When asking yourself about something to do near me in Boulder with a group of friends or family, consider
Boulder Elks Pool & Patio
Why Boulder Elks Pool & Patio is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Boulder Elks Pool & Patio is a cherished community staple in North Boulder since 1967, offering a welcoming and well-maintained retreat for swimming, socializing, and summer fun. Located at 3975 28th Street, just north of Iris Avenue and adjacent to the Sunrise Retirement Community, this pool has become an iconic summer destination loved by families, lap swimmers, and casual visitors alike. The facility features lanes dedicated to lap swimming, ensuring that fitness enthusiasts have their own space, while families and friends gather to relax by the patio or participate in seasonal events. The pool fosters a friendly and safe environment, bolstered by reasonable entry fees and affordable summer memberships that encourage community participation. Members enjoy benefits such as discounted guest fees and access to special events throughout the year. With thoughtful amenities like ample parking on the east side and convenient location near 26th Street, Boulder Elks Pool & Patio is ideal for a day of swimming, training, and social gatherings under Colorado’s sunny skies. Whether you want a refreshing swim, a place to cool off on a summer day, or a spot for a Friday night BBQ, this pool balances tradition, community, and summer enjoyment perfectly.
Here's what people think of Boulder Elks Pool & Patio
As of recent, Boulder Elks Pool & Patio holds a 4.7-star rating based on 48 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Boulder Elks Pool & Patio for its clean, well-maintained facilities and the friendly, inclusive atmosphere that welcomes swimmers of all levels. Many lap swimmers appreciate having their dedicated lanes and the quiet yet community-oriented environment, marking it as a well-kept secret in Boulder’s summer scene. Family-friendly vibes, attentive staff, and a relaxing patio area are common highlights mentioned in positive reviews. Visitors also value the affordability of entry fees and memberships which provide great value for individuals and families alike. On the flip side, some less favorable reviews touch on occasional issues such as limited parking during peak times and the evolving rules that may confuse newcomers, especially with seasonal changes in hours and regulations. A few reviewers noted that the pool can get busy on popular days, which might affect lane availability. Nevertheless, these critiques are relatively minor compared to the overwhelmingly positive feedback. Overall, the review consensus depicts Boulder Elks Pool & Patio as an exceptional summer venue that balances a nostalgic, old-school charm with modern sensibilities, making it a beloved location for the Boulder community and visitors every summer.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Wendy Hepworth
It doesn’t get much better than a Friday at Elks Pool, tasty, cheap bbq ftw. Everything is reasonably priced and the staff are really friendly. Nicest Lifeguards in the city. Thoroughly unpretentious.
Ulysses Torres
Great pool! they have two diving boards and 2 pools. And it is free on Fridays with a barbeque and I usually packed! Would recommend for older kids that know how to swim but there is a shallower part for the littler kids. There's plenty of space with more than enough chairs and tables when you just want to sit down there is also a snack bar.
Colette Roy with Clutter And Couples
Wow! I've lived in Boulder for 30 years and I JUST learned of this pool yesterday! Best kept secret apparently! I had an absolutely LOVELY day getting sunburned, playing in a clean pool and deep joy for the ten minute "adult swim" that occurred every hour! YAYYYYYY!!
Thomas Crane
A best kept secret in Boulder re: summer swimming pools. Extremely nice amenities, welcoming young people at the door and re: snacks. Kids were very animated, in lite good humor and respectful.
Joey Pedraza
OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND 25M POOL. It's a great 25 meter pool. The bathroom are a bit ran down, not very clean. But a really nice pool. They have a diving well, it's a heated pool.
How to reach Boulder Elks Pool & Patio
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Why Boulder Elks Pool & Patio may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Boulder Elks Pool & Patio with your friends? Because it offers an unbeatable combination of relaxation, recreation, and community bonding in a beautifully maintained outdoor setting. This beloved Boulder gem has been a summer staple since 1967, drawing generations of families and friends to its inviting heated pool and spacious patio area. Imagine spending a sunny day swimming laps or splashing about, followed by lounging on the patio with good food and drinks, surrounded by laughter and conversations. It’s an ideal escape from daily routines where you can reconnect with close ones without distractions, while soaking in Colorado’s fresh air and scenic vibes. Whether you want an active day in the water or a chill hangout spot for BBQs, Boulder Elks provides a safe, welcoming environment staffed by friendly lifeguards and supported by a vibrant community. The strong sense of tradition and the casual, inclusive atmosphere make it more than just a pool—it’s a place to create lasting memories with friends and family. This is why gathering here is refreshing, fun, and genuinely meaningful.
What activities can groups enjoy at Boulder Elks Pool & Patio? The highlight is undoubtedly the large, heated outdoor swimming pool, which is maintained at a comfortable temperature year-round—around 81-83 degrees even in winter months. This pool invites swimmers of all skill levels to enjoy laps, swim lessons, or simply cool off during hot summer days. For families, kids can safely splash and play under vigilant lifeguard supervision, while adults can swim or socialize nearby. Besides the pool, the expansive patio area offers plenty of room for lounging, picnicking, and casual social interactions. The venue frequently hosts community events, including popular Friday night BBQs that foster a lively, festive atmosphere with great food and drinks. Seasonal swim meets and special parties like the Labor Day celebration or Summer Send Off Weekend further enrich group outings, making it easy to plan gatherings around fun community happenings. Locker rooms and showers add convenience, helping everyone stay comfortable during extended visits. Altogether, these features create a versatile venue perfect for swim practice, casual fun, dining, and socializing.
Why is Boulder Elks Pool & Patio perfect for hosting a group meetup? First, its large outdoor space provides ample room for groups big and small to spread out comfortably without feeling crowded, whether you’re planning a family reunion, a group of friends catching up, or a team-building event. The pool serves as a natural centerpiece that entertains all ages and interests, encouraging active play or relaxing swims. The patio area is especially conducive to social gatherings—equipped for barbecues and shaded seating, it allows groups to enjoy meals together amid a sunny, open-air setting. The venue’s friendly staff and lifeguards ensure a secure environment, meaning hosts can focus on having fun while guests feel safe. Boulder Elks also accommodates private pool parties and events, offering flexibility to customize your meetup. Its location in North Boulder is accessible yet feels like a tranquil retreat, making it an attractive and convenient meetup spot. Together, these attributes guarantee your group leaves with memorable experiences of connection and enjoyment.
How does Boulder Elks Pool & Patio support swim instruction and fitness? Alongside recreational swimming, this facility prioritizes swim education and fitness opportunities. Swim lessons are regularly offered by experienced instructors for all ages, helping children and adults improve confidence and skills in the water. The pool’s temperature of about 83 degrees in cooler months provides a comfortable environment for year-round aquatic exercise, which is among the safest and most effective workouts. It is also home to the Boulder Elks Swim Team (BEST), which nurtures young competitive swimmers building camaraderie and discipline through regular training and meets. Group swim lessons or team practices can be excellent activities for meetups centered on health and sport, where friends and family motivate each other. The provision of lockers, showers, and clean facilities further supports guests who want to incorporate swimming into their fitness routines or learn to swim in a supportive setting.
What community traditions make Boulder Elks Pool & Patio memorable? This pool and patio have been embedded in Boulder’s social fabric for over fifty years, creating cherished memories that span generations. The venue hosts a variety of recurring social events like the Friday night community BBQs that attract both locals and visitors, fostering a sense of fellowship and weekend celebration. Seasonal events like Memorial Day openings, Fourth of July gatherings, Labor Day parties, and the Summer Send Off Weekend build excitement around the pool’s calendar, giving groups something special to anticipate. Many families have passed down the tradition of learning to swim here, watching children and even grandchildren jump in for their first lessons or swim team tryouts. This continuity blends nostalgia with contemporary enjoyment, making it a place where social ties grow stronger. By coming together at Boulder Elks Pool & Patio, your group participates in a vibrant local legacy that honors friendship, fun, and fitness in equal measure.
What amenities ensure a comfortable and convenient visit for groups? Boulder Elks Pool & Patio is thoughtfully equipped to meet the practical needs of visitors. The pool operates six days a week, with extended hours during special events to maximize flexibility for group planning. Parking is available on-site, facilitating easy access even for larger party vehicles, and the adjacent North Boulder location keeps you close to town amenities without compromising on peaceful surroundings. Inside, clean locker rooms and shower facilities make it convenient to refresh before or after swimming, which is particularly appreciated when coordinating with a group. The patio’s picnic tables and shaded areas provide comfortable seating for meals and socializing. Additionally, the staff maintains a tidy and well-managed environment to enhance overall enjoyment. Whether your group is spending a few hours or an entire afternoon, these amenities contribute to a seamless, pleasant experience from start to finish.
In summary, Boulder Elks Pool & Patio is a standout choice for hosting meetups with friends and family because it offers an inclusive, safe, and scenic outdoor venue stocked with activities and amenities designed for group enjoyment. Its combination of quality swimming facilities, spacious patio, engaging community events, swim instruction, and dependable comfort features creates a dynamic backdrop for fun, relaxation, and connection. Whether you seek a laid-back afternoon with picnic lunches and casual dips or a lively evening BBQ with swim competitions and celebration, Boulder Elks is equipped to meet your group’s needs. Its long-standing history and vibrant community spirit only enrich the appeal, making it more than a place to swim — it’s where friendships are nurtured and memories are made. For anyone looking to rally their friends or family for an active, social, and refreshing meetup, Boulder Elks Pool & Patio stands out as a top destination.