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July'25
Looking for the perfect spot to cool off this summer with the family? Essex County, NJ, is home to several family-friendly pools that provide fun, fitness, and a relaxing way to escape the summer heat. Whether you’re interested in lap swimming, toddler splash areas, or all-day lounging, there’s a local pool that fits the bill.
1. Maplewood Community Pool
Location: 187 Boyden Ave, Maplewood, NJ 07040
Date & Time:
Regular Pool hours:
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Monday to Friday: 12 pm to 8 pm
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Saturday & Sunday: 10 am to 8 pm
Commuter Swim:
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June 23-August 7, 2025
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Monday-Friday: 6 am to 7:30 am
Baby and Lap Swim
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July 1-August 7, 2025
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Tuesday-Thursday: 9am - 10:50am
More info: maplewoodcommunitypools.org
Why Visit:
This pool is a local favorite for early risers and young families alike. Maplewood Community Pool stands out with dedicated swim times for commuters and young children. It combines structured sessions with relaxed weekend vibes, making it ideal for families with a variety of swimming preferences.
2. Montclair Pools
Locations:
Essex Pool: 41 Chestnut St
- Phone: 973-783-9821
Mountainside Pool: Mountainside Park on Upper Mountain Ave
- Phone: 973-744-5444
Nishuane Pool: Nishuane Park at the corner of Cedar Ave and High St
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Phone: 973-746-0329
Date: June 27 - September 1, 2025
Time:
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Monday-Friday 12:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
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Weekends and Holidays 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
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Essex pool will close for the season on August 17, 2025
Pool fees:
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$250 Family (2 Adults and 2+ children or a single parent with 3+ children)
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$85 Adult
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$60 Child/Youth (starting age: 2 years old). Kids must be with an adult who is 18 years of age or older.
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$25 Senior (ages 62 and up)
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$85 Caregiver (must be purchased with a pool membership)
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Youth (ages 13-17) can attend the pools without an adult.
Daily Passes:
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Resident Adult: $15
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Resident Child/Senior: $10
More info: montclairnjusa.org
Why Visit:
With three different pool locations across town, Montclair residents enjoy variety and convenience. The pools are known for being clean and safe, and the resident-only policy helps keep the atmosphere calm and community-focused.
3. Ginny Duenkel Pool (West Orange)
Location: 60 1/2 Cherry Street West Orange, NJ 07052
Date and Time:
June 21, 2025, through September 1, 2025
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Monday through Thursday 12:00 Noon - 7:30 pm
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Fridays - 12:00 pm 8:00 pm
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Saturdays - 10:00 pm 8:00 pm
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Sundays - 11:00 pm 8:00 pm
More info: westorange.org
Why Visit:
This well-kept pool has long been a go-to summer hangout for West Orange families. With extended evening hours on Fridays, it’s perfect for an after-work or post-dinner swim. Ideal for families seeking comfort, space, and a peaceful swimming experience.
4. Glen Ridge Community Pool
Location: 35 Clark Street, Glen Ridge (located behind Starbucks and Bottle King that are located on Bloomfield Avenue)
Date and Time:
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Thursday, June 19th pool opens full time for members every day swim 10:00 AM-8:00 PM, NO GUESTS.
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Starting around August 15th due to cooler mornings and earlier sunsets the hours will be 11-7.
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Last week of August the hours will be 11-5 starting Monday, August 25 with no guests until next season.
Why Visit:
Hidden behind popular local landmarks, this members-only pool is a quiet retreat. It’s ideal for families seeking a community-oriented and less crowded place to unwind all summer long.
5. Ironbound Aquatic Center (Newark)
Location: Sharpe James/Kenneth A. Gibson Recreation & Aquatic Center 226 Rome Street, Newark, NJ 07105
Date and Time:
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Tuesday - Friday 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
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Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Phone: (973) 733- 3707
More info: www.newarknj.gov
Why Visit:
This facility offers a more structured swim environment perfect for those looking for fitness and family fun. It's especially good for local Newark residents looking for accessible swim options.
6. John F. Kennedy Recreation & Aquatic Center (Newark)
Location: John F. Kennedy Recreation & Aquatic Center 211 W. Kinney St. Newark, New Jersey 07103
Date and Time:
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Tuesday - Friday: 6:00 am-8:00 pm
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Saturday: 9:00 am-6:00 pm
Phone: (973) 733-5483
More info: newarknj.gov/card
Why Visit: The JFK Aquatic Center offers extended weekday hours, making it a strong choice for both early morning swimmers and families who want flexibility after work or school.
7. South Orange Community Pool
Location: Cameron Field complex, across from The Baird, 5 Mead Street
Date and Time:
Opening Day - July 4
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10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
In Season Hours
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Monday through Friday: 12:00-8:00 pm (7:30 closing beginning August 15th)
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Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 am-8:00 pm (7:30 closing beginning August 15th)
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Labor Day Weekend (Saturday, Sunday, Monday): 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Phone: (973) 755-3276
More info: southorange.org
Why Visit:
Located right next to The Baird, this pool is a summer staple in South Orange. Its festive opening on July 4 and large swimming area makes it a great destination for long weekends and holidays.
8. Westville Avenue Pool (West Caldwell)
Location: 293 Westville Ave, West Caldwell, NJ 07006
Date and Time:
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Mon-Fri: 11:30 am-7:45 pm
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Sat-Sun: 10 am-6:45 pm
Phone: +1 973-226-0432
More info: www.westcaldwell.com
Why Visit:
This family-friendly pool is a perfect neighborhood gathering place. With generous daily hours, it's a great place for kids to play and parents to relax.
9. Mervyn H.T. Haines Pool (Livingston)
Location: Wahler Rd, Livingston, NJ 07039
Date and Time: June 25- Labor Day
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Mon. through Fri.: 11:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
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Sat. and Sun.: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
More info: www.livingstonnj.org
Why Visit:
This well-maintained community pool offers plenty of space, a large swimming area, and a friendly vibe. It’s a popular hangout spot on hot summer weekends in Livingston.
10. Millburn Municipal Pool
Location: Gero Park 335 White Oak Ridge Rd, Short Hills, NJ 07041
Date and Time:
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Mon.- Fri. 12 Noon-8 PM
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Sat. & Sun. 11 AM-7 PM
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Holidays 10 AM - 6 PM
Phone: 973-376-3822
More info: twp.millburn.nj.us
Why Visit:
Tucked into Gero Park, this pool serves as both a cooling-off destination and a community hub. It’s a great choice for Millburn families and includes access to nearby recreational amenities.
Important Notes for Visitors
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Many pools require residency in a specific town or county to access facilities.
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Fees vary widely, with some pools offering family passes, individual memberships, and daily passes.
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Always check the official pool websites or contact the pool directly for the latest information on fees, membership requirements, and guest policies before planning your visit.
Plan and Make a Splash
Summer in Essex County, New Jersey, offers the perfect excuse to have fun with your family. From early-morning commuter swims to toddler-friendly splash zones, each pool has its charm and vibe. Before heading out, double-check each location website for residency requirements, fees, and guest policies. With so many excellent options in Essex County, your perfect summer swim is just around the corner. Whether you prefer a quiet community spot or a lively swimming club with activities, there's something for everyone.
So go ahead — find your favorite local pool, make some memories, and beat the heat the fun way this summer!
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