Giant waterslide? Check. Lazy river? Check. Spray area? Check. The only thing the new Snohomish Aquatic Center is missing is a FlowRider surf machine. Oh wait. They have that too! With our rainy winters (and springs and falls), we know Seattle parents are always on the lookout for the newest indoor attractions to keep their little ones from bouncing off the walls, the couch, and their nerves. Look no further, Seattle parents. The new Snohomish Aquatic Center has you covered—jam-packed full of awesome activities to wear out every kiddo no matter what their age or swimming ability.
Recreation Pool
The recreation pool has all features you’d expect of an indoor pool, including an open area for the kiddos to play and a lap area for adults. There are even a couple of basketball hoops for a quick pick-up game. But unlike most standard pools, the Snohomish Aquatic Center is a bit reminiscent of a fancy hotel, with its own lazy river just waiting for you to jump on an inner tube and take a relaxing ride.
And you know that traumatizing pool experience where you’re inching into the freezing cold water, trying to get up the guts to just jump in and (hopefully) warm up? Not a problem here. The water is kept at an amazing 84-86 degrees! Not only is it heaven getting in, but it feels so nice you may never want to get out. Still looking for something a bit warmer? The warm water pool is even toastier at 102 degrees.
Spray-Play Area
If your little ones are missing their trips to the outdoor spray pads, this indoor spray-play area will more than fit the bill. Complete with the bubblers and tipping buckets kids love, this awesome play area even has a slide that will have the Littles squealing with joy as they splash down into a few inches of water. And with a zero depth entry, even your tiniest water bugs will be able to toddle in and play with ease.
Splashtacular & FlowRider
Older kiddos will jump at the chance to fly down Splashtacular, the giant corkscrew water slide, spiraling over 150 feet outside and making an awesome splash back into the recreation pool. With the FlowRider surf simulator, you don’t need to head to Hawaii to learn how to catch a wave. The only one of its kind in the area, the FlowRider gives kids an exciting challenge (and a good workout!) as they try to master the boogie board or even stand-up surf. Psst! Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to ride the Splashtacular, and 42 inches to boogie board on the FlowRider.
Time to Refuel
If you or the mini’s are in need of a quick bite to keep your tummies from growling, the café has a good selection of snacks all around $3 or under. With lighter kid-friendly options like fresh fruit and string cheese, health conscious parents won’t have any trouble finding a nutritious snack. You will also find bagels and hot dogs on the menu for those with bigger appetites as well as a variety of coffees, teas and other drinks.
Good to Know:
1. There are no towels for guests to use so make sure to pack plenty in your bag before you head out the door.
2. Along with the standard men’s and women’s locker rooms, there are separate family changing areas. If the minis are getting a little older and no longer comfortable in the “opposite” locker room, there are options for dads and daughters and moms and sons.
3. Lockers are provided to store your clothes, purses and diaper bags while you play…just remember to bring your own lock. If you forget, locks are available for purchase at the front desk.
4. The Aquatic Center has life jackets available free of charge, along with tubes and other water toys. Outside toys, water wings, and other flotation devices are not allowed in the pool so save yourself the hassle and leave them at home.
5. The weekends can get really busy. Plan on arriving at least 30 minutes before the start of the swim session you want to attend. Check the pool schedule before you go.
6. If you’re looking for a place to throw your kiddo’s next birthday bash, the Aquatic Center offers a variety of party packages on Saturdays and Sundays. Packages start at $225 and include pizza and drinks, pool time, and time in the party room.
Snohomish Aquatic Center
516 Maple Ave.
Snohomish, Wa 98290
360-568-8030
Online: snohomishaquatic.com or on Facebook
Admission:
Family: $17
Seniors: $4.50
Adults: $5.50
Youth (7-18): $5
Kids (2-6): $4.50
Under 2: Free
(City of Snohomish residents are eligible for a 20% discount on annual and 3-month passes)
Hours:
Monday-Friday: 5:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m.-6 p.m
Sunday: 12 p.m.-6 p.m.
The Snohomish Aquatic Center offers various programs and activities including swim lessons, exercise programs, swim teams, and of course open swim times. Be sure to check the website for the most up-to-date schedules.
Do you plan on visiting the Snohomish Aquatic Center? Let us know about your experiences in a comment below.
-Angela Alanis
Photo Credit: The Snohomish Aquatic Center website
