Boston Area Public Pools: What You Need To Know

Although we have an entire coastline filled with great harbor spots and Atlantic coastline, to a kid, there is nothing like a giant pool to swim in. Now, with the summer fully underway, Boston area public pools are open. So, let's dive in. Here are some important points to know.

Last week we experienced a heat wave that saw temperatures hit the 90's. With July and August still ahead of us, we are certainly bound for more of them. Perhaps that means just more swimming.

As an adult it can be hard to fully understand how a manmade pool filled with people and chlorine is more desirable than the ocean waves and salt water. However, assuming the kids have learned to swim, it does make sense that the pool feels like a more comfortable safe place to splash around. You can see the bottom, it's more predictable, and receptive to cannon balls. If your public pool has a spash pad section filled with waterfalls and shallow ends, then forget it, the pool is winning the battle 10 out of 10 times.

You can find a full list of detailed public pools in the greater Boston area on the Mass.gov website. In the city proper area alone, there are three pools now open, including the SWC-Mission Hill. Then, there are five in Cambridge and three in Somerville.

Massachusetts lists 20 different pools that qualify as interactive aquatic venues. This means they have areas that include spray decks. The Boston Common Frog Pond spray deck is free to use. In fact, today is their opening day.

Check your local listing information as to what requirements are needed to enter the pool. Some require a membership or have capacity limit. "There is no charge for membership or programming at BCYF centers and pools but visitors need to create a membership at Boston.gov/BCYF-Registration," the city explains. Furthermore, the City of Boston also has programs led by Mayor Michelle Wu that allow free swimming lessons.

Lastly, if your resources allow, there are some private health clubs that also open their outdoor pools from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For example, the Weymouth Athletic Club has both a splash pad and lap pool enclosed in its outdoor deck. You will also find a hot tub. Yes, you do need to pay for a monthly membership but that will also allow you to use the exercise facilities.

It's officially spring, it's officially baseball season, and it's time to get back to the skateparks. In Boston, there are various park options spread throughout the city. Avid boarders know the best alley-way pockets and flights of steps to properly ollie down. But if you are looking to freshen up your gear there are great stores in the area for you to be stoked about. Here we will highlight four Boston area skateboard shops you need to know.

Where will you take your board in Beantown? One of my favorites is Reservation Road Park, in the Hyde Park neighborhood. It's centered around a big bowl that contains rails through the middle. There are also plenty flat edges along the side. This park is newly renovated offering fresh air and fresh rides. Then, there's Smith Playground in Allston, which has a pump track. It's well known for being one of the best skateboarding spots in the city with various smaller bowls. Furthermore, it's quite colorful and also contains a roller hockey rink with a Bruins logo at the center. There are also options in Eastie, Jamaica Plain, North Cambridge, Somerville, and Dudley Square.

This is good to know if you're looking for a place to skate. Per the Boston code detailed on American Legal: "Unless otherwise permitted by City rule or regulation, it shall be unlawful for any person to ride or operate roller blades, roller skates, a skateboard, or stunt-type bicycle upon public property in the City of Boston."

Kick-turning back to four Boston skateboard shops you need to know, it's important to think about what your needs are before selecting a location to visit. Some have all the best shoes and flashiest attire. However, there are also spots to roll into to get your board tightened up. So, let's drop in.

Decorated in a lime green, treehouse-style, Orchard has an extensive footwear collection. They often have raffles for your chance to win a pair of rare kicks. From the freshest Nike SB's to animal-friendly canvas options. Orchard also has their own branding that many local riders love to sport. You can order online or visit them at North Street. OrchardShop.com

This south shore landmark has been in business for 23 years. They are one of the original 'Skateboard Only' retail shops in Massachusetts. Technical carries the highest quality trucks and wheels. You can buy your board and have it assembled in front of you ready to ride. They offer occasional summer and after school camp options at local parks and private lessons. Technical is all about supporting the skateboarding community. Side note - they also have a rad record store downstairs. TechnicalSkateShop

A full-service skate shop that offers boards, wheels, hardware, and a vibrant selection of skate clothing. Located in the historic district of downtown crossing, near the Park Street T stop and the Old South Meeting House. Grab an all-conditions coat, vintage clothing, and check out new colorful decks at this "shredquarters."  OneGig.com

You can skate, surf, or snowboard (weather permitting) after shopping with Thuro. While there are limited options in-store (though you can walk-in and they offer a wide range of custom pickup options) Thuro has you covered their online business. Here you can rent equipment and or grab accessories that like a GoPro to bring your rides to life. Thuro also services Longboards. ThuroShop.com