Austin Summer Guide 2024: Dive into Public Pools and Swimming Holes

Summer has arrived early in Austin — and along with it comes the summer heat. But Austin residents are never far away from a place to cool off. In fact, the city’s Aquatic Division even runs 34 public pools and 10 splash pads.

Austin’s Most Popular Swimming Holes: Barton Springs and Deep Eddy Pools

Two of Austin’s most iconic swimming holes — Barton Springs and Deep Eddy pools — are best-known. For getting in, Austin residents have to pay an admission fee of $5 and below, depending on age. For tourists, the fee is $9 and under.

Barton Springs Pool

Barton Springs Pool can be quite crowded, but with its large size, there’s usually enough room for everyone. The north parking lot, however, is closed due to construction, but a large, free unpaved area beneath the MoPac Expressway is at your disposal.

Deep Eddy Pool

As for Deep Eddy Pool, known as Texas’s oldest pool, it’s historic charm is its main attraction. Although there’s just one parking lot, which is free of charge, another free parking spot awaits just off Veterans Drive, west of the pool, under MoPac Expressway.

Exploring Austin’s Free Pools

Out of the city’s 28 free pools, 19 are already open. Six more will be available starting Monday, June 10.

Free Swimming Locations

Some of the free swimming locations include Balcones, Big Stacy, Brentwood, Canyon Vista, Dick Nichols, and more.

Charging Public Pools

There are also chargeable public pools which include Barton Springs, Deep Eddy, Bartholomew, Garrison, Northwest, and Springwoods.

Splash Pads in Austin

Found at 11 parks throughout Austin, splash pads offer a fun respite from the heat. They will be open for the summer, every day from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Splash Pad Locations

Locations include Bailey, Bartholomew, Chestnut, Clarksville, Eastwoods, Liz Carpenter (open until 10 p.m.), Lott, Metz, Ricky Guerrero, Rosewood, and Pease.