Backyard Getaways: Pools to Help You Beat the Heat
When the Twin Cities goes through a heat blast, many of us want to stay cool at the pool. Backyard Getaways found a couple of popular swimming spots that have plenty to offer.
Life Time Pool in Plymouth
Our first stop was the Life Time Fitness pool in Plymouth.
“It is a gorgeous set-up,” said Ginger Spronk of Independence. “We think it’s very kid-friendly with the zero entry and the water slide options.”
When the temperature rises people flock to this pool.
“Last summer I saw up to 140 or 150 people in the pool,” said Life Time’s Krisein Stanley. “Non-members and members alike can come and join the pool indoors and outdoors.”
The water slides are a big draw for kids. They love slip, sliding their way their way into the shallow end of the pool.
“They’re always a fan favorite for sure,” Stanley said. “You just have to be 42 inches tall to use them so there’s no age requirement or swimming ability.”
There is a focus on safety at the Plymouth pool with multiple life guards keeping an eye on the water. The grounds are also immaculate.
Anoka Aquatic Center
Our next stop was the Anoka Aquatic Center.
“It’s only gonna get hotter,” said a mom from Ramsey. “Come on down. Anoka is waiting for you.”
Take the plunge here and you will cool off quickly. The Aquatic Center is affordable fun for everyone.
“Admission is $7 max depending on your height,” said Nickie Jenks, Anoka Recreation Manager. “Our season passes, the first one is $45 so they pay themselves off in about seven visits.”
In 1998, the Aquatic Center was rebuilt. It morphed from a small pool to a place with a huge footprint. The facility has cargo nets, floating pads, slides and lots of energetic kids splashing around in the summer sun. The climbing wall and dump bucket are big attractions.
“The big dump bucket came in last year and to this day we still have kids counting down that dump bucket,” Jenks said. “They just sit under there and love the water coming down on them.”
Safety is also paramount at the Aquatic Center.
“Anytime we’re open we have a lifeguard on duty,” Jenks said.
