Photo: Sandy Schoville
Photo: Roseanne Silas
Photo: Sandy Schoville
West Allis-West Milwaukee Recreation Department
★4.5(146 reviews)$Community Center
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-14. Toddlers and preschoolers thrive in the swim lesson programs that build foundational skills, while elementary and middle school-aged kids enjoy open swim sessions with friends. The community pool setting is especially great for beginners still gaining confidence in the water.🧡 Saved by 60+ families
About
The West Allis-West Milwaukee Recreation Department operates a beloved public outdoor swimming pool that's a summer staple for local families. With dedicated family swim times, professional swim lessons for all skill levels, and a welcoming community atmosphere, it's the perfect place to cool off on hot Wisconsin days while building water confidence in a safe, supervised environment.
Highlights
- ✓Affordable swim lessons taught by certified instructors for all ages and abilities
- ✓Designated family swim times perfect for parents with multiple kids
- ✓Classic outdoor pool experience with a friendly, neighborhood feel
- ✓Safe, lifeguard-supervised swimming in a well-maintained facility
- ✓Great way to meet other local families and build summer traditions
Pro Tips
- 1.Call ahead or check their website for current pool hours and family swim times, as pool schedules typically differ from office hours listed
- 2.Arrive early during peak summer days (especially late June through early August) to secure a good spot and avoid the midday rush
- 3.Bring your own sunscreen, snacks, and water bottles to save money,reapply sunscreen frequently on kids between swims
- 4.Sign up for swim lessons early in the season as spots fill quickly, and consider morning sessions when kids are most focused
- 5.Pack water shoes and towels that are easy to identify, as items can get mixed up in the busy family changing areas
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings in June or late August for the most relaxed experience with smaller crowds. Mid-summer weekday afternoons get busiest, while early season offers cooler temperatures and more space to spread out.
What to Know
Pool admission fees are typically very affordable for residents, with non-resident rates slightly higher. Parking is available on-site, and families should bring their own snacks as concessions may be limited at this community facility.
Seasonal Notes
Open during summer months only, typically from early June through late August. Pool closes for the season on Labor Day weekend. Office hours listed are year-round for registration and program information, but pool operating hours vary,always confirm current swim times before visiting.
Nearby Eats
Stop by Kopp's Frozen Custard (just minutes away on S 76th Street) for their famous burgers and fresh frozen custard,a West Allis tradition after a swim day. For pizza, Zaffiro's on S 108th Street offers family-friendly dining with thin-crust pizza that's been a local favorite for decades.
More Activities Near West Allis
Playground
Nathan Hale High School
Free
Nathan Hale High School in West Allis opens its community playground and recreational facilities to local families, offering a great neighborhood spot for active play. With sports facilities, playground equipment, and plenty of open green space, it's a convenient option for burning energy close to home without the crowds of larger parks.
Adventure
West Honey Creek Parkway
Free
West Honey Creek Parkway offers families a peaceful escape into nature without leaving the city. This scenic trail system winds through West Allis's lovely green corridors, making it ideal for family bike rides, nature walks, and teaching kids about local wildlife and ecosystems. The paved pathways are stroller-friendly and perfect for beginning cyclists looking for a safe, traffic-free route.
Activity
Wisconsin State Fair Park
★4.6$$❤️154
Wisconsin State Fair Park is a beloved Milwaukee-area destination that transforms throughout the year, from the iconic 11-day Wisconsin State Fair each August with rides, animal exhibits, and endless cream puffs, to year-round family events like holiday markets, flea markets, and seasonal festivals. The sprawling 200-acre grounds offer plenty of space for kids to explore, with special events designed specifically for families happening most months of the year.
Library
West Allis Public Library
★4.5Free❤️18
The West Allis Public Library is a fantastic free resource for families, offering much more than just books. With extensive children's programming including regular story times, educational activities, and special family events throughout the year, it's a welcoming community hub where kids can explore, learn, and develop a love of reading in a safe, climate-controlled environment.