Recreational Swimming
The City of Burlington offers a variety of recreational swims. Enjoy one of our drop-in recreation swim options offered across our facilities: Fun swim, Combo swim, or Leisure swim. These flexible programs are a great way to stay active, connect with others, and enjoy the water.
Fun Swim
Fun Swims are a great opportunity to connect with friends and family in a lively, community-focused environment. These swims often include exciting amenities such as diving boards, rock climbing walls, and water slides, depending on the facility.
Leisure Swim
Leisure Swim offers a shared, flexible open space designed to support a range of interests. Whether you’re looking to engage in gentle exercise, stay active, or enjoy time in the water with friends and family, this swim provides options for all. Toys and equipment may be available depending on the facility.
Combo Swim
This swim time divides the pool into designated lap and leisure areas. Two lanes are reserved for continuous lap swimming, while the remaining space is set aside for leisure use. The leisure area is split into shallow and deep sections to accommodate a variety of activities. Please note that specialized amenities—such as diving boards and rock walls—are not available during this time.
Access Storage Free Swims
Free Fun Swims are offered at various locations throughout the summer months. Outdoor sessions are walk-in only.
Drop-in Swim
Participants are encouraged to register online in advance for high-demand recreational swims at indoor pools. Outdoor pool swims are available on a walk-in basis only.
For full details on program schedules, amenities, and pool configurations, please view the drop-in schedule.
Child Supervision
6 years of age and under
- Directly supervised within arm’s reach of a responsible person 14 or older
Guardian Ratio:
- 1:2 with no life jackets
- 1:4 with life jackets
7 to 10 years of age
- Successful swim test: Visually supervised by responsible person 14 or older
- Unsuccessful swim test: Directly supervised within arm’s reach of a responsible person 14 or older
Guardian Ratios with an unsuccessful swim test:
- 1:2 with no life jackets
- 1:8 with life jackets
Ages 11+ and older
- No supervision required
- Deep-end access may require a swim test, as determined by the lifeguard.
Swim Test
Swimmers must complete a continuous swim once each visit for the required distance (approximately two widths of the pool), demonstrating the ability to swim comfortably on their front with their face both in and out of the water.
Discover our know before you go tips and guidelines for a safe and enjoyable swim.