Mesquite City Lake Aquatic Center is a Fun, Frugal Water Park

These days summer fun doesn't often come cheaply. In many cities, to cool off a family has to choose between run-down municipal pools, their own pool or waterplay equipment, (which is often expensive or doesn't last more than a season) or spend up $20 - $40 per person at a crowded, often distant waterpark.

It's no surprise that municipal pools have been going downhill, since splurging on these large parks have become a summer tradition for many. It's created a cycle that's seen less money being directed towards cities themselves, which means a lower recreational budget, and so on. However, some cities, like Mesquite, Texas, saw the future of water recreation and have invested in facilities that the whole family will enjoy.

The city of Mesquite installed a small but well equipped water park at their scenic City Lake Park near downtown Mesquite. Just adjacent to the park, the Aquatic Center features slides, dancing water jets for the little ones, and a sprayground - a structure to for the kids to climb on a play with water jets and buckets. There is also an area deep and long enough for doing laps. While there is generous seating and shaded areas, it is always wise to get there early to claim a lounge chair in case of large parties. A private area for birthday parties is available for $60 and up plus a discounted admission per person. There is a grassy area as well in case you would rather work throw down a towel and work on your tan than get wet. The staff is well trained and attentive. The Aquatic Center's smaller size also provides a cozier, more secure feeling atmosphere. Many visitors are from Mesquite or nearby parts of Dallas and other suburbs, so for residents in those areas the park is a great way to meet new people.

Admission is reasonable at $4/person for ages 3-54, and $2 for ages over 54. There is discount admission after 5 PM of just $2 (giving 2-3 hours of swim time before close). For Mesquite residents, a $30.00/20 admission punchcard is available. That works out to just $1.50 per visit! The park is open Monday through Wednesday from 12pm - 8pm, and Thursday through Sunday 12pm - 7pm. It is located near downtown Mesquite, at 200 Parkview. This is just a few miles east of the 635/Military Parkway exit.

Concessions are sorely lacking however so you will have to plan ahead. On our last visit only vending machines were available. Fortunately coolers are allowed (no alchoholic beverages). But why be held prisoner to eating inside? That's one of the traps of the larger waterparks. City Lake Park is a fantastic place for a picnic before or after swimming. A smooth level path circles the lake and there are plenty of tables for grilling and level grass for the kids to run around on. Fishing is also allowed. A full day can be had by picnicking and grilling at the park, and it is only a short walk to the entrance of the Aquatic Center. The only con, besides the lack of concessions, is that the park does get crowded at times, so try to go early or avoid weekends, or drop in after 5.

All of this summer fun is cheap compared to other waterparks. Compare the cost for the family of four to visit the Aquatic Center, just $16 ($8 total after 5pm, $6 for residents with a punchcard), to the admission fee for just one person at nearby Hurricane Harbor - $25 - $32 + tax. While discounts are available and there is a larger range of activities, you then have to pay $15 to park! Crowds are also larger and the staff just cannot provide the same kind of attention. A mid-size alternative, Hawaiian Falls, with three locations in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, runs $10 - $17 + tax. Parking at Hawaiian Falls is free, although there is a $5 fee if you bring a cooler larger than 12x12X6. Your cooler cannot contain any cooked or prepared food either. They recommend only sandwiches and snack type foods, so forget any special frugal picnic traditions you would prepare. Hawaiian Falls does have the advantage of being in three convenient locations, with one in South Dallas, Garland, and one in Colleyville.

A savvy planner can get 5-6 family outings or more for the cost of visiting a larger park, and feel satisfaction from supporting the city of Mesquite. The Aquatic Center provides a great value and a sense of community in a scenic location. Any family within 30 miles should consider making City Lake and the Aquatic Center part of a frugal, low key outing.