We know, we know: Summer is hot. And while diving into festivals and concerts is one way to stay cool (figuratively, at least), sometimes you need a fully submerged experience. Grab the floaties and the SPF. We’ll see ya at the pool.
Everybody In!
Ace Hotel
This sleek spot on Carondelet Street has a rooftop pool that’s open to the public. All they ask is that swimmers (or loungers) who aren’t guests of the hotel spend at least $20 at the rooftop bar, which also serves light bites. Pretty easy task, if you ask us.
Cool Zoo at Audubon Zoo
Besides already being a great place to take the family during the summer months, the Audubon Zoo houses the fun and refreshing Cool Zoo, a splash park featuring a new lazy river, water spouts, a water slide, and more. The Cool Zoo is open for weekends beginning April 7 and opens for the summer season seven days a week beginning May 26.
The Country Club
This once clothing-optional Bywater institution is a great place to cool off and is one of the best places for a delicious and entertaining Sunday brunch (people-watching included).
NORDC Pools
The New Orleans Recreation and Development Commission (NORDC) operates and maintains 15 outdoor swimming pools. These free public swimming pools are open during the summer months to all ages; however, children under 8 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Swim classes are also offered during the summer months.
Members Only
New Orleans Athletic Club
Built and housed in a historic, elegant facility on North Rampart street, this five-lane, heated swimming pool, modeled after the Roman baths, will transport you back in time. No day passes here, but a membership to NOAC gets you swim time and a ton of amenities including access to the entire gym, library, and poker room.
The New Orleans Jewish Community Center
If you happen to have a good friend who has a membership at the JCC, you’re in luck! For those of us who don’t, a membership is required, but totally worth it for all of the family-friendly activities at this Uptown swimming pool: Family Fun Night, swim lessons, lifeguarding classes, and more.
Cool Off for the Day
UNO Aquatic Center
Just because you’re a few years past your college graduation doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of this university’s top-notch facilities. For only $10 for a day pass, you get access to the University of New Orleans Aquatic Center’s indoor and outdoor pools. You can also purchase monthly or annual memberships if your swimming habits know no season.
Staycation
Hotel Monteleone
Long regarded as one of the best hotels in the French Quarter, the Hotel Monteleone also offers its guests one of the best pools in the city. This super posh rooftop pool, complete with poolside bar, also has some of the best views of New Orleans.
Le Meridian
Formerly known as the W New Orleans Downtown, this chic and tranquil outdoor pool offers luxury cabana rentals, sweeping views of the city, and food and beverage service. A great spot to soak up the warm Louisiana sun. What’s more, they’ve loosened their policy and have opened up the hotel pool to the public on Monday – Thursday for $10/day and Friday to Sunday $15/day from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
