If you live in Arkansas and it's July, it's HOT and everyone is looking for some ways to beat the heat. Sure, you can stay in all day under the air conditioner, but wouldn't it be more fun to get outside? My favorite way to beat the summertime heat wave is to get wet. Don't have a pool? Don't worry! Little Rock has many public swimming areas for your enjoyment.
1. Lake Nixon
Lake Nixon is a man-made lake with a sandy bottom. Since it's man-made, it doesn't have some of the rocks and things that lakes like Ouachita have. They have a water slide and diving boards and much of the lake is shallow enough for small children to play in. Admission is $5.00 ($4.00 for kids). Open Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. See site or call 501-374-9286 for more info.2. War Memorial Pool
This pool is owned by War Memorial Fitness center but you don't have to be a member to swim. With it's close proximity to The Zoo and War Memorial Park, it's a nice place to take a quick dip. The price is right too. Admission is just $5 for adults and $3.50 for kids under 16. Hours vary but they are open most days from 12:00-5:00. Call 501-664-6976 for more info.3. Willow Springs
Willow Springs is a water park with a 400 ft slide, water sports and a log roll. They also have a kiddie area and a place to picnic. Admission is $13 ($10 for kids under 15). Hours vary but most days they are open from 11:00 - 6:00. See site or call 888-4148 for more information.4. Wild River Country
This is definitely the biggest and the best water park near Little Rock. They have themed water slides, a wave pool, river rafting rides, kiddie areas and more. Admission is a little pricey($26.99/$17.99 kids)but they have special discounted rates for things like "Night Water"($17.99)and you can get discount tickets locally. They are open 10:00-8:00. See site or call 753-8600 for more information.5. Crystal Falls / Magic Springs
Arkansas Visitor's Center and Convention Bureau
If you really want a day out, try Magic Springs! This is two parks in one. You get admission to a really great water park and an amusement park for one price. The price is a bit steep ($35.99 adults/$30.99 kids plus parking online) but they have lots of rides and you can stay all day. Hours vary but they are open most days from 11:00-6:00. See site for more info. Located in Hot Springs.
6. Little Rock Athletic Club & Little Rock Racquet Club
Both of these are multi-purpose health clubs with swimming lessons and more. The fee to join is pricey ($300 + monthly fee), but well worth it if you'll be swimming a lot with your family and you can take advantage of the other amenities. Be sure to check out the website and find out which location's offerings and schedule matches best with your family. Little Rock Athletic Club4610 Sam Peck Rd.
501-225-3600
Little Rock Racquet Club and Fitness Center
1 Huntington Rd.
501-225-5711
