When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Medgar Evers Pool
Why Medgar Evers Pool is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Medgar Evers Pool is a welcoming indoor swimming facility located at 500 23rd Avenue in Seattle's Central District. Established in 1970 as part of the Model Cities program to expand recreational and community services, this pool has long served locals as a hub for health, fitness, and social gatherings. The pool features a 25-yard, six-lane heated pool maintained at a comfortable 85 degrees, complete with amenities such as a teaching pool, 1-meter diving board, rope swing, sauna, exercise equipment, and family-friendly changing rooms. An ADA-compliant lift and portable access stairs ensure accessibility for all visitors. Medgar Evers Pool offers a diverse range of aquatic programs including lap swimming, drop-in water exercise classes, swimming lessons for all ages (from 6 months to adults), and swim teams. In addition, public swim sessions are scheduled throughout the week, providing flexible options for recreational swimming and social meetups. Pricing is reasonable, with under-18 admission at $1.00 and adults at $7.00, while children under 4 are admitted free with a paid adult. The pool also supports community inclusion by providing scholarships for swim lessons and free access to drop-in programs for eligible residents. Beyond its recreational offerings, the facility honors the legacy of civil rights leader Medgar Evers, and displays historically significant murals that celebrate community heritage. Its location near Garfield High School and the Garfield Community Center makes it an ideal and accessible gathering spot for friends and families looking to engage in fun and healthy activities together.
Here's what people think of Medgar Evers Pool
As of recent, Medgar Evers Pool holds a 4.4-star rating based on 145 reviews.
User reviews of Medgar Evers Pool reflect a generally positive impression, contributing to its solid 4.4-star rating from 145 reviewers. Visitors often praise the pool's well-maintained facilities and welcoming atmosphere, noting the clean, heated water and the variety of programs suitable for different age groups and skill levels. Many appreciate the affordability and accessibility, highlighting the ADA lift and family-oriented amenities. Highlighted positives include the knowledgeable and friendly staff, the convenience of public lap swim hours, and the engaging water exercise classes. The pool's connection to the local community and its role in youth development through swim lessons and teams also receive commendation. On the downside, some reviewers mention occasional overcrowding during peak hours and limited parking availability near the facility, which can affect the overall convenience. A few users feel that some equipment or locker room areas could benefit from upgrades or more frequent maintenance. Despite these criticisms, the majority agree that Medgar Evers Pool offers excellent value and a vibrant community environment. In conclusion, the reviews suggest that Medgar Evers Pool remains a cherished local venue for aquatic activities and social connection, with strong community support and a commitment to inclusivity and recreation.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Amanda Duke
Another neighborhood treasure. The water is a little cold due to teams using half the pool for swim practice. The teacher is patient and my daughter is making great progress. Very exciting to witness.
Sheen Hunter (#SheenTV! #SeattleFreeze)
Historical site worth a swim.
MX T.
Staff are very friendly,, welcome with smiles and super supportive. Water is very clean, I don't smell bleach like other pools. I swim here 2-3 times per week. Update 7/11/25: on 7/2, a swimmer lost key, staff were very helpful to help him find the key. Five minutes later, another swimmer dived and found key for him at deep area. What a great community! I love swimming here and strongly recommend everyone to come here.
Jaimie Teresa
Very clean overall environment & helpful staff. They have two pools side by side. One shallow pool (roughly up to 3.5 feet) and the other deep pool with separate lanes & a diving board. I appreciated how they sanitized equipment in between uses.
Анна Тигунова
A lot of chemicals in the water. Still a nice place to swim, not crazily crowded for an after-work slot. The staff is really friendly. You need to have a quarter for the locker and prepare to carry the key with you (it has a large pin). The temperature of the water is optimal for me.
How to reach Medgar Evers Pool
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Website: None
Why Medgar Evers Pool may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Medgar Evers Pool with your friends?
Medgar Evers Pool offers an inviting and vibrant environment that makes it an ideal spot to gather with friends or family. Located conveniently next to Garfield Community Center in Seattle’s Central District, this indoor pool boasts a welcoming atmosphere complemented by heated, clean water and ample amenities perfect for both relaxation and active fun. Whether you’re looking to share a leisurely swim, engage in exercise classes, or simply hang out in a lively community setting, this pool space encourages connection and enjoyment for groups of all sizes. Its accessibility and inclusive programming ensure everyone feels comfortable participating, including those with different skill levels or mobility needs. Moreover, with numerous scheduled activities and open swim times, friends can coordinate visits easily, making meetups spontaneous or planned without fuss. The pool also maintains a strong reputation in the community, reflected in its solid 4.4 rating from 145 reviews, highlighting its reliability and popularity. Rallying here guarantees an uplifting shared experience, combining active wellness, friendly competition, and plenty of opportunities to socialize in a supportive environment.
What activities can you do at Medgar Evers Pool?
Medgar Evers Pool hosts a wide range of water-based activities suited for individuals and groups, which makes it perfect for multiple interests and skill levels. The pool offers lap swimming sessions from Tuesday to Friday starting at 11 a.m., which appeals to fitness buffs looking for structured exercise. For those interested in less intense activity, drop-in water exercise classes are available three times a week—Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 1 p.m.—featuring exercises that promote cardiovascular health and strength in a low-impact aquatic environment. Public swims happen Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons, which are ideal for casual swimming, socializing, or letting kids splash around freely in a supervised setting. Additionally, there are gentle swim times during weekday openings, catering especially to adults and children who prefer a more relaxed pace. The facility offers lessons ranging from beginner to advanced levels, including diving classes and swim league training for all ages starting from 6 months old, encouraging skill development for individuals or groups wanting to learn together. This diversity of programs ensures everyone from novices to seasoned swimmers finds engaging options to enjoy.
Why is Medgar Evers Pool perfect for group meetups?
Medgar Evers Pool is designed and operated to support communal experiences and group activities, making it an outstanding venue for meetups with friends or family. The pool is a spacious 25-yard facility with six lanes, heated to a comfortable 85 degrees, which accommodates groups of various sizes without feeling crowded. It also includes features such as a 1-meter and 3-meter diving board and a rope swing, adding excitement and variety to your aquatic gatherings. Family changing rooms provide privacy and convenience for group members, while ADA lifts and portable access stairs ensure everyone can enter and exit the pool with ease, fostering inclusivity. Beyond the water, the pool includes on-site exercise equipment and a sauna, adding value to your visit by enabling complementary relaxation or workouts. The scheduling flexibility—offering lap swim, adult-only swim hours, water fitness, and public swim times—allows groups to select times fitting their availability. Plus, the pool supports community connection by offering financial aid options, making it accessible to families of all economic backgrounds. This blend of amenities, accessibility, and thoughtful programming creates a welcoming, versatile environment where groups can bond, play, and stay active together.
How accessible and inclusive is Medgar Evers Pool for diverse groups?
Medgar Evers Pool places strong emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity, making it a standout community asset. The pool is equipped with ADA-compliant lifts and portable stairs to assist swimmers with limited mobility in entering and exiting the water safely and confidently. Family changing rooms accommodate group needs by offering privacy and functional space for parents and people of varying ages and requirements. Financial assistance programs ensure that families and individuals who may otherwise be unable to participate can enjoy the pool’s offerings, including free or reduced-price swim lessons and drop-in activities. This commitment to affordability promotes equity and ensures diverse community representation during visits. Programming offers a wide range of options to suit different skill levels and ages— from casual gentler swim times to competitive or advanced-level swimming and diving classes. The welcoming atmosphere fosters an environment where all guests feel respected and comfortable, regardless of ability or experience, encouraging repeat group visits and a sense of belonging among friends and families.
What amenities and facilities make the experience at Medgar Evers Pool special?
The amenities at Medgar Evers Pool significantly enhance its appeal for group gatherings and individual enjoyment. The facility features a 25-yard indoor pool with six lanes, which is heated to 85 degrees for comfortable year-round swimming. The pool is complemented by a 1-meter and a 3-meter diving board, adding fun challenges suitable for more adventurous swimmers. A rope swing is also available, injecting playful excitement that can serve as a highlight for group meetups. For those who want to balance water activities with other wellness options, on-site exercise equipment and a sauna provide relaxing alternatives or post-swim relaxation zones. The presence of family-friendly changing rooms adds a layer of convenience and comfort for guests arriving with children or multiple family members. Furthermore, the pool maintains an excellent standard of cleanliness and safety, contributing to a positive atmosphere. These thoughtful amenities not only accommodate various preferences but also encourage people to linger and enjoy their time together, transforming a simple swim into a memorable and enjoyable social experience.
How can groups best plan their visit to Medgar Evers Pool?
Planning a group visit to Medgar Evers Pool is straightforward due to its structured schedule and variety of programs tailored for different needs. Groups should first decide the main purpose of their outing—whether it is lap swimming, attending a water exercise class, diving practice, or simply enjoying public swim hours. The pool’s schedule is clearly posted, offering multiple drop-in options six days a week, with specific sessions for lap swim and water fitness classes to fit various schedules. Booking swim lessons or group swim sessions may require advance registration, especially for specialized activities or seasonal classes. Participants interested in financial assistance can apply online ahead of time to facilitate access to discounted programs. Arriving early is advised for popular times such as Friday evening and Saturday public swims to secure space and lockers. Groups may want to bring their own towels, swim caps, and goggles, though some amenities are available on-site. By coordinating schedules, selecting appropriate sessions, and communicating quickly among attendees, groups can maximize their fun and relaxation at Medgar Evers Pool.
What safety measures does Medgar Evers Pool have in place for groups?
Medgar Evers Pool prioritizes safety with comprehensive measures tailored to its communal setting to ensure a secure experience for all visitors. Lifeguards trained in aquatic surveillance are on duty during all public swim and drop-in sessions, vigilantly monitoring swimmer safety and enforcing facility rules. The pool’s design incorporates clear depth markings ranging from shallow to deep ends, with accessible entry options like ADA lifts and portable stairs to minimize risk for swimmers of varied abilities. Regular water quality testing and temperature control maintain hygienic and comfortable conditions. Safety protocols include clear emergency procedures and first aid availability to respond promptly to any incidents. The facility encourages swimmers to comply with posted rules, such as showering before entering, no running on deck, and limiting diving to designated areas with proper supervision. These safeguards collectively create a secure environment, allowing groups to focus on enjoyment and camaraderie without concerns about hazards.
What are users saying about their experience at Medgar Evers Pool?
Users consistently rate Medgar Evers Pool highly, reflecting positive experiences across diverse groups and activities. With a 4.4 out of 5 rating based on 145 reviews, feedback emphasizes the friendly and skilled staff, cleanliness of the facility, and the pool’s welcoming environment. Visitors appreciate the variety of programs offered, particularly the availability of lap swim and water exercise classes that enhance fitness routines. Many highlight the family-friendly atmosphere and accessibility features that accommodate children and swimmers of all abilities. Comments often mention the peaceful yet lively vibe, where both casual swimmers and serious athletes coexist comfortably. Reviewers also note the reasonable pricing and availability of financial aid, which opens access for underserved community members. This overall positive consensus reinforces that Medgar Evers Pool is a dependable and enjoyable destination to host group gatherings centered on health, recreation, and social connection.
How does Medgar Evers Pool support community engagement?
Medgar Evers Pool serves as a vital community hub by offering inclusive programming designed to engage residents of all ages and backgrounds. It partners with Seattle Parks and Recreation to provide accessible swim lessons, exercise classes, and open swim times that encourage healthy lifestyles. The pool’s financial aid options demonstrate its commitment to overcoming barriers, enabling families and individuals with limited means to participate fully. Beyond physical activity, the pool acts as a social meeting point where community members build friendships and shared memories in a safe, supportive environment. Collaboration with local organizations like Garfield High School and Garfield Community Center further integrates the pool into the neighborhood fabric. By hosting regular drop-in programs and seasonal events, Medgar Evers Pool fosters a sense of belonging and collective wellness that enhances the overall quality of life in its community.
What makes Medgar Evers Pool stand out compared to other pools in Seattle?
Medgar Evers Pool distinguishes itself through its comprehensive blend of accessibility, diverse programming, and community focus. Unlike some pools that simply offer lap swim or lessons, this facility provides a myriad of options including water fitness classes, diving boards, and rope swings that appeal to a broad demographic. Its location next to the Garfield Community Center situates it at the heart of active community life in the Central District. The pool’s thoughtful amenities—family changing rooms, ADA lifts, exercise equipment, and sauna—are not always standard at other city pools, enhancing visitor comfort and experience. High ratings and robust user reviews highlight its maintained cleanliness, professional staff, and welcoming environment. Importantly, its financial aid programs underscore a commitment to inclusivity rarely matched by other venues. Together, these elements create a standout recreational and social destination ideal for meetups that combine health, fun, and community connection.
What future opportunities exist to enjoy Medgar Evers Pool together?
Looking ahead, Medgar Evers Pool continues to expand opportunities for groups and individuals to enjoy aquatic activities together. Quarterly swim lessons scheduled through 2026 include beginner to advanced instruction, enabling continuous skill advancement as interest grows among friends and families. Ongoing drop-in water exercise and lap swimming sessions maintain flexible choices for active lifestyles. Special seasonal programming, holiday events, or swim leagues may further enrich the community experience. The pool’s strong ties with local organizations suggest potential collaborations for group discounts or exclusive social swims. Those interested in membership or regular attendance may benefit from enrolling early, especially if eligible for scholarships. Future enhancements to facilities or amenities could improve accessibility or comfort even more, making it a continually attractive gathering spot. As interest in health and social wellness persists, Medgar Evers Pool is poised to remain a lively center for shared aquatic enjoyment.