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Swimming Al Fresco
Outdoor Swimming Spots
When it’s hot in the city, the best way to beat the heat is by cooling off in one of Calgary’s seven outdoor swimming pools. Our pool season may be brief, but there are plenty of ways to get wet quick and enjoy a slip on the slides with these savvy picks.
The South Calgary Outdoor Pool has recently undergone a facelift (sans botox). Not only will swimmers enjoy newly renovated change rooms, but a new boiler means water temperatures hover at a pleasant 28°C, making getting in easy for even the most cold-averse among us. Mark August 13 on your calendar for The Hawaiian, a bash featuring a jumping castle, live music and family activities.
If you’ve got a toddler in tow, consider Highwood Outdoor Pool in the northwest. Not only does it boast a wading pool and two tot slides, some playtime in surrounding Stanley Park makes a perfect way to end your swim day. Keep an eye open for rafters floating by on the Elbow River.
Bowview Pool, another great option, is having a family pool party on August 20. Enjoy live music, games, and food—just don’t drop your hot dog in the water.
If your kids are more into drawing a line (or digging a hole) in the sand than swimming with the (inflatable) sharks, you need to get to a beach like Sikome Lake in the south end of the city. Located in Fish Creek Provincial Park, this lovely lake with an artificial beach and sandy bottom is right next to the Bow River. It’s a popular spot that gets busy on the weekends so go early in the day and early in the week. You’ll find plenty of amenities, including change rooms, a playground and a small concession (though we like to bring our own food).
For posh nosh and swimming combined, try the fabulous Hotel Arts. The poolside patio is a chic oasis that features the cuisine of the Raw Bar in surroundings that are more South Beach than cow town. The pool, open to restaurant patrons, is best for families in the morning. It seems like dine-and-dive is the new dine-and-dash.
Summer in the city doesn’t have to be sizzle in the city. Pick a pool and jump on in. Tested by Fiona H., Calgary
First published 2011.07.21
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