Patch Picks: Jump In, The Water's Nice And Cool!

Looking for a way to beat the heat? Try a day at one of your local pools. Keep cool and carry on.

Read more: (throw a few in your pool bag!)

Meadowhill Aquatic Center (MAC), Northbrook
Meadowhill has a pool for every swimmer: a lap pool, children’s water playground, diving area with three boards, and pool with tube and body slides ― along with a large sun deck and full-service concession stand. In addition to the usual swim lessons, water aerobics and lifeguarding classes, this pool’s special events include Wacky Wednesday and Super Soak Sundays. Look online for the daily schedule, and don’t forget that admission prices are reduced after 6:30 p.m.

Flick Outdoor Pool, Glenview
Tube slides and a water cannon game draw the most attention at this pool, but a closer look reveals areas for swimmers of all ages and abilities. Zero-depth entry helps little ones get their sea legs, an enclosed kiddie pool puts caregivers at ease, and an eight lane lap pool gives serious swimmers a place to stretch out. Some say the Garden Grill with shaded dining area highlights their day. Look online for schedules and fees.

Northbrook Sports Center Pool
If you're looking for a swim after a long day at work, consider this pool west of downtown Northbrook. Reduced price Twilight Admission Fees apply at 5 p.m. daily, offering no excuse for skipping your exercise routine after a long commute home. The pool also has water features for kids, a large sun deck, and a family changing room. Special events include Super Soak Sundays. The daily schedule is available online, and reduced price Twilight Fees kick in at 5 p.m. daily. Children 10 years and younger must be accompanied by someone age 16 or older.

Roosevelt Outdoor Pool, Glenview
East of Flick Pool is Roosevelt Pool, and just like Flick there is water fun for every swimmer. Zero depth entry for cautious beginners; an interactive island of water cannons, waterfalls, drop slides and a diving platform for daredevil tweens; and a lap pool for exercise enthusiests. As the mercury rises, cool off with a Hawaiian shaved ice at the Island Grill. Find fees and schedules online.

, Northbrook
Before you step in the pool, you might want to know how to swim. Little ones of all ages can do just that at the North Suburban YMCA, where the emphasis is on having fun while gaining skills. The Y also offers American Red Cross Lifeguard Training, SCUBA training and water aerobics, among other courses. Visit the website for a full listing of courses and fee information.

Splash Landings Indoor Aquatic Center, Glenview
There’s a waterslide and water play area, lap pool, whirlpool, and warm water therapy pool to keep your whole family smiling on even the rainiest (or snowiest) of days. With a family changing room, childcare providers and an Aqua Shop for purchasing the goggles you probably left at home, this facility has it all. Look online for schedules, fees and information about year-round swim lessons and swim teams.