Best Pools in Atlanta: Where to Cool Off, Swim Laps, and Splash with the Family

Atlanta summers are hot, sticky, and long—which makes finding the best pools in Atlanta more than a luxury; it’s almost a survival skill. Whether you want a kid-friendly splash pad, a serious lap pool, or a scenic outdoor swim, the metro area has plenty of options.

Below is a locally focused guide to some of the top public, community, and hotel-style pools in and around Atlanta, plus how they work, what to expect, and tips for choosing the right spot for your day.

Quick Guide: Top Types of Pools in Atlanta

*Exact prices change; always confirm before you go.

Best City of Atlanta Public Pools

If you’re looking for budget-friendly pools in Atlanta, the city-operated pools are usually the most affordable option. They’re spread across neighborhoods and typically open seasonally in summer, with specific hours and age rules.

The City of Atlanta Department of Parks & Recreation manages these facilities:

City of Atlanta Department of Parks & Recreation
233 Peachtree St NE, Suite 1700
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 546-6788

Check their official channels for current hours, fees, and rules.

1. Maddox Park Pool (Westside)

Maddox Park’s outdoor pool serves families and residents in the Westside area near the Bankhead neighborhood.

Why locals like it:

• Generally affordable entry
• Family-friendly vibe
• Close to the Westside BeltLine and transit options

This is a good option if you live or stay near downtown, Georgia Tech, or West Midtown and want a no-frills outdoor pool without driving far.

2. C.T. Martin Natatorium & Recreation Center (Indoor)

C.T. Martin Natatorium features an indoor pool that supports swim teams, lessons, and open swim at different times of day.

Address:
3201 Martin Luther King Jr Dr SW
Atlanta, GA 30311

Highlights:

• Indoor pool, making it useful outside summer
• Often used for lap swimming, lessons, and youth programs
• Part of a larger recreation complex with other amenities

If you’re on the southwest side and looking for a serious swim space or lessons, this is one of the more significant public aquatic centers in the city.

3. Adamsville Natatorium

Another key indoor aquatic center in southwest Atlanta, Adamsville Natatorium is often used by local residents for both recreation and fitness.

Address:
3201 Martin Luther King Jr Dr SW
Atlanta, GA 30311
(Adamsville location shares the general corridor; verify the specific rec center name and entrance when you go.)

What to expect:

• Indoor lanes for lap swim
• Times set aside for family swim and youth programming
• Typically more structured than neighborhood splash pools

Best Community & Neighborhood Pools in Metro Atlanta

Many Atlantans rely on membership-based neighborhood pools and non-profit centers for regular access, especially for lap swim and kids’ swim teams. These may require seasonal dues or annual membership.

4. YMCA of Metro Atlanta Pools

Several YMCA branches across the metro area have pools, including indoor lap pools, leisure pools, and, at some branches, outdoor facilities.

Common locations with pools include:

• Carl E. Sanders Family YMCA at Buckhead
  1160 Moores Mill Rd NW
  Atlanta, GA 30327

• McGhee Family YMCA (Decatur area)
  2815 S Goddard Rd
  Lithonia, GA 30038

• East Lake Family YMCA
  275 East Lake Blvd SE
  Atlanta, GA 30317

General line for YMCA of Metro Atlanta: (404) 588-9622

Why they’re popular:

• Consistent lap swim schedules
• Swim lessons and youth swim teams
• Indoor pools for year-round swimming
• Part of a broader fitness membership

If you want regular exercise swimming in Atlanta, joining a YMCA or similar facility is one of the most reliable options.

5. Local Neighborhood Swim & Tennis Clubs

Throughout Buckhead, Virginia-Highland, Decatur, East Cobb, Sandy Springs, and other intown/suburban areas, there are many swim and tennis clubs that operate as private or semi-private pools.

Common features:

• Seasonal family memberships
• Neighborhood swim teams for kids
• Social events and cookouts during summer

These clubs typically don’t allow day passes for the general public, but if you live in the neighborhood or have friends who are members, they can be some of the most pleasant, less-crowded pools in metro Atlanta.

Best Destination & Waterpark-Style Pools Near Atlanta

If you’re looking for more than just a quick swim—think slides, lazy rivers, or beach-style entries—there are several larger aquatic centers and parks in and around the city.

6. City of Decatur Pools (Decatur)

The City of Decatur, just east of Atlanta, often operates attractive community pools and splash features within its parks system.

City of Decatur Active Living
231 Sycamore St
Decatur, GA 30030
Phone: (404) 377-0494

Popular spots may include:

• Outdoor community pools with lap lanes and shallow areas
• Splash pads suitable for younger children
• Walkable access from central Decatur neighborhoods

These are especially useful if you live or stay near East Atlanta, Kirkwood, Oakhurst, or downtown Decatur and want a community-oriented experience.

7. South Cobb Aquatic Center

Located in Austell (west of Atlanta), South Cobb Aquatic Center is often mentioned by families looking for a more elaborate indoor aquatic facility within reasonable driving distance.

Address:
875 Six Flags Dr
Austell, GA 30168
Phone: (770) 739-3180

Typical amenities include:

• Indoor pool with recreational features like slides or play structures
• Areas for lap swimming
• Programs and events for kids and adults

This is ideal for days when you’re willing to drive a bit from Atlanta for a more robust aquatic experience.

8. Bogan Park Aquatic Center (Northeast of Atlanta)

In Gwinnett County, about 30–45 minutes northeast of much of in-town Atlanta depending on traffic, Bogan Park Aquatic Center is another well-known facility.

Address:
2723 N Bogan Rd
Buford, GA 30519
Phone: (678) 277-0850

Locals often go here for:

• A large indoor pool with play structures and water features
• Space for open swim and family fun
• County-run programming and lessons

For Atlanta residents on the northeast side or those visiting the Gwinnett area, it can be a fun alternative to city pools.

Best Hotel & Rooftop Pools in Atlanta (For a “Resort” Feel)

If you’re visiting or planning a staycation in Atlanta, hotel pools—especially rooftop ones—can be a highlight. Access details vary: some are guests-only, while others may allow limited day access.

While names and policies change, here’s what to look for and where:

9. Downtown & Midtown Rooftop Pools

Downtown and Midtown have several large hotels with rooftop or elevated pools that offer skyline views and lounge seating. Typical locations include:

• Large convention hotels near Centennial Olympic Park
• Boutique hotels in Midtown near Peachtree St NE

Common characteristics:

• Often outdoor pools with sundecks
• Typically reserved for registered hotel guests
• Bar service or cabanas at some properties

If your priority is a relaxing pool day with a view rather than lap swimming, these can be among the best pools in Atlanta for atmosphere.

10. Buckhead Hotel Pools

Buckhead’s upscale hotels often feature polished pool areas—sometimes smaller in size, but quiet and well-maintained.

General area:

• Around Peachtree Rd NE and nearby side streets
• Close to major shopping areas and restaurants

These are good if you’re combining shopping, dining, and a pool day—or if you’re staying in Buckhead and want a comfortable place to cool off without traveling across town.

Family-Friendly Pools & Splash Pads in Atlanta

For families with young kids, shallow pools and splash pads are often safer and more convenient than large lap pools.

11. City of Atlanta Splash Pads

Several city parks operate seasonal splash pads that are free or low-cost and are popular with families.

Typical locations include major parks in:

• Downtown
• Old Fourth Ward/Inman Park areas
• Southwest Atlanta

Expect:

• Shallow, no-standing-water structures
• Water jets, sprays, and interactive features
• Seasonal operation, usually warmer months only

These are ideal if your kids are still too small for deep water or if you want a quick cool-down spot without full swim gear.

12. Suburban Splash Pads & Pools

Surrounding cities—such as Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, Smyrna, and Tucker—often run their own pools and splash pads.

If you live in or visit these suburbs:

• Check your local parks & recreation department for:
  • Community pools
  • Splash pads
  • Day pass rules and fees

These spots tend to be less crowded than major tourist attractions, especially on weekday mornings.

Best Places for Lap Swimming in Atlanta

If your main focus is fitness, you’ll want pools with defined lap lanes and predictable schedules.

13. YMCA of Metro Atlanta (Multiple Locations)

As noted earlier, YMCA branches are one of the most reliable sources of lap lanes in Atlanta.

Why lap swimmers choose YMCAs:

• Multiple branches means options near home or work
• Consistent schedules and posted lap times
• Year-round indoor pools at many locations

Membership typically includes access to all or most branches in the metro area.

14. City Natatoriums & Recreation Centers

Facilities like:

• C.T. Martin Natatorium & Recreation Center
• Adamsville Natatorium
• Other city indoor pools with natatorium-style setups

often offer:

• Dedicated lap swim blocks
• Public access with a daily fee or low-cost pass
• Affordable options compared with private gyms

Always confirm schedules—many public pools balance lap lanes, open swim, classes, and team practices.

What to Know Before You Go: Practical Tips for Atlanta Pools

Because Atlanta’s pool options are split among the city, counties, YMCAs, hotels, and private clubs, rules and operations vary widely. A little planning makes your day much smoother.

1. Check Seasonal Schedules

• Many outdoor pools in Atlanta open late spring and close early fall.
• Some smaller neighborhood pools may only be open on weekends early in the season.
• Indoor natatoriums and YMCA pools often have year-round hours.

☎️ Tip: Call the facility directly or check its latest posted schedule to avoid surprise closures for maintenance or events.

2. Confirm Costs & Payment Methods

• City and county pools usually charge a modest daily fee or offer residency-based pricing.
• YMCAs and private clubs generally require membership, though some may sell short-term passes.
• Hotel pools may be guests-only, offer day passes, or partner with third-party booking platforms.

Bring a photo ID, especially where residency discounts or hotel access are involved.

3. Review Rules and Age Requirements

Most Atlanta-area pools:

• Require adult supervision for younger children
• Enforce swim diaper rules for toddlers
• Have life jackets policies (often allowed, sometimes provided)
• Post specific rules about outside food, floats, and coolers

Understanding these ahead of time helps avoid issues at the gate.

4. Plan for Parking and Traffic

Atlanta traffic can significantly affect your pool day:

• Popular destinations and suburban aquatic centers often have large lots, but may fill up during peak periods.
• Intown pools and hotel pools may rely on paid decks or street parking.
• Weekend afternoons and hot holiday weekends draw the biggest crowds.

If possible, aim for:

• Morning visits for cooler temperatures and fewer people
• Weekdays if you have a flexible schedule

5. Stay Hydrated and Sun-Safe

Atlanta sun and humidity are intense in summer:

• Bring water, sunscreen, hats, and lightweight cover-ups.
• Remember that rooftop and hotel pools can have especially strong direct sun.
• Indoor pools are cooler but can still feel humid; staying hydrated is still important.

How to Choose the Best Pool in Atlanta for Your Needs

When you’re deciding where to go, think about what matters most for your day:

• Lowest cost:
  Look at City of Atlanta public pools or nearby county pools like Decatur or Cobb facilities.

• Lap swimming and fitness:
  Prioritize YMCA branches, city natatoriums, or other indoor community centers with clear lap schedules.

• Family fun with kids:
  Consider splash pads, destination-style aquatic centers like South Cobb or Bogan Park, or suburban community pools.

• Relaxing “resort” feel or skyline views:
  Focus on Midtown, Downtown, and Buckhead hotel pools, ideally when you’re already planning a stay or staycation.

By matching the type of pool to your purpose—exercise, kid fun, quiet relaxation, or a budget-friendly cool-down—you can find some of the best pools in Atlanta for your particular day and avoid the trial-and-error that many newcomers go through.