While Toronto is home to some world-class beaches, it also boasts dozens of awesome outdoor swimming pools (57 total across the city) that are perfect for beating the heat and killing a lazy summer afternoon.
All leisure swimming at Toronto’s outdoor pools is 100% free all summer long, so go ahead and dive right into one of these fun pools.
High Park
A green respite for city dwellers, the outdoor pool at High Park boasts shallow and deep ends, along with water slides for added fun. There’s also a recently-installed (gorgeous!) splash pad, along with a number of parks and walking trails that are sure to keep the kids busy all summer.
It is accessible by both car (with ample parking) and transit (High Park subway station). Pack a picnic or pop in for a bite at the family-friendly and affordable Grenadier cafe. Don’t forget some cash for the ice cream vendors located around the park.
High Park Pool, 1873 Bloor St W.
Sunnyside Gus Ryder
Located right beside the lake, swimmers often line up down the Martin Goodman Trail to get into this outdoor pool with stunning views of Lake Ontario. The pavilion has recently undergone renovations, and there’s a cafe and other eats within a short walking distance.
Take the 501 streetcar and walk south to the lake or park in one of the many waterfront lots.
Sunnyside Gus Ryder, 1755 Lake Shore Blvd W.
Alex Duff Memorial Pool
Located on the edge of Christie Pits, this outdoor pool is a favourite among city-dwellers for its 25m lap pool, kiddie pool, and massive hot tub. There is also a TWO STOREY water slide and an access ramp for those who need it.
Get there by subway (Christie station).
Alex Duff Memorial Pool, 779 Crawford St W.
Riverdale Park East
Known as a great place to take in the sunset, Riverdale Park East is undergoing a major revitalization, but the outdoor swimming pool will be open throughout construction.
The 504 streetcar will easily get you there.
Riverdale Park East, 550 Broadview Ave.
Giovanni Caboto
Located in a massive parks and rec area, this outdoor pool is a favourite among west-end Torontonians for its large size and twisty water slide.
There is limited street parking on St. Clair Ave., but the 512 streetcar or 47 Lansdowne bus will get you there just fine. If you get a time-based transfer from the St. Clair streetcar, you’ll only have to pay for transit once if you keep your swim to under two hours.
Giovanni Caboto, 1367 St Clair Ave W.
North Toronto Memorial Community Centre
Located in midtown Toronto, this outdoor pool and community centre boasts programming for all ages and is easily accessed by public transit.
Take the 32 Eglinton bus from either Eglinton or Eglinton West subway stations.
North Toronto Memorial Community Centre, 200 Eglinton Ave W.
Smythe Park
This is one of our favourite outdoor swimming pools for the fact that it is slightly off the beaten path and is surrounded by beautiful outdoor space right next to Black Creek. There’s a smaller pool for the littlest swimmers and a larger one for bigger kids, and there’s also a splash pad and well-equipped park area right next to the pool facilities. Pack a picnic and enjoy a full day next to the water.
It is accessible by both car (with ample parking) and transit (35 Jane bus).
Smythe Park, 61 Black Creek Blvd.
Donald D. Summerville Olympic Pools
The Donald D. Summerville Olympic Pools offer a diver’s dream with a choice of two boards and has recently undergone a multi-million dollar renovation.
It’s conveniently located at Woodbine Beach and is easily accessed by car or by the 501 streetcar or 92 bus.
Donald D. Summerville Olympic Pools, 1867 Lake Shore Blvd E.
Coronation Park Outdoor Pool
Located in the beautiful (and highly accessible) Coronation Park in Hamilton, this outdoor pool features ample parking and change rooms, along with generous public swimming hours. There is a nominal admission fee.
Coronation Park Outdoor Pool, 81 Macklin St N., Hamilton
Ajax Memorial Pool
For those in Durham region or the east-end of Toronto, Ajax Memorial Pool offers a newly renovated facility that boasts accessible change rooms, along with shaded areas on deck.
There’s parking nearby and it is easily accessible by GO or Durham Region Transit. There is a nominal admission fee.
Ajax Memorial Pool, 65 Harwood Ave S., Ajax
Beachway Park
If the pool really isn’t your thing, Beachway Park in Burlington is ideal for a short daytrip and features a gorgeous beach along with changerooms, outdoor showers, playgrounds and concession stands.
Beachway Park, 1100 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington
**If the kids need to learn how to swim, visit our Swim Schools for Kids in Toronto directory!
READ MORE LIKE THIS:
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- Toronto’s Best Splash Pads and Wading Pools
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