Piedmont Park Aquatic Center in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go

The Piedmont Park Aquatic Center is one of Atlanta’s most popular public pool complexes, offering a resort-style experience right in the heart of Midtown. If you’re looking for a place to cool off, swim laps, or bring the kids on a summer day, this is one of the top spots to keep on your Atlanta list.

Where the Piedmont Park Aquatic Center Is Located

The Aquatic Center sits inside Piedmont Park, Atlanta’s signature urban green space.

Address (Park & Pool Area)

• Piedmont Park Aquatic Center
• Near The Active Oval, off Park Drive NE
• General park address: 1320 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

Most visitors reach the pool from the Monroe Drive entrance, following signs toward the Aquatic Center and Active Oval. The pool is fully within park grounds, so you’ll walk a short distance from the park entrances.

What the Aquatic Center Offers

The Piedmont Park Aquatic Center is designed to feel more like a community resort pool than a basic city facility. Features typically include:

• Leisure Pool Area – A large, shallow-entry area comfortable for casual swimming and relaxing.
• Lap Swimming Lanes – Designated space for swimmers who want more structured exercise.
• Zero-Entry / Beach-Style Entry – Easy walk-in access that’s especially helpful for children and people who prefer not to use ladders.
• Deck and Lounge Chairs – Space to sunbathe, read, or relax while others swim.
• Shaded Areas – Umbrellas or shaded sections around the deck for those trying to avoid direct sun.
• Changing Rooms & Restrooms – Basic facilities to change before and after your swim.

Some seasons, the Aquatic Center area may also be used for:

• Swim lessons
• Water fitness or aquatics programming
• Special events or pool parties (often by reservation)

Details may change year to year, so it’s wise to confirm current offerings with Piedmont Park Conservancy or City of Atlanta Parks and Recreation before you plan around a specific activity.

Typical Season, Hours, and Weather Considerations

The Aquatic Center operates seasonally, generally during the warmer months in Atlanta.

While exact opening and closing dates can shift from year to year, patterns are often:

• Season: Late spring through early fall (commonly around Memorial Day to Labor Day or slightly beyond)
• Typical Hours: Daytime and some early evening hours, with specific times for general swim and lap swim

Because the pool is outdoors, operations may be affected by:

• Thunderstorms and lightning ⛈️ – Common on Atlanta summer afternoons; pools may close temporarily.
• Cool or rainy weather – May result in reduced hours or closures on slower days.

To avoid surprises, check same-day conditions and hours before heading out, especially if you’re coming from outside Midtown or bringing a large group.

Admission, Passes, and Access

Entry and Membership Structure

The Piedmont Park Aquatic Center typically uses a paid admission system rather than being a free splash pad. Depending on the season’s structure, you may find:

• Daily admission for individuals
• Season passes for frequent swimmers
• Possible discounted rates for certain age groups (such as children or seniors)

Pricing and policies are set by the organizations operating and supporting the pool, which generally include:

• Piedmont Park Conservancy (which helps manage the park)
• In coordination with City of Atlanta Parks and Recreation

Because prices and membership options can change over time, check the latest information directly through park or city channels if costs are an important part of your decision.

Residency and ID

Some Atlanta pools and recreation facilities distinguish between:

• Atlanta residents
• Non-residents or visitors

This can affect the price of admission or eligibility for certain passes. It’s a good idea to bring:

• A photo ID
• A proof of address if you want to claim resident pricing (for locals)

Visitors to Atlanta can still use the Aquatic Center; you may simply fall under a non-resident or standard rate category.

Parking and Getting There

Midtown Atlanta has a mix of driving, walking, biking, and transit options to reach Piedmont Park and the Aquatic Center.

Driving and Parking

Nearby parking options often include:

• Park Tavern / Piedmont Park parking areas near Monroe Drive and 10th Street
• Paid parking decks or lots around the Midtown area
• Limited street parking in nearby neighborhoods (with posted restrictions)

Parking near Piedmont Park can fill quickly on:

• Hot weekend afternoons
• Holiday weekends
• Special event days in the park

To reduce stress:

• Aim to arrive earlier in the day
• Expect a short walk from your parking spot to the Aquatic Center
• Pay attention to parking signs to avoid tickets or towing

MARTA and Non-Driving Options

You can often reach the park area via:

• MARTA Rail: The Midtown and Arts Center stations are within walking or short rideshare distance to park entrances.
• Biking or Scooters: Atlanta’s growing bike/scooter infrastructure makes it possible to ride right up to the park perimeter, then walk to the pool.
• Walking: If you’re staying in Midtown or Virginia-Highland, walking to Piedmont Park is common and avoids parking altogether.

Family-Friendly Features and Tips

The Aquatic Center is a frequent choice for families with kids. To make the most of it:

• Shallow/Zero-Entry Areas: Great for younger children learning to be comfortable in the water.
• Lifeguards: Lifeguards are typically on duty during operating hours, but adults should still maintain active supervision.
• Break Times: Some pools enforce rest breaks or “adult swims” at regular intervals; prepare younger kids for short pauses.

Helpful items to bring:

• Swimsuits and swim diapers for small children (if required)
• Towels, hats, and sun protection
• Water and simple snacks if allowed under current rules
• A change of clothes for walking back through the park afterward

Pool rules can change, so confirm policies on:

• Outside food and drink
• Floatation devices or toys
• Age limits for unaccompanied minors

Rules, Safety, and What to Expect

Like other Atlanta-area pools, the Piedmont Park Aquatic Center has rules designed to keep the environment safe and comfortable. Common expectations include:

• Proper swimwear required in the pool
• Shower before entering (often recommended or required)
• No running on wet pool decks
• No glass containers in the pool area
• Respectful behavior toward staff and other guests

In busy times, staff may:

• Limit capacity for safety
• Use a first-come, first-served entry process
• Ask groups to follow specific guidelines for seating and shared areas

If you are visiting with a large group, camp, or party, it’s wise to inquire about group policies or reservations rather than just showing up.

How the Aquatic Center Fits Into a Day at Piedmont Park

One of the biggest advantages of the Piedmont Park Aquatic Center is its location within Atlanta’s most famous park. You can easily combine pool time with other activities such as:

• Walking or jogging around the Active Oval
• Visiting the dog parks if you’ve brought pets (outside the pool area)
• Relaxing at Lake Clara Meer
• Enjoying nearby playgrounds and open lawns
• Grabbing food or drinks from adjacent Midtown or Virginia-Highland spots

This makes the Aquatic Center a convenient choice for:

• Families planning a half-day outing
• Locals looking for exercise plus relaxation
• Visitors who want to get a sense of Atlanta’s green space and Midtown skyline views in one trip

Contact Points and Where to Get Current Information

Because pool operations can change by season, it’s important to rely on current, official sources for specifics like hours, pricing, and special programming. Key entities involved with Piedmont Park and the Aquatic Center include:

Piedmont Park Conservancy

• Main office: 1071 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
• Oversees many elements of the park and often shares updates on facilities, events, and amenities.

City of Atlanta – Department of Parks and Recreation

• Central administrative office: 233 Peachtree St NE, Suite 1700, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Responsible for city pool operations, policies, and recreation programming across Atlanta.

For the most accurate and up-to-date details, check directly with these organizations or use their published phone numbers and information lines to confirm:

• Season dates and daily hours
• Admission fees and pass options
• Current rules about food, flotation devices, or age restrictions
• Availability of swim lessons or fitness programs

Quick Reference: Piedmont Park Aquatic Center at a Glance

If you live in Atlanta or are just visiting, the Piedmont Park Aquatic Center offers a convenient way to cool off, exercise, and enjoy one of the city’s most iconic parks in the same trip. Checking current hours, admission details, and weather conditions before heading out will help you make the most of your time at this Midtown Atlanta favorite.