When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Grant Park Pool
Why Grant Park Pool is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Grant Park Pool, located at 625 Park Avenue SE in Atlanta, GA, is a beloved public outdoor aquatics facility that has been serving the community since its opening in 1974. Its 50-meter main pool, with a consistent approximate depth of 4 feet, features lap lanes ideal for exercise and swimming enthusiasts. Adjacent to the main pool is a smaller, beach-entry kiddie pool accompanied by a shaded splash pad, making it a safe and fun space for families with young children. There are men's and women's locker rooms equipped with showers, however, no concessions are available on-site. The pool operates seasonally, with summer hours generally from late May to late July, welcoming visitors for recreational swimming and fitness activities. Importantly, Grant Park Pool provides free admission in 2025, encouraging broad public access. This combination of historic charm, family-friendly amenities, and community-oriented spirit makes Grant Park Pool a popular local gathering spot for friends and neighbors to meet, swim, and stay active in an outdoor setting.
Here's what people think of Grant Park Pool
As of recent, Grant Park Pool holds a 4.1-star rating based on 237 reviews.
User reviews of Grant Park Pool reveal an overall positive impression, with a current rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on 237 reviews. Reviewers frequently praise the pool's large size and clean facilities, noting the well-maintained lap lanes and the accessible kiddie pool area as highlights that cater to a range of ages and swimming abilities. Many appreciate the free admission policy, which enhances accessibility for all community members. The availability of shaded areas near the splash pad and the presence of locker rooms with showers also receive positive remarks for comfort and convenience. However, some negative feedback centers around the lack of concessions, which visitors find inconvenient during long swimming sessions. A few reviews mention the pool's operational hours as somewhat limited, which could restrict access during peak summer periods. Additionally, while the pool is generally well-kept, occasional concerns about crowding and the absence of on-duty staff at certain times have been noted. In conclusion, the majority of users regard Grant Park Pool as a valuable and enjoyable public resource, with relatively minor issues that do not significantly detract from its appeal as a great place to meet friends and engage in aquatic fitness.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Marcia Gooden
These life guard has their work cut out for them in the kiddie pool. A lot of parents take their little ones drop them off in the kiddie pool which is 3ft deep and simply can't be found when their toddler is swimming with no life vest in the deep part; life guard trying to find parents and directing others at the same time when that happens. I keep my eye out for the little ones because it's not their fault their guardian is not watching them, but that is minimal since my eyes is glued to my child. I can't really relax when I'm here and theirs a lot of kids
Kimberly Wyant
Staff life guard was really rude to us. Made a rude comment towards my group swimming in the lap area as we stopped to take a breath, telling us we could only swim in that area if we were doing laps. I guess you’re not allowed to stop and breathe so you don’t drown. Anyways, a life guard blew their whistle in our direction, but there was no indication of what we were doing wrong so we got out of that area. Then, when got in the laps area a second time and were doing laps, but stopped for a second to breath, a life guard came over and gave us a verbal warning. Though, this time, she was incredibly rude in her tone, stating we had been warned already once and we had one more time before they would kick us out of the pool for being in that area again for not doing laps consistently the whole time in that area. Okay, I understand that now. But the first time, there was a whistle blew at us, but no verbally indication of what we did wrong…….and then there’s also no statement about it on the pool rules posted on the walls…… so how were we supposed to know after the first time with no explanation…..? And also there were other groups swimming in the lap area, not consistently doing laps? Also last summer the pool was closed inconsistently all the time, no warning, so even if you showed up and it said it was open, it wouldn’t be. This summer, it might be different.. we’ll see? Also the pool was very dirty, lots of dirty settled at the bottom. Anyhow, for my first experience at this pool, not a great experience. Rude life guard sort of ruined the whole experiences
Анна Ваисман
Spent here my first day and I am completely happy! The water is clean, not crowded, guards on their duty. I am happy with this place. I saw some people complain the water is nasty, I cant say that, well you might see some leaves in water but, trees gives you shade too. Think its natural. Other words I recommend this place. For public swimming pool its good enough)
N S
We went yesterday, Saturday and when we got there the staff said they weren't letting anymore people in because they were at their capacity which they said was 100 people. There wasn't even 50 people at the pool. They turn away at least 20 people who wanted to get in. Another lady who was trying to get in counted how may people were there at the pool and there was a little over 40 people there. I have been there when there has been over 100 people there and its a huge pool so it can hold more than a 100. Now they did close at 7pm but it was 5:30pm. I don't know what their reason was for lying but I take it that they have poor management and the staff is so lazy and just didn't want to do their job. Just say that instead of making up ridiculous lies when we could clearly see that there was barely any people there.
LaKenya Norris
Very large pool for the community to enjoy. The pool is clean. Spacious bathrooms and common areas are available. Common areas include bathrooms, lockers, and showers. The area is clean and doesn't smell. Kudos to the parks & rec staff for providing a fun, safe, and clean community space.
How to reach Grant Park Pool
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Why Grant Park Pool may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Grant Park Pool with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family at Grant Park Pool is a choice that combines fun, relaxation, and community spirit in one perfect setting. This outdoor public pool, situated in a vibrant urban area, offers a great escape from the daily hustle, inviting groups to enjoy refreshing dips and lively social interactions together. The atmosphere is welcoming and casual, making it easy to connect and celebrate friendships or family bonds in a laid-back environment. With free admission in 2025, it is an accessible destination where cost is no barrier to fun, allowing you to focus fully on quality time with your group. Whether you're looking for a place to cool off on a hot summer day, engage in light exercise with lap swimming, or just hang out by the water, Grant Park Pool checks all the boxes to make your meetup memorable. Its adjacent kiddie pool and splash pad mean it’s family-friendly too, ensuring fun for people of all ages. The combination of accessible facilities, open-air enjoyment, and community energy makes Grant Park Pool a truly ideal location to rally your friends or family for a day of enjoyable togetherness.
What activities are available at Grant Park Pool?
Grant Park Pool offers a variety of water-based activities that cater to different interests and age groups, making it suitable for everyone in your group. The centerpiece is the large 50-meter outdoor pool, perfect for swimming laps or just splashing around with friends. It has a consistent depth of around 4 feet, providing a safe and comfortable environment for swimmers of all levels. For those who prefer more relaxed water activities, there is a smaller kiddie pool with a beach entry, which means a gradual slope into the water, ideal for younger children or those easing into the water. Adjacent to this kiddie pool is a shaded splash pad area, a fantastic feature that adds variety to your day and appeals especially to families with small children. Participants can also use the pool for aquatic exercise, which is both fun and healthful, allowing friends to enjoy a low-impact workout together. While there are no concessions, the pool’s locker rooms and bathrooms offer the necessary amenities to keep your group comfortable and refreshed throughout your visit.
Why is Grant Park Pool perfect for group meetups?
Grant Park Pool’s spacious and well-maintained facility creates an excellent ambiance for groups to have fun and socialize. Its open layout around the main pool and surrounding water features means there’s ample room for friends and family to spread out without feeling crowded. The free admission policy removes the stress of planning expenses and makes it accessible for everyone, no matter the group size or budget. Its family-friendly design accommodates all ages, which is ideal if your meetup includes kids, teens, and adults. The nearby shaded areas with seating provide comfortable spots for resting, chatting, and picnic-style meals, reinforcing a sense of casual community togetherness. Furthermore, the pool’s location in a popular park setting offers convenience and the opportunity to extend your outing with other park activities such as walking or recreational games nearby. The availability of locker rooms with showers allows your group to freshen up post-swim — making it easier to transition to other activities afterward. These features collectively create a welcoming, versatile environment that encourages connection and fun for groups of all kinds.
What should you know about the facilities at Grant Park Pool?
Grant Park Pool is equipped with essential amenities to support a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors. You’ll find well-maintained men’s and women’s locker rooms, which include showers, so you and your group can change and wash up as needed. The presence of these facilities is especially convenient if you plan to spend an extended part of your day at the pool or come straight from work or other activities. Although there are no on-site concessions, visitors are encouraged to bring their own refreshments and snacks to stay hydrated and energized. The pool is outdoors, so visitors should be prepared for exposure to the sun by bringing sunscreen, hats, or umbrellas for shade. The environment is family-oriented, with dedicated spaces like the kiddie pool and splash pad that have safety and comfort in mind for younger attendees. Signage and pool rules are clear to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment, making this a place where groups can feel relaxed and secure while they swim, socialize, and unwind.
How accessible and convenient is Grant Park Pool for visitors?
Grant Park Pool’s urban location within a well-known park makes it easily reachable by a variety of transportation options, enhancing its suitability for group outings. Whether your group prefers driving, public transit, biking, or walking from nearby areas, the pool is conveniently situated to accommodate different travel preferences. As a public facility operated by the city, the pool emphasizes inclusion, offering free admission in 2025 and welcoming all community members. The friendly, open environment encourages repeated visits and ongoing group gatherings. While the pool itself does not provide concessions, parking options nearby or public transit stops facilitate ease of arrival and departure for everyone. Accessibility is enhanced by the pool’s design and the availability of standard amenities like locker rooms, showers, and shaded seating, all of which help visitors of varied needs and mobility. This makes Grant Park Pool not just a destination for fun, but also one where planning a successful meetup is straightforward and stress-free.
What makes Grant Park Pool stand out compared to other pools?
What sets Grant Park Pool apart is its combination of generous size, thoughtful amenities, and community-focused atmosphere all within a central park setting. The 50-meter length of the main pool is a feature typically found in large fitness or competition facilities, giving serious swimmers room to exercise while also serving casual visitors well. The addition of the beach-entry kiddie pool and splash pad caters specifically to families, covering the needs of different age groups. Unlike many pools that require a fee or offer only limited access, this pool’s free admission allows anyone and everyone to partake, democratizing access to healthy outdoor recreation. Its longstanding presence since 1974 has embedded Grant Park Pool deeply in the local community’s social fabric, reinforcing its reputation as a beloved gathering spot. Though there are no in-house concessions, this often results in groups bringing their own food and creating a picnic-like, social atmosphere around the pool that enhances the communal experience. Altogether, Grant Park Pool offers a unique blend of accessibility, size, variety, and community spirit that few other pools can match.
What should you bring and prepare for when visiting Grant Park Pool?
To make the most of your group meetup at Grant Park Pool, it is wise to arrive prepared with several essentials. Since the facility does not offer concessions, bringing plenty of water, snacks, and possibly a picnic meal ensures your party stays hydrated and energized throughout the day. Packing sunscreen and hats is crucial for sun protection due to the outdoor setting. Swimwear, towels, flip-flops, and goggles will make your time in the water comfortable and enjoyable, while a change of clothes and toiletries can help after swimming. For families with children, water shoes and floatation devices might be helpful, especially in the kiddie pool and splash pad areas. Consider bringing portable chairs or blankets for the shaded rest areas if your group wants to relax on the pool deck. Finally, arrive early enough to secure good spots for your group and check the pool’s schedule to optimize your visit during open swim times. Preparing in this way guarantees a smooth, fun, and memorable gathering at Grant Park Pool.
How can you make your meetup at Grant Park Pool even more special?
To elevate your experience at Grant Park Pool, consider incorporating some additional group activities that complement the swimming and relaxing. Bringing along pool games such as water volleyball or pool noodles can add an entertaining competitive edge that engages everyone. After swimming, organizing a picnic with packed lunches or snacks in the nearby shaded picnic areas fosters camaraderie and a festive vibe. Taking a stroll together through the surrounding park before or after swimming introduces variety and allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Bringing portable speakers for light background music (where permitted) can also create a pleasant ambiance without disturbing others. If your group enjoys fitness, joining or initiating a water aerobics or lap swim session can blend fun with health benefits. Lastly, celebrating special occasions like birthdays or reunions at the pool can turn a simple meetup into a memorable event cherished by all attendees.
Why choose Grant Park Pool when planning your next group outing?
Grant Park Pool is an outstanding choice for your next group gathering because it combines affordability, accessibility, variety, and community-friendly features in a way that few public pools do. Its free admission eliminates financial barriers, welcoming groups of all sizes and demographics. The well-maintained facilities and range of water activities make it easy to accommodate different interests, from energetic lap swimmers to playful children enjoying splash pads. The outdoor setting adds a refreshing element to socializing, breaking away from indoor constraints and fostering a healthy lifestyle. Supportive amenities like lockers and showers provide convenience that enhances the overall visit. The pool’s location in a lively park area offers the advantage of expanding your meetup beyond the pool itself to other recreational or leisure activities nearby. This mix of qualities ensures that every visit to Grant Park Pool is more than just swimming—it’s a holistic experience perfect for building memories with your friends and loved ones.