Summer Fun On The Cheap: (Mini) Pool Party!

It’s 90 degrees out and you’re ready for a cool dip in the pool... except you don’t have one. No worries; you can have an all-out pool party for less than $30.

Largo has two pools, one on Highland Avenue (the Highland Aquatic Center) and one on Vonn Road (the Southwest Pool).

The Highland Aquatic Center has a corkscrew slide and water volleyball, making it an ideal choice for pool fun. Largo residents pay $5 per two hours ($10 for a four hour party). One down side: you can’t bring in outside food or drink, so you’ll have to get everything from the Splashes Snack Bar.

If you’d rather bring your own snacks and don’t mind foregoing play area, head to the Southwest Pool. They have a 30-foot-tall inflatable slide. You’ll pay $2.50 for the day, although through August 19 the pool offers open swim Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

If you’re bringing kids, stop by any Dollar Store for pool toys ($5) and a bag of chips or box of crackers ($1). A quick visit to and you’ll be able to stock up on juicy fruit to keep you hydrated ($5). (Southwest pool only for those last two!)

At either pool, grab a few deck chairs, a table with an umbrella, and you’re ready for an afternoon by the pool.

Also, try some of these swimming pool games for kids (although some are pretty fun for adults, too!) Just clear it with the lifeguard on duty to keep it safe and respectful.

Don’t forget your sunscreen, towel, water, and camera!

Total cost? $15 at the Highland Pool (plus snacks from the snack bar) or $13.50 at the Southwest Pool.