Guide to Pools and Splash Pads in the Iowa City Area

Summer is here! Pack your swim bag and take your kids to a local pool or splash pad and let them burn off all of their energy! Check out some of the pool and splash pads in the Iowa City area. Double-check with the facility before loading up and heading out in case of any changes.


Guide to Pools and Splash Pads in the Iowa City Area

Graphic: Iowa City area pools and splash pads


Iowa City Pools

  • City Park Pool, 200 Park Road, Iowa City
    This is an outdoor pool located in Upper City Park. It is great for experienced swimmers, but also has a cute area for little kiddos — but beware this pool is not heated. There is an amazing new playground in Lower City Park, just down the hill from this Iowa City oasis.
  • Mercer Park Aquatic Center, 2701 Bradford Dr., Iowa City
    This is an indoor pool, plus an outdoor wading pool. Another great location for experienced swimmers for the indoor pool. Outside, there is a great wading area for little kids. Mercer Park features one of the best playgrounds in Iowa City on this same property . . . so be prepared for begging from your kids to do both!
  • Robert A. Lee Rec Center, 220 S. Gilbert St., Iowa City
    This is an indoor pool located in downtown Iowa City. Check the city schedule for classes, lessons, and open swim times.

The City of Iowa City posts its pool schedules online. The website also includes details on facilities, rules, pool temperature, and complete facility descriptions. Outdoor facilities are typically open from Memorial Day-Labor Day weekend. Check the website for updated admission costs and hours.


Iowa City Splash Pads

These are all free and are open Memorial Day – Labor Day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

  • Fairmeadows Splash Pad, 2500 Miami Dr., Iowa City
    Go for the Splash Pad but they have a great park, picnic shelter, and bathrooms! There is no parking lot so be prepared for street parking.
  • Tower Court Splash Pad, 1124 Tower Ct., Iowa City
    This is best for young children and has great shade and seating!
  • Wetherby Splash Pad, 2400 Taylor Dr., Iowa City
    Another great playground is connected as well as a shelter, bathroom, and basketball courts.
  • Ped Mall Weatherdance Fountain, 210 S. Dubuque St., Iowa City
    This fun fountain is located right by the public library and downtown playground. Go here for lots of downtown Iowa City goodness.

Map of Iowa City area splash pads


Surrounding Iowa City Area Pools & Splash Pads

  • Coralville Rec Center, 1506 8th St., Coralville
    This is an indoor pool that has a great waddling pool for smaller kids and is separate from the larger indoor pool. It also includes a hot tub!
  • Coralville Aquatic Center, 1513 7th St., Coralville
    This is an outdoor pool that is like a mini waterpark! It has some big slides for big kids and adults, plus a zero-entry pool and splash pad area for little kids.
  • Tiffin Splash Pad, 809 E. Marengo Road
    This splash zone is fenced in and located next to a beautiful park.
  • North Liberty Rec Center, 520 W Cherry St.
    This location includes an indoor and outdoor pool. Enjoy the shallow end for the little kids and a shaded area with a slide. For older kids, it also features great built in slides and monkey bars.
  • Penn Meadows Splash Pad, 170 North Dubuque St., North Liberty
    This baseball-themed splash pad is also fenced in and located next to another great playground.
  • Hills Splash Pad, corner of Aspen Lane and Knoll Ridge, Hills
    Includes a covered shelter and picnic tables. A new accessible playground is currently being constructed near the splash pad.

Pool hours vary. Visit each pool or splash pad’s website for hours and prices. All area splash pads are free to use and open Memorial Day-Labor Day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily.


Private Iowa City Area Pool Facilities

  • University of Iowa Campus Rec and Wellness Center, 309 S. Madison St., Iowa City
    While the cost is more at $10 each for ages 4+, it is so worth it! Enjoy the lazy river, spa, bouldering wall, water play features, and more! Stop for a smoothie after in the café located in the facility.
  • Diventures, 1895 W. Penn St., North Liberty
    We at Iowa City Moms love Diventures. Check out past posts about safety and swim lessons with reviews from local moms.

Both of these facilities offer swim lessons, memberships, and walk-in rates. Visit each facility’s website for complete and up-to-date information! The Iowa City area also features several great beaches and lakes. Have fun!


More Summer Fun in Iowa City

Iowa City Area Summer Events Guide 2022

 

Katie
Katie is a spouse, mother, and professional communicator. She became acquainted with Iowa City as a student at the University of Iowa, earning degrees in Journalism, Political Science, and most recently her MA in Strategic Communication. Katie and her husband met and fell in love in Iowa City, deciding to never leave. Their family can often be found eating their way through downtown, walking their dog in City Park, or cheering on their beloved Hawkeyes at live sporting events.

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