News & Politics

Best of Washington 2012: Four Cool Outdoor Pools

Dive in to these four outdoor pools located across the region.

 East Potomac Pool

This no-frills Olympic-size pool attracts athletes, but a generous section is roped off for casual splashers. The facility is aging, but some weekdays can be quiet enough for a snooze in the abundant lounge chairs. 972 Ohio Dr., SW; 202-727-6523; app.dpr.dc.gov/dprmap.

Martin Luther King Jr. Outdoor Pool

In a sprawling park, this facility has 50- and 25-meter lap pools, diving boards, water slides, and leisure and tot pools. The encircling Lazy River has a gentle current that pushes inner-tube riders around the swimmers. 1201 Jackson Rd., Silver Spring; 240-777-8066; montgomerycountymd.gov/rec.

Bethesda Outdoor Pool

Get a great workout swimming and diving in either the Z-shaped pool with 50- and 25-meter lanes or in the smaller lap pool. Kids get junior and kiddie pools. The lawns, picnic shelters, and snack bar offer good resting spaces. 6300 Little Falls Pkwy., Bethesda; 301-652-1598; montgomerycountymd.gov/rec.

Ocean Dunes Waterpark

This kid-friendly facility has two long, twisting slides, a 500-gallon dumping bucket, waterfalls, and squirters. Serious swimmers will find a six-lane lap pool. A spacious deck offers umbrellas and a well-stocked snack shack. 6060 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-534-3437; oceanduneswaterpark.com.

Best of Washington 2012