. Oakley Pool
Classic neighborhood pool with a diving board, wading pool and swim team. 3900 Paxton Ave., Oakley, 513-631-4264.
7. Ziegler Pool
A heat-reliever in the heart of downtown, Ziegler offers a deep pool and wading fountain. 1311 Sycamore Ave., Over-the-Rhine, 513-621-3650.
