Review: Forest Park Aquatic Center in Noblesville, Indiana

Forest Park Aquatic Center in Noblesville, IN is a great family find. There is an Olympic sized 10 lane pool that includes a water slide, a separate diving pool with spring boards and platforms, an infant and toddlers pool with a small side and a splash pad area with water that pours, shoots and bubbles up to play in. The center also has a snack area and men's and women's bathrooms that include showers and dressing areas.

There are great big umbrellas that provide a ton of shade. Chairs and lounges are available at poolside and there seemed to be a decent amount of them.

On the day we visited, it was extremely hot. There are camps and day cares that bring busloads of children to the pool. This didn't seem to make the place overly busy. There are a number of lifeguards present that rotate throughout the day. They do pay attention as my daughter tried to go head first down the kiddie slide and was told feet first, but in a friendly manner. My two-year-old daughter who was timid at first, found her confidence and was standing and walking and even sitting in the water in shallow areas.

The pools were clean. Having a pool in our own backyard, I can attest to the fact that keeping bugs and small debris out of the pool is no easy feet. The snack area could have been cleaner but it had been used that day and had a few bits of trash and drips of ice cream. The showers, bathrooms and changing areas were all clean and tidy. The floor of course was wet but nothing appeared run down or out of order in the women's room.

The concession stand was busy. There always seemed to be a small line but they moved fast. The prices were very reasonable with bags of chips for 75 cents and drinks 1 dollar; hot dogs were also a dollar. Nothing seemed overprice and they also offered pretzels, candy, and ice cream. Of course, you can bring your own cooler in.
Another great feature I noticed while attending the center today was that they allow you to bring in toys. Many public pools only allow life guard approved flotation devices but I was happy to see boys playing with plastic boats, girls with Barbie's, some had the foam noodles and there were a few float rings. Our next visit we will have a few extra toys in tow.

The large Olympic sized pool seemed to have adult swim times about every 45 minutes. My guess was that it lasted for 10 to 15 minutes. It was announced over the loud speaker and everyone could easily hear the announcement.

It appears they are going to add a new feature, a climbing wall. Where you can climb like a regular rock wall but instead of having a bungee cord attached, you just fall into the water. Seems like a good addition to this family friendly place.

The Forest Park Aquatic Center had a very down home feel to the place. It was well staffed and well maintained. After our first visit, I can definitely say we will return before the summer is over.

Hours of Operation
Monday - Thursday: Noon - 7 PM
Friday, Saturday: Noon - 8 PM
Sunday: Noon - 6 PM

Entry fee is $5 for an all day pass and $3 after 5PM

Family Membership Fees
Family 2-4: $235.00
Family 5: $260.00
Family 6 or more: $285.00
Single: $120.00
Members' cards can be picked up on opening day.

Call 317.773.4649 for additional membership information.
The mailing address for the Friends of Central Pool is:
PO Box 10
Noblesville, IN 46061