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06/30/2025 4:21 pm

Image of Optimist Pool. Image shows the entire pool with water.

Optimist Pool

Updated: Jun 30, 2025

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Hours Lap Lane Availability Programs Pool Rules

Overview

Part of Optimist Park, Optimist Pool was renovated in 2009 by converting the pool enclosure from an air-supported bubble to a fabric tension structure. The old bathhouse has been replaced with a new, up-to-date facility including spacious locker rooms and a classroom. It hosts several large-scale swimming competitions during the year.

Learn more about the cost of admission and passes to the pool.

Features

  • Indoor Olympic, 50-meter by 25-yard lap pool
  • Outdoor wading pool
  • 12 feet deep pool with climbing wall
  • Lap and recreational swimming

Contact

 

919-996-2790

Ronnie Banks Facility Director
ronnie.banks@raleighnc.gov 

Austin Pearce Assistant Facility Director
austin.pearce@raleighnc.gov

Bryce Bass Assistant Facility Director
bryce.bass@raleighnc.gov 

Optimist Park

Aquatics

Address

Optimist Pool
5902 Whittier Dr
Raleigh, NC 27609

Subscribe

 

  1. Aquatics

Hours

  • Hours may vary due to staffing.
  • Please call before visiting for the most up-to-date hours.
Learn more about the cost of admission and passes to the pool.
 SunMonTuesWedThursFriSat
Adult Lap Swim
Long Course		No Long Course5:30 to 8:45 a.m.5:30 to 8:45 a.m.5:30 to 8:45 a.m.5:30 to 8:45 a.m.5:30 to 8:45 a.m.6 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Adult Lap Swim
Short Course		1 to 6 p.m.9 a.m. to
8 p.m.		9 a.m. to
8 p.m.		9 a.m. to
8 p.m.		9 a.m. to
8 p.m.		9 a.m. to
8 p.m.		1 to 6 p.m.
Recreational Swim1 to 6 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 6 p.m.
Wading Pool1 to 6 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 6 p.m.
Dive Pool
with AquaClimb Wall		1 to 6 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 5 p.m.12:30 to 6 p.m.

Closure/Modified Hours
July 4 - Open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. for Independence Day
Aug. 9 - Close at noon for ICSA Championship Swim Meet
Sept. 13 - Oct. 12 - Closed for Annual Fall Maintenance

Lap Lane Availability

Swimmer in lap pool with arm raised mid breastroke at Pullen Park

Lap lanes are available for exercise during certain times of the day. Contact 919-996-2790 for more information.

Lap swimming rules and etiquette.

Programs

Adult swimming lesson with instructor and two swimmers in pool

Optimist Pool offers a variety of programs including the city swim league, swim clinics, water exercise classes, American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim lessons, lifeguard training, and instructor-level classes. Browse programs and classes at Optimist Pool on RecLink.

Learn More about the Raleigh Aquatics Water Exercise Program.

Pool Rules

  • Children should not use the swimming pool without adult supervision.
  • Adults should not swim alone.
  • Pets are prohibited throughout the facility.
  • Glass containers are prohibited throughout the facility.
  • Make sure a lifeguard is on duty before entering the water.
  • Please wear proper swimming attire in the pool (see manager regarding acceptable clothing).
  • Diving is limited to areas of more than five feet of water depth.
  • Rough play in pool and on the deck area is prohibited.
  • Floating aids and some toys are not permitted in the pool (see manager for what is acceptable).
  • Face masks and goggles are permitted with non-breakable lenses when used properly.
  • Lap lanes are for adult use only. Please do not hang on the lane ropes.
  • Please walk. Running is prohibited on the deck.
  • Smoking and consuming food and beverages must be done in designated areas only.
  • To provide a family atmosphere, neither abusive/profane language nor excessive public displays of affection will be permitted.
  • Admission to the pool may be denied for any of the following reasons:
    • An individual is apparently unable to care for themselves or is intoxicated
    • Evidence of contagious disease, open sores, or wounds
    • Any condition jeopardizing the health and safety of the general public
  • Distracting the attention of a lifeguard is not allowed.