When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Buhr Outdoor Pool
Why Buhr Outdoor Pool is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Buhr Outdoor Pool in Ann Arbor is a premier destination for friends and families looking to enjoy a refreshing and active day outdoors. This 25-yard outdoor pool offers ample space for recreational swimmers as well as dedicated lap lanes for fitness enthusiasts, ensuring everyone can enjoy their preferred swimming style. One standout feature is the 12-foot deep diving well, accessible to swimmers who pass the deep-end test, adding an adventurous element to the pool experience. For families with young children, Buhr Pool boasts a zero-entry Tot Pool that is shallow and safe, encouraging little ones to explore the water comfortably. The facility includes well-maintained locker rooms, picnic tables, and lounge chairs, creating a relaxing environment for socializing or sunbathing. Beyond the summer months, Buhr transforms into a winter recreational spot with an open-air, regulation-size ice rink equipped with outdoor heaters for comfort. Strategically located within Buhr Park, the pool is surrounded by other amenities such as tennis courts, picnic areas, and gardens, making it an ideal all-day outing location. The friendly atmosphere and variety of amenities make Buhr Outdoor Pool a beloved meeting place for friends who want to combine fitness, fun, and relaxation in a beautiful natural setting.
Here's what people think of Buhr Outdoor Pool
As of recent, Buhr Outdoor Pool holds a 4.9-star rating based on 15 reviews.
Users consistently praise Buhr Outdoor Pool for its clean, well-maintained facilities and family-friendly atmosphere. Many reviewers highlight the peaceful environment, noting that the pool is usually not overcrowded, which enhances the overall experience. The separate toddler splash pool receives particular acclaim as a safe and enjoyable spot for young children, while the availability of lap lanes appeals to fitness swimmers. Positive reviews also mention the helpful and courteous staff, alongside the convenient amenities such as picnic areas and lounge chairs for relaxation. On the flip side, some users have pointed out that parking can be limited during peak times, which may require planning ahead or using alternative parking lots nearby. A few reviews mention that large groups are not accommodated, which may affect visitors planning bigger gatherings. Despite these minor drawbacks, the vast majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, appreciating the pool's combination of recreational and fitness facilities, as well as its integration within the surrounding park. Overall, Buhr Outdoor Pool enjoys a strong reputation as a clean, friendly, and enjoyable place where visitors can swim, relax, and socialize with friends and family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Matthew Gezewich
First time here after looking for a tranquil spot to lounge in the sunshine. I'm so glad I found this place! The chairs were cozy and very plentiful, relaxing/happy music from 2pm - 4pm AND $2 ice cream bars ❤️🌞
razvan “razz” dragomir
Great place for a swim session. Recommended.
Freyja Fenris
The kiddo and I had a great time here today! The local day camp showed up, so there was some added chaos, but everyone had fun!
Dakira Atkins
Amazing life guards and all as well a great place to start your summer
john siegel
Great family pool with a separate pool kiddie pool area.
How to reach Buhr Outdoor Pool
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Why Buhr Outdoor Pool may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Buhr Outdoor Pool with your friends?
Gathering your group for a fun, refreshing, and engaging outing becomes effortless when you choose Buhr Outdoor Pool. With its stellar 4.9-star rating based on 15 reviews, this Ann Arbor gem stands out as an ideal spot to rally your friends for a memorable day together. The appeal lies not just in its pristine swimming facilities but in the welcoming, vibrant atmosphere the pool provides, making it perfect for socializing and reconnecting. Whether you’re seeking active water play, relaxation under the sun, or a spot to picnic alongside, Buhr Outdoor Pool offers a versatile environment that caters to varying tastes and age groups. The pool’s expansive space allows for comfortable mingling without feeling crowded, ensuring your group can enjoy quality time without distractions. Furthermore, its reputation for cleanliness and excellent management means you can focus on fun without worries. The surrounding park’s amenities add to the experience, offering lush green spaces and seating areas where your group can gather before and after swimming sessions. In essence, Buhr Outdoor Pool combines a top-tier aquatic experience with a social hub atmosphere that encourages laughter, play, and relaxation, making it the ultimate rendezvous point for friends.
What activities can you enjoy at Buhr Outdoor Pool?
Buhr Outdoor Pool presents numerous activities designed for all ages and interests, making it a versatile destination for groups. The pool is a 25-yard facility featuring six lanes for lap swimming, perfect for fitness enthusiasts and those who want to add a bit of structured exercise to their meetup. For those less inclined to serious swimming, the recreational open swim times provide ample opportunity to splash around and enjoy the water at a more relaxed pace. Children, especially toddlers and preschoolers, benefit from a separate zero-entry tot pool with interactive play toys, ensuring younger members of your group have a safe and engaging space to enjoy. For adventurous swimmers, a 12-foot deep diving well is available, accessible to those who pass the deep-end swim test, adding a thrilling option to splash into and further diversify your group’s activities. Around the pool area, lounge chairs and picnic tables offer spots to rest, chat, or enjoy snacks and beverages, turning the visit into a full-day social event. This variety means your group can tailor their experience, from water fitness to casual swimming and relaxation, ensuring everyone finds something enjoyable.
Why is Buhr Outdoor Pool perfect for group meetups?
Buhr Outdoor Pool’s layout and amenities are crafted to accommodate groups comfortably without sacrificing the quality of experience. First, the pool area is spacious, allowing friends to spread out while still staying connected, which is crucial for group dynamics that balance activity and social time. The presence of multiple pools — including the main pool, diving well, and tot pool — supports diverse group members, from active swimmers to families with little kids, making it inclusive of all ages and capabilities. The surrounding park area enhances the meetup appeal with picnic tables and green spaces, ideal for breaks, outdoor games, or simply relaxing in the shade. Additionally, the pool’s operational hours, which include long weekend and weekday evenings, provide flexible timing options for scheduling group activities without rush. Safety is well-managed with on-site lifeguards and clear rules, contributing to a worry-free environment that lets groups focus on enjoying themselves. While large groups over ten are advised to consider other city pools for reservations, Buhr warmly welcomes families and friend gatherings, reinforcing its community-friendly reputation. These factors create an inviting, adaptable setting where groups can engage in swimming, socializing, and celebrating together.
How accessible and convenient is Buhr Outdoor Pool for visitors?
Convenience and accessibility play a key role in why Buhr Outdoor Pool is a favored location for social gatherings. Situated at 2751 Packard Road in Ann Arbor, the pool is easily accessible from surrounding neighborhoods and main roads, simplifying logistics for group arrivals. For those driving, several parking options are available, including a nearby lot directly at the pool and additional spaces in adjacent dirt lots and Cobblestone Farm parking, which even offers shaded spots — a valuable perk on sunny days. Although the main lot can fill up during peak times, the multiple parking areas minimize the risk of parking hassles. The pool is also within a larger city park, adding the advantage of extra recreational spaces and facilities nearby. The pool operates seasonally with hours that accommodate various schedules, opening by mid-May and running through mid-September, with times adjusted during the school year to maximize availability for local families and groups. Additionally, locker rooms and restroom facilities on-site add comfort and practicality, allowing visitors to change and refresh conveniently. This blend of location, available parking, and facility amenities ensures that gatherings face minimal obstacles, letting friends focus on the fun.
What makes Buhr Outdoor Pool stand out compared to other local pools?
Among Ann Arbor’s summertime aquatic options, Buhr Outdoor Pool distinguishes itself through a combination of quality, variety, and community atmosphere. Unlike some pools that primarily cater to either families with young kids or serious swimmers, Buhr strikes a balance, offering both a child-friendly tot pool and dedicated lap lanes plus a diving well for advanced swimmers. This inclusivity broadens its appeal to a trailing diverse crowd. Users consistently highlight the pool’s cleanliness, attentive lifeguards, and the responsiveness of park staff, all of which contribute to an overall sense of safety and comfort. The pool’s rating of 4.9 out of 15 reviews indicates strong positive feedback, which serves as social proof to new visitors considering a visit. Furthermore, the outdoor, open-air nature of Buhr Pool provides a sunny, natural environment that few indoor or crowded city pools can match. Seasonal events, such as pool-themed gatherings or community festivities, occasionally occur here, enhancing the social vibe and making visits memorable. Coupled with the added year-round attraction of an ice rink on-site during colder months, Buhr Park offers a dynamic recreational hub customers appreciate all year long.
How can groups make the most of their visit to Buhr Outdoor Pool?
To fully capitalize on a day at Buhr Outdoor Pool with friends or family, planning and coordination can elevate the experience. Arriving early is advisable to secure parking close to the pool and to claim lounge chairs or picnic tables, which can become limited during peak hours. Bringing along pool toys or floating devices can add a layer of interactive fun during open swim times, although consulting pool rules beforehand is recommended to ensure compliance. Since outside swim instruction or coaching is not permitted, groups interested in swim lessons or training should consider registering separately through city-approved programs, freeing up open swim hours for social enjoyment. Packing picnic snacks or organizing a group potluck can transform the day into a festive gathering of food and fun while taking advantage of the pool’s picnic facilities. Lastly, keeping abreast of weather conditions is important since the pool closes temporarily for thunder and lightning with no refunds, but operations resume promptly when safe. Through such preparation, group meetups at Buhr Outdoor Pool can become seamless, engaging, and inclusive adventures that satisfy all members, creating a tradition of joyful outdoor swimming and camaraderie.