Swimming Pools in Atlanta & Decatur

In Atlanta, surviving the summer heat means having access to one of the numerous pools that are available to residents, typically for those with a membership. No summer is complete without the sights and sounds of tanned bodies by the pool, kids screaming for their mom's undivided attention as they jump into the water, and the brazen teenager who attempts to tackle dad into the deep end.

If you’re searching for your cool-down spot this summer, here's a helpful guide to our to a few of our favorite public and private pools in In-town Atlanta and Decatur.

The Grant Park Pool

The Grant Park Pool is a 50-meter private pool in the center of the neighborhood’s swatch of towering trees and large hills. This pool isn’t your typical shallow-to-deep end pool as it is customized to remain the same depth of 4.5 feet throughout. There is a free swim period Monday-Friday between 1:30 PM and 4 PM. Other swim times are paid.

You can purchase an annual pass for $110 per adult, or $65 for youth and seniors. Check out the website for more information and prices: http://www.grantparkpool.org/

Emory University Pool

Emory University hosts a massive 50-meter, Olympic-sized pool as part of their Student Activity and Academic Center. The pool has ten lap lanes, a kiddie pool, several diving boards at the deep end, a teaching pool for new swimmers, and a shallow end larger than most other pools. With a fourteen-visit membership to the pool, you also get access to the other athletic benefits of the complex, such as the tennis and basketball courts, locker rooms, volleyball pit, snack bar, and fitness center.

There’s more to the Emory University Pool than just swimming. There are also chairs, umbrellas, and places to grill, perfect for any get-together. Summer membership packages start at $330 per person or $660 per family. Check out the site for more information: http://saac.emory.edu/

Chastain Park Pool

North Atlanta has been known as an area that loves to play. Chastain Park pool is one of the reasons why. It’s much more than just a country club with a pool, equestrian activities, tennis, and golf, but boasts an incredibly laid-back atmosphere and rustic ambiance that is always being upgraded to suit their members.

The pool itself has ten lap-lanes, a diving board, and even grandstands for groups or spectators. Check out their website for more information: http://www.chastainparkathleticclub.org

Glenlake Bathhouse and Pool

Over the past several years, Decatur, Georgia has morphed into its own city, becoming more urban and incredibly accessible. Glenlake Bathhouse and Pool sits at the northern end of the 17-acre park. Here the sounds of summer resonate around a 50-foot pool with lap lanes, a large shallow area, deep end, lifeguards for safety, and a nice picnic nook area with plenty of lounging chairs.

The price per swim is $3 for residents of Decatur (14 and over) or $5 for non-residents. Check out their website for more information: http://www.decaturga.com/index.aspx?page=280

Piedmont Park Pool

After a major renovation to Piedmont Park and its pool in 2009, the park now has a little something for everyone, including an updated appearance that’s pleasing and aesthetic. The pool itself overlooks Lake Clara Meer and has an entryway to the beach, several lap lanes, and even a series of fountains with a current of water to carry you through.

Fees are $4 per adult and $2 per child (ages 6-16). Please visit the site for more details: http://piedmontpark.org/do/swimming

Living in a city called Hot-lanta, you’re bound to find plenty of pools and creative ways to stay cool during the dog days of summer, and these pools are some of the best!