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Aquatics and Swimming Lessons

Cannonball! Swimming is a great way to promote a healthy and fit lifestyle. It’s also a fun way to stay cool in the summer with friends and family.

Welland has three public outdoor swimming pools for everyone to enjoy, free of charge, during open swim time. In addition, a wide range of high-quality and affordable instructional programs are available for those just learning to swim to anyone looking to harness their next level of skills both in swimming and fitness.

What you should know before arriving at the pool

The FST consists of the following three consecutive steps, which must be completed without touching the pool floor and only using the wall to push off:

  • Jump feet-first into shoulder-deep water.
  • Tread water vertically for 45 seconds, keeping your head above the surface.
  • Swim two widths of the pool using a recognizable front crawl stroke.

The water depth will be measured relative to the swimmer’s height.

Please note: Even if the swimmer completes all steps, the lifeguard may withhold passing if they observe signs of struggle or difficulty.

If you have any questions or concerns about the FST, please speak with one of the lifeguards.

Those with serious medical conditions should be accompanied by an individual knowledgeable of their condition and responsible for their direct supervision.

Hyperventilation/rapid breathing or extended breath holding prior to underwater swimming is unsafe behaviour and is not permitted.

Rules

  • Please be respectful of those around you and the facility.
  • Nudity is not permitted in common areas
  • Patrons are required to remain clothed unless in a private change cubicle or bathroom stall.
  • All lockers within the universal changeroom are day-use only.
  • Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited.
  • Ensure that all personal belongings are secure at all times.
  • The City of Welland is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items.
  • Please report any suspicious activities to a staff member immediately.

FAQs

Universal change room is a safe and accessible space designed for community members of all abilities, gender identities, and religions. Universal change rooms provide an option for those who have family and group change room needs. Universal change rooms include private change cubicles and private washroom stalls.
Universal change rooms with individual change cubicles provide many benefits to the community, including accessibility for people with reduced mobility and allowing people of all gender identities, parents, and caregivers to be together in the same space.
Patrons must remain fully clothed or in swimwear or athletic attire when in open spaces of the universal change room. Please be respectful of those around you while using public and shared spaces.
Undergarments (such as but not limited to boxers, briefs, bras or underwear) and any nudity is not permitted in shared spaces. Patrons must use private change cubicles to disrobe/undress and change their clothing.
Memorial Pool and Welland Community Centre’s Companion Changeroom.

We will evaluate your child’s swimming ability free of charge and recommend the appropriate level for swimming lesson registration. Please ask a Senior Lifeguard for more information.

Life jackets are allowed in our pools; however, children wearing life jackets must be within arms reach of an adult at all times.

We are committed to making our pools welcoming and accessible for everyone. Each facility offers features designed to support safe and comfortable access for individuals with mobility needs.

Therapy Pool (Welland Community Centre): Accessible by ramp, stairs, and personal lift. A pool access chair is also available and can be wheeled directly into the water with ease. (link to https://www.welland.ca/wwc/openTherapy.asp)

Memorial Pool: Features a beach entry design for gradual access, along with a pool access chair for added support.

Rosie Smith Memorial Pool & Maple Park Pool: Both pools are equipped with ramps to provide smooth and easy entry.

Our staff are happy to provide assistance as needed to ensure all swimmers can enjoy their time at the pool.

Swim schedule and programming

Please visit the Active Portal for more information on swimming lessons and other programs offered at our indoor therapy pool and outdoor pools.

Join us for free open swim at our outdoor pools! It's a great way to enjoy the water and relax in the fresh air. Check out our Active Calendar for available swim times and come splash around with us!

Take a lap during our swim sessions at the outdoor pools! Whether you're swimming for fitness or fun, it's a great way to get moving. Be sure to check our calendar for available times and enjoy the water!


City Pools

Capacity:
400 — Large Pool
120 — Small Pool

Capacity:
400 — Large Pool
120 — Small Pool

Capacity:
665 — pool

Capacity:
22 — Pool
5 — Spa

image of swimmers in a pool

Outdoor pools 2025 opening dates

See you all in June 2026

Stay posted for all swimming lessons, aquatics programming, open swim and lane swim dates and times.

Important

Please remember to regularly check the News & Alerts section located at the top of your screen for important updates regarding the outdoor pools. This section is our primary channel for communicating closures, maintenance, and heat alert schedules. Additionally, we will utilize our social media channels, Facebook and Instagram, to communicate any important information that may affect your experience.

Welland Public Pools Code of Conduct

  • Be respecful to all users, visitors, and staff
  • No alcohol or illicet drugs
  • Do not use abusive or foul language
  • Do not damage equipment, supplies, and facilities
  • Violence in any form is not tolerated

All users and visitors are expected to exhibit positive behaviour and adhere to the following rules for a safe and enjoyable environment


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