Wake County
Biltmore Pool
701 Crown Crossing Ln., Raleigh
The outdoor pool at Biltmore Hills Park offers something for everyone. Get there early on weekdays for dedicated lap swim, or enjoy the recreational swim in the afternoons. Practice your dives and flips in the 12-foot deep end or lounge on the poolside chairs. Information on hours, admission and more can be found on the City of Raleigh website.
Buffaloe Road Aquatic Center
5908 Buffaloe Road, Raleigh
Excitement and relaxation are on offer at Buffaloe Road Aquatic Center. Hop aboard the three-story waterslide (riders must be 48 inches tall) or float along the lazy river for a mellow day at the pool. The facility also features a water vortex, three lap lanes and an area for young children, making it suitable for any type of swimmer. Visit the City of Raleigh website to learn more.
Falls Lake State Recreation Area
13304 Creedmoor Road, Creedmoor
Make a splash while enjoying the beauty of Falls Lake. Public swim beaches are open at Beaverdam, Rolling View and Sandling – just check seasonal hours before you go. All swim areas are wheelchair accessible, with smooth paved paths leading right to the water. Entry fees apply in summer, but there are no additional fees for swimming. Note: Holly Point is currently closed for construction.
Fantasy Lake
3601 Quarry Rd., Wake Forest
Take your pick of kayaking, paddleboarding or sliding down one of the inflatable waterslides at Fantasy Lake. Younger visitors can enjoy a new kids zone and splash pad. Take a break from the sun with on-site concessions and relaxation areas. If you’re scuba certified, bring your equipment and take advantage of 65 acres sectioned off for diving. Visit the Fantasy Lake website for more information on hours and admission.
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
280 State Park Road, Apex (Visitor Center)
This 21-square-mile lake offers a whole host of outdoor activities. With seven different access points, guests can swim, kayak or paddleboard around the lake, or spend time hiking or picnicking on shore. Located near Crosswinds Campground, the privately-owned Crosswinds Marina provides visitors with daily kayak, paddleboard and boat rentals. Visit the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area website for more information about access points and admission.
Optimist Pool
5902 Whittier Drive, Raleigh
This facility located in Optimist Park includes both indoor and outdoor areas. Swim laps inside in the Olympic pool, or head outside to chill in the wading pool. Adventurous types can also hang out in the 12-foot deep pool, complete with a climbing wall. Information on hours, admission and more can be found on the City of Raleigh website.
Triangle Aquatic Center
275 Convention Drive, Cary
This indoor-outdoor facility prides itself on its commitment to fitness and was chosen by the U.S. Olympic Swim Team to host domestic training for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The outdoor Olympic pool is available for open swim, and additional amenities include a gym, full kitchen and multipurpose room. Hungry swimmers can also stop by the Poolside Grill for a bite to eat. Check out the Triangle Aquatic Center website for admission details.
Durham County
Eno River State Park
6131 Cole Mill Road, Durham (Visitor Center)
The 40-mile-long Eno River runs right through the Triangle, giving residents a number of great spots for outdoor recreation. Cool off with a swim, go fishing along the riverbank or paddle down the river in a kayak or canoe. The park also offers 36 miles of hiking trails, some of which boast scenic views of the river. Visit the Eno River State Park website to learn more about admission, access points and trail availability.
Orange County
A.D. Clark Pool
216 North Roberson St., Chapel Hill
A.D. Clark Pool, located in the historic Northside neighborhood at Chapel Hill’s Hargraves Community Center, is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day for outside fun. The pool is perfect for swimmers of any skill level, complete with four lap lanes and a zero-depth entry area. Check the Town of Chapel Hill website for more information on hours, admission and special events.
Orange County SportsPlex Aquatic Center
101 Meadowlands Dr., Hillsborough
This indoor facility is designed with the whole family in mind. The competition pool is perfect for lap swimming, while the recreation pool offers an area for relaxation. The 1-foot deep wading pool invites little swimmers to bring their toys and splash around. If you’re looking for other ways to escape the heat, the SportsPlex also boasts an indoor ice rink and basketball courts. Visit the Orange County SportsPlex website for more information on hours and admission.
Chatham County
Bray Park Aquatic Facility
700 Alston Bridge Road, Siler City
Spend the day under the sun at this community pool. Splash around in water buckets and spray jets, or simply relax in the water. Guests can also bring food for a poolside lunch at the picnic shelter. This pool is a great place for outdoor family fun, open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Head to the Bray Park Aquatic Facility website to find admission information.
Lower Haw River State Natural Area
Chatham County
This section of the Haw River in Chatham County is designated as a State Natural Area, which prioritizes conservation over recreation, making it a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy a peaceful getaway. Tube or paddle down the river in rentals from The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co. or bring binoculars for birdwatching and other wildlife viewing. Find access points and more information about the area at the Friends of Lower Haw River website.
Looking for more to-dos this summer? Check out our seasonal roundup!
