Fairmont Pool

Fairmont pool was one of my least favorite pools, even though Lowell and South are smaller. An L-shaped pool like Borah, Fairmont goes from 3 to 6ft in depth and there are no diving boards. The only amenity is a basketball hoop. My perspective may have been somewhat skewed by the sidewalk construction happening outside and the less-than-helpful staff member I interacted with.This pool would be good for lap swimming. There are lap swim hours between 12 and 1 daily.

Fairmont does have the advantage of being next to Fairmont Park and a shave-ice hut, just like Borah. Lounge chairs are available free of charge for adults, and lap swims are available from 

Fairmont pool is located at 7929 Northview Street, south of the Ustick and Cole intersection. For hours, visit the City of Boise website here. For rates, click here.  

Borah Pool

 Borah pool is located in south Boise at 801 Aurora Dr. It has a medium sized L-shaped pool, with 2 diving boards. Most of the pool area is relatively shallow, varying from 2.5 ft at one corner to 4ft at the other, with the deepest water in the middle. This pool has enough depth for swimmers to do laps, though this is probably best done during the lap swim times.

There is a splash park area, similar to what many local parks have, off to the side of the main pool.

Lounge chairs are available free of charge for adult patrons. There are two large stands of bleachers, and a small grassy area next to the pool. There is absolutely no shade at Borah, so be prepared!

The pool is immediately adjacent Borah Park which has a large playground, as well as grassy fields. There is also a shave ice hut right outside the pool. This pool would enjoyable for adults or children, as long are prepared for the sun.  For rates, click here. For hours, click here.

South Pool

South pool, located at 921 S Shoshone St, is the mirror image of Lowell pool. Both of these pools have a distinctive Art Deco style that remind pool-goers of simpler times. The raised design is not stroller or handicapped friendly. Small locker rooms for men and women are located on the ground floor.

Simplicity is the name of the game at South pool, with an oval pool that ranges from 3 to 12 ft and one diving board. There is limited pool-side seating and deck area. There is a basketball hoop in the shallow end. Like Lowell, this pool is best suited to children over age 5 as they will be able to touch in the shallow end. All Boise pools have rules against floatation devices.

The staff are friendly and helpful, and the water is cold and refreshing. South pool is right next to South Junior High School. Parking is limited to street parking, as the pool doesn't have its own lot. South Pool is open M-Sat, 1:30 to 5:00 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. For admission prices, visit the Boise Parks and Recreation page here. Don't forget, August 24th is the last day Boise pools are open!