Categorized as a swimming pool, this venue also features a playground and diving.
Specific pool temperatures for Portage Park Pool (Outdoor) are typically not publicly listed as they are usually unheated and fluctuate naturally with the ambient weather conditions, providing a refreshing experience for swimmers during the summer season.
What are people saying (AI review summary)? The reviews for the pool present a mixed but predominantly negative picture. Several patrons reported highly negative experiences with staff, describing them as rude, disrespectful, and unprofessional, with specific incidents highlighting power trips among younger employees. One review detailed significant operational changes, including capacity restrictions (100 for main, 30 for baby pool), hourly breaks requiring re-queuing, and the closure of the diving pool and adult sunbathing deck due to COVID-19, though the pool remains free. There is conflicting information regarding public access; one user claimed it's only for members or summer camp kids, while another asserted it is a public pool with open swim almost daily. Positive feedback mentioned the pool's large size and the availability of an adult-only section.
Reviews
All staff that worked 07/14/25 was rude and disrespectful. I understand that rules need to be enforced and followed. But when you give authority to 16-18 year olds they start to have a power trip. They’re literally looking and picking for an argument. Even asking a simple question they have an attitude following there answer. I do not recommend this pool to anyone.
I've been there twice this season and a lot has changed. Due to Covid they are restricting capacity. 100 people are allowed in the main pool and 30 people are allowed in the baby pool. The diving pool has water in it but it hasn't been open on either of my visits. They call a rest break every hour and everyone must get out and get in line again if they want to keep on swimming. There is always a long line. It's still free and you don't need to show an ID. The 18+ sunbathing deck is closed off and all lounge chairs have been removed. Lounging is strongly discouraged in order to allow more patrons into the pool. Bags are allowed and they aren't spraying you down with a hose when you enter like they did a few years ago. They have lockers on site so bring a lock if you are concerned about your valuables.
There was a disrespectful girl working named Natalie .. she was very rude. Didn't know her job and was not professional at all what so ever. I was there with my kids and I'm guessing she was bored because when I put my phone away she looks at her watch an says it ends at 5 and laughs . most rude an disrespectful encounter I had ever had here.. I been going to portage Park pool since I was a kid so that is 13+ years and never have I ever had an encounter like this before. Really disappointing
This pool is not open to the public. It would be really nice if the park district could serve their local community especially during a dangerous heat wave. You can pay for a membership and swim laps for 1 hour otherwise this is for their summer camp kids only.
Large pool. Love that there is an adult side of the pool sectioned off. It is a PUBLIC pool inspite of other reviewers said. There is open swim almost everyday for everyone
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 5:45 PM |
|---|---|
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 5:45 PM |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Friday | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
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