When asking yourself about something to do near me in Dallas with a group of friends or family, consider
The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz
Why The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz is a standout community aquatic facility located in North Dallas at 14739 Hillcrest Rd. Known for its beautiful outdoor pool setting, it offers a refreshing and spacious environment ideal for friends and families looking to unwind and enjoy the water. Visitors appreciate the center’s crystal-clear water and well-maintained pool deck, creating an inviting atmosphere for lap swimming, recreational swimming, and family fun. The facility is wheelchair accessible and provides convenient amenities like onsite restrooms, outdoor seating, and customer parking, making visits comfortable and hassle-free. The Cove is part of Fretz Park and operates daily from early afternoon through the evening, providing ample hours for swimming and socializing. Its proximity to major Dallas landmarks such as the Galleria Mall and Dallas Love Field Airport makes it easily accessible. The aquatic center is perfect for meeting up with friends to swim laps in properly marked lanes or simply relax poolside in a clean, safe environment. With its welcoming atmosphere and focus on aquatic excellence, The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz offers a refreshing urban oasis for Dallas residents seeking both leisure and fitness opportunities.
Here's what people think of The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz
As of recent, The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz holds a 4.3-star rating based on 154 reviews.
User reviews of The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz reflect a generally positive experience, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 154 reviews. Many users praise the center for its clean, well-maintained facilities and the quality of the water, highlighting the pride taken in pool upkeep. Positive reviews often mention the friendly and helpful staff, convenient parking, and the peaceful, spacious atmosphere that makes it a great place to meet friends or swim laps without overcrowding. Visitors also appreciate the well-marked lap lanes, which appeal to serious swimmers who seek structure and etiquette in the pool environment. On the other hand, some negative feedback touches on occasional issues such as limited opening hours in the afternoon, and a few users desire enhanced amenities or more shaded seating areas around the pool. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus is that The Cove provides excellent value for those looking for a safe and enjoyable aquatic environment. The community feels it is a reliable local spot for socializing, exercise, and family-friendly activities. The positive aspects strongly outweigh the negatives, positioning The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz as a favored Dallas destination for water-based recreation and relaxation.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
amy goodwin
Fun, clean place to take the family for some fun in the sun!! Lazy river was so much fun, that's where we spent most of the day!! Plenty of lifeguards keeping everyone safe and not allowing horse play, chemical testing many times while we were enjoying the water.. life vests readily available for you to use with many different sizes and tons of smaller kids life vests. They have a concession stand with a variety of treats, eats and drinks to keep you hydrated. Lockers and dressing areas with showers onsite and you can bring your floaties of all shapes and sizes to enjoy. Lots of relaxing chaise loungers with articulating sun shades to protect you from the sun when not sunbathing.. highly recommend and will most definitely be back again this summer.
Ahmad Al-Sammarraie
Our family favorite place ❤️ Very clean, professional stuff Highly recommend
L K
Went to the pool on a Monday and it was fabulous. Busy but not packed in the least. The lifeguards were friendly and responsive, while still maintaining the rules. The pool and bathrooms were clean and the concession stand was open. The facility has plenty of activities to keep the kids busy and as an adult I was able to swim around in the large pool with plenty of space. Would definitely recommend it.
ATrain ETV
Plenty of space in parking lot to park. Price is very affordable I think it was $14 bucks for myself and my child. For a public pool it's awesome with 2 water slides that twist and curve, they are quite fun and fast. It has a lazy river! Which I found very unique for a public pool. Also has those floating pads with net above for kids to try and make it across without falling into the water. Of course it has a regular pool with deep end and divi g board. Plus a kiddy splash play area with small slides and water cannons that can be controlled and aimed, great for toddlers or smaller kids. Ankle high water level in that area. The staff was friendly, plenty of chairs and tables to sit at. For the price and everything it has to offer I'll keep this place in my places to revisit for sure.
Hala Blackman
I really really love this Aquatic center, it’s just the right size, there is plenty of lifeguards that are always polite and professional - the pools are clean, the lazy river is so much fun, the slides are great. The only thing i wish they can make better is the ticket booth, the computers are slow and always jamming- and the concession stand is most of the time out of ice cream and food. But other than that it’s a great place to take the kids!
How to reach The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz
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Why The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz with your friends?
Gathering with friends is about shared experiences and creating memories, and The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz offers an ideal venue to do just that. Nestled in Dallas, Texas, this aquatic center combines the excitement of a water park with the comfort of a social hangout spot. With a strong rating of 4.3 from 154 reviews, it clearly resonates with visitors who value a fun, accessible, and well-maintained environment. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a celebratory party, The Cove’s versatile amenities encourage group bonding through a variety of water-based activities and leisurely spaces. Its scenic outdoor setting, comfortable seating areas, and convenient parking all contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that supports relaxation and interaction. Plus, amenities like shaded pavilions and picnic tables provide perfect spots for your group to gather, eat, and chat between swims. These features make The Cove more than just a swimming pool; it’s a destination where friendships can flourish amid laughter and play. Choosing The Cove for your next meetup means combining active fun, social connection, and conveniences that make hosting stress-free.
What activities are available at The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz that make it great for group meetups?
The Cove offers a broad array of aquatic activities that cater to all ages and skill levels, making it an excellent destination for friends and family gatherings. The center features an 8-lane lap pool, perfect for those who enjoy swimming laps or friendly races, and a diving board for thrill-seekers wanting to show off some daring jumps. A climbing wall adds an adventurous physical challenge to upgrade the fun in the water. For relaxation and less vigorous activity, there is a lazy river where groups can float leisurely and enjoy the outdoors in a calm, gentle current. Children have access to a dedicated toddler pool outfitted with an interactive play structure, offering a safe and engaging space for the little ones to splash around. The facility also includes slides, both open and closed flumes, which add excitement for visitors looking for water rides. Additionally, the water basketball hoop provides a team sport element, perfect for competitive or cooperative play with your friends. These diverse water features ensure that every group member finds something enjoyable, whether they prefer active swimming, thrilling slides, or relaxed floating, creating memories for all ages and interests.
How does The Cove at Fretz accommodate groups and support a social atmosphere?
The Cove is thoughtfully designed to support not only aquatic fun but also socializing and group comfort. The center provides a sizable covered pavilion with picnic tables that seat up to 36 people, ideal for hosting large group gatherings, celebrations, or parties with plenty of shade and space. For those who prefer a smaller or more private setting, there are round tables with umbrellas scattered throughout the facility, each seating about 8 guests. These table rentals allow groups to secure a specific meeting spot to relax between activities or enjoy food and refreshments together in comfort. Family changing rooms and restrooms enhance convenience, especially for groups with children or mixed ages, making transitions between water activities easy and comfortable. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all members of your party. Concession stands offer snacks and drinks, so your group can refresh without leaving the premises. Moreover, easy parking and onsite services such as outdoor showers and seating make the entire visit seamless, allowing groups to focus on spending quality time together rather than logistics.
What makes The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz a convenient and appealing location?
Located on Hillcrest Road in Dallas, The Cove Aquatic Center sits conveniently near many well-known landmarks, including the Galleria Mall and the American Airlines Center, making it easy to access for locals and visitors alike. The center has reliable parking available for guests, which is a major plus when coordinating meetups with multiple cars. It is also open daily from 12:30 pm to 7:00 pm, providing consistent and predictable hours for planning events. The availability of table and pavilion rentals, some with umbrella shade, gives groups a level of flexibility in customizing their experience. With a clearly structured pricing system — $11 for children under 48 inches, $14 for taller kids and adults, with free admission for children under 2 — it’s affordable for families and friend groups on a budget. Various options for reservation, including online or in-person, simplify coordination for group leaders. The presence of amenities like a concession stand means your group can spend the day enjoying activities without needing to leave for food, making for a convenient, all-in-one outing. This ease of use, combined with an engaging aquatic environment, positions The Cove as a top choice for social and recreational gatherings.
How can you make the most of a group visit to The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz?
To maximize the enjoyment of your meetup at The Cove, consider reserving a pavilion or a table with an umbrella to ensure your group has a dedicated space to rally around. Booking a pavilion in advance guarantees shelter from the sun and ample seating, allowing your party to eat, rest, and socialize comfortably. Second, plan a mix of activities that appeal to different interests within your group—some can enjoy lap swimming or diving, while others drift along the lazy river or challenge each other at water basketball. Bringing along coolers with refreshments is an option, though it incurs a modest fee, so weighing on-site concession options versus packing food is wise. Coordinate arrival times to kick off with a group activity and use scheduled breaks to regroup in the pavilion for snacks or chatting. Remember the availability of family changing rooms and bathrooms to maintain convenience for everyone involved. Lastly, consider making use of The Cove during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid crowds and have a quieter, more relaxed experience. These planning tips leverage the full offering of the facility, ensuring your group event is smooth, fun, and memorable.
What additional features enhance visitor comfort and safety at The Cove?
Visitor comfort and safety are priorities at The Cove Aquatic Center. The facility includes family changing rooms, allowing groups, including families with young children, to change comfortably and conveniently. Restrooms and outdoor showers are conveniently located to wash off before and after swimming, adding to hygiene and refreshment options. The presence of shade structures and umbrellas at tables helps protect visitors from the sun, reducing the risk of heat exhaustion during summer months. The pool and entire facility are wheelchair accessible, showing a commitment to inclusivity and ensuring all visitors can participate and enjoy the amenities. Lifeguards are stationed to maintain safety during swimming hours, and multiple aquatic features cater to different skill levels, which helps prevent accidents by separating beginners from more advanced swimmers. These measures create a safe and welcoming place for groups to gather, enjoy, and relax without worry.
How does The Cove accommodate special events and private group rentals?
For groups seeking an exclusive gathering space, The Cove Aquatic Center offers private rentals outside of regular operating hours. These rentals include access to the pools and facilities and require a minimum two-hour booking at a rate of $700 per hour, in addition to group admission fees per person. This option is perfect for birthday parties, corporate outings, or large family reunions that want privacy and control over scheduling. Furthermore, some locations have private party rooms that can be rented for $450 per day, providing additional event space away from the general public. Tables with umbrellas and covered pavilions are also available for daily rental during public hours, facilitating flexible arrangements for groups of varying sizes. These services make The Cove not only a great place for casual meetups but also an attractive venue for organized events, with the support of staff who assist in reserving spaces and ensuring the event runs smoothly. This level of customization and exclusivity offers significant value for anyone planning a memorable group outing.
With its multitude of aquatic attractions, supportive amenities, accessibility, and options for private events, The Cove Aquatic Center at Fretz is an excellent choice for hosting a meetup with friends or family. It combines fun, safety, and convenience in a setting designed to foster connection through shared water experiences and social spaces. Whether for an active day of swimming and play or a relaxed party with plenty of seating and shade, The Cove delivers a dependable, enjoyable destination that invites groups back time and again.