Over the long weekend my wife and I decided to take our daughter to check out some pools in our city: we chose Maple Grove Pool in Kerrisdale and the new Aquatic Centre at Hillcrest Park next to Nat Bailey Stadium. The Maple Grove pool is a large outdoor heated wading pool with a maximum depth of 3 1/2 feet. We liked this pool for the nostalgic feel (reminded us of the no-nonsense pools of our youth). Only $2 for adults, $1 for 6-18 yrs and free below 6 yrs. We also liked the many trees that surround the pool to retire from the sun. All in all a more homey feel to it and a great setting in a park.
Hillcrest Park is quite a contrast. This is where you'll find all the bells and whistles of your modern aquatic centre: a flowing river, wading pool (both indoor and out), water sprayers, plenty of floaties, etc. Slow, medium and fast swimming lanes for the swimmers and if you're into it, there are 1, 3 and 5 metre diving boards. Cost adult: $5.10 child: $2.54. This place was a lot of fun for the whole family but be prepared for the crowds and the outdoor area could have used some optional shade. Once the construction is complete, this Olympic Legacy facility will have a community centre, ice rink, curling club, library and preschool.