The top 10 outdoor swimming pools in Toronto

Outdoor swimming pools in Toronto will have you beating the heat without even turning on the AC. When the weather is too nice to stay indoors, but too hot to handle, these refreshing, chlorinated meccas are where to go for a cool down. If the waters of Lake Ontario are looking less than trustworthy, try one of these.

Here, in no particular order, are my picks for the top outdoor pools in Toronto.

See also:

The best swimming pools in Toronto
The top 15 indoor swimming pools in Toronto

Gus Ryder Sunnyside
Gus Ryder offers a 25 metre pool where you can float your worries away. It boasts a picturesque view of both the Toronto skyline and waterfront.Though you'll be in close proximity to Lake Ontario, you won't be at risk of any ecoli-related illnesses from the pool water.

Alex Duff Christie Pits
The thing that sets this park a part from the rest is its two-storey water slide. Though it doesn't rival any of the sky-high slides at Canada's Wonderland or Wild Water Kingdom, it is fun, especially for the younger crowd. If you're not into that, there's also a diving board, warm conversation pool, and shallow splash area.

Monarch Park
Monarch Park is the jack of all trades as far as public pool are concerned. It offers a two-storey water slide, a diving board, a separate wading area for children, and a raised area with seating for those who are not aquatically-inclined.

Alexandra Park
Alexandra Park is ideal you want to do more than just swim. This outdoor pool offers the perfect cool-down opportunity after indulging in a game of baseball or volleyball in the park. Expect to find it packed during leisure hours on warm days.

Rotary Peace Park (11th Street)
Rotary Peace Park is a great option if you live in the far west. This Etobicoke swimming hole hosts classes for every age and offers both lane and leisure swims. When you're finished you can always find a sunny spot in the park to dry off.

Donald D. Summerville Olympic Pools
The Olympic Pool draws crowds to the Beaches come summertime due to its nearness to the water. If you aren't brave enough to test the waters of Lake Ontario, this pool makes for a great alternative (and you can always sun bathe on the sands post-swim). For thrill seekers, it features both 5 and 10 metre diving boards.

High Park
The public pool at High Park offers both lane and leisure swims, so you can opt to work out or veg out, depending on your interests. Once you've gotten your fill of swimming, you can indulge in a nature walk or visit the animals at the high park zoo free of charge.

North Toronto Memorial Community Centre
In the more northern area of the GTA? No problem.The outdoor pool at the North Toronto Memorial Community Centre has plenty of space for you to cool down. If you're looking to strengthen your swimming skills, they also offer a number of classes for every age group.

Riverdale Park
Riverdale Park pool is the perfect place to cool down after a jog around the track or a picnic in the park. Take a dip in the water or, if you feel like making the most of the sunshine, lay out in the elevated seating area.

Greenwood Park
Once you're done taking advantage of one of the two baseball diamonds in Greenwood Park, head to the pool for a swim. This expansive outdoor swimming hole will do the trick to cool you down.

What did I miss? Add your favourite outdoor swimming pool to the comments

Photo of the Sunnyside pool by bentitotambara in the blogTO Flickr pool.

by Alice Prendergast via blogTO