McMurtrey Aquatic Center
Bakersfield's buzzing public pool, featuring updated slides, family fun nights, and dedicated lap lanes for fitness.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Affordable evening fun
McMurtrey Aquatic Center
Best Time
Affordable evening fun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bakersfield's buzzing public pool, featuring updated slides, family fun nights, and dedicated lap lanes for fitness.
"This is the best pool in Bakersfield, especially if you have kids!"
Confirm Hours Before You Go
Online hours can be inaccurate; call ahead or check social media to avoid disappointment.
Bring Your Own Chair
Tables are in demand; bring a camping chair for shade and comfort. :chair:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Updated Water Slides
Main Pool Area
Enjoy thrilling rides on recently updated slides, suitable for all ages with a 300 lb weight limit.
Family Fun Nights
Entire Facility
Affordable evening events with music and swimming, perfect for a budget-friendly family outing.
Dedicated Kids' Area
Shallow End
A safe and engaging zone for younger children to splash and play.
Lap Swimming Lanes
Designated Lanes
Plenty of lanes available for serious swimmers looking to get their miles in.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Operating Hours
Family Fun Night Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Hours Before You Go
Online hours can be inaccurate; call ahead or check social media to avoid disappointment.
Bring Your Own Chair
Tables are in demand; bring a camping chair for shade and comfort. :chair:
Family Fun Night Deal
Only $5 per person for evening fun, a great value for families. :moneybag:
Snack Bar Prices
Concession stand prices are comparable to other similar venues. :pizza:
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Hours Before You Go
Online hours can be inaccurate; call ahead or check social media to avoid disappointment.
Bring Your Own Chair
Tables are in demand; bring a camping chair for shade and comfort. :chair:
Family Fun Night Deal
Only $5 per person for evening fun, a great value for families. :moneybag:
Snack Bar Prices
Concession stand prices are comparable to other similar venues. :pizza:
Swimsuit Required
Everyone needs a swimsuit to enter the pool area. :swimsuit:
Hydration Station
Bring water bottles; refills are allowed. :water_wave:
Special Needs Swims
Look out for 'Sensory Friendly Swim Days' for a more tailored experience. :autism:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise McMurtrey Aquatic Center for its family-friendly atmosphere, updated slides, and affordable 'Family Fun Nights.' The facility is noted for being clean and safe, with attentive lifeguards. However, some guests have experienced frustration with inconsistent operating hours and occasional limitations on recreational swimming activities.
"This place lists that it's open on Saturdays and I did see lifeguards coming in and out. So I asked if they open at 1pm? since it was already 1:05pm. They said no they're closed today, and open on Monday but their is no longer any recreational swimming such as riding the slides. They're only open for swimming lanes, back and forth swimming. Why not list that all recreational activities are canceled? They disappointed me and my daughter."
Leonah's Legacy
"I've been bringing my kids here ever since they opened. Every year we've never had any problems and this year has been no different. Out of all the Bakersfield pools I've been to this one is the best mainly if you have kids. They also updated their slides this year which is a benefit to everyone who uses them. Lifeguards are generally nice with the exception of one occassionally ( everyone has grumpy days). I find the prices at the snack bar decent to comparable to other places like it. Children 2 and under are free. Individuals are $4 each or they offer a deal for a family of 4 which is a couple of dollars cheaper. My kids had started coming here when they were pretty young and now they are teenagers and they still love it. The weight limit on the slide is 300 lb which allows even the plus-size patrons such as myself to have a good time sliding down into the water. I recommend bringing a camping chair that you can sit on because the tables are in demand and if you can't stop lawn you can set up your chairs in an area along the fence under some of the shade trees. They accept cash and credit cards to get in and at the food court. I do wish they would open at 12 instead of one at least on some days."
Shannon Wilson
"My family and I love this place! Clean, fun and safe. Lockers, showers, and food. There's a cool area for the little ones and awesome slides for the older. I don't mind paying a little more for all the amenities they provide 😁"
Gi Gglez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McMurtrey Aquatic Center is located at 1325 Q St. in Bakersfield. It's accessible by car, and parking is generally available. Public transportation options may also serve the area, though specific routes would need to be checked with local transit authorities.
Yes, parking is typically available at the aquatic center. During popular events like Family Fun Nights, it can get busy, so arriving early is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is typically $4 per person. Family passes for four are often available for a slightly reduced price, around $13. Children 2 and under are usually free. Special events like Family Fun Nights are $5 per person.
Recreational swimming, including slides, is sometimes limited or canceled. It's crucial to confirm current offerings, as some visitors have reported only lane swimming being available on certain days.
Yes, tickets can be purchased at the entrance. They accept both cash and credit cards for admission and at the food court.
Operating hours can vary and have been reported as inconsistent with online listings. While some sources suggest opening at 1 PM, others indicate 10 AM on certain days. It's best to verify directly with the center or their social media for the most accurate information. +1
For general admission, advance booking is usually not required. However, for special events like 'Sensory Friendly Swim Days,' registration can sell out quickly, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The center offers lockers, showers, a concession stand with snacks, and designated areas for younger children. They also have updated water slides for added fun.
Absolutely! It's highly recommended for families, with a dedicated kids' area and slides that appeal to various age groups. Lifeguards are generally attentive.
Yes, lap swimming lanes are available, allowing for various strokes including butterfly. Some dedicated swimmers use the center to train and achieve mileage goals.
Yes, lifeguards are present to ensure safety. While generally good, like any staff, they can have occasional off days.
The weight limit for the water slides is 300 lbs, accommodating a wide range of visitors.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
The concession stand offers snacks like nachos, chips, and pizza. You can also bring in fresh fruit and water bottles.
Yes, you are allowed to bring in fresh fruit and water bottles. However, for other meals, the concession stand is available.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of others' privacy. During special events or swim meets, capturing moments is common.
Capture action shots on the water slides, family fun during evening events, or dedicated swimmers in action. The vibrant atmosphere during Family Fun Nights offers great candid photo opportunities. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 Remember to bring your own chairs for comfort, as tables can be scarce. Lifeguards are present to ensure safety, and the overall environment is described as clean and fun. 💰 Budget Travelers
+2 You can also bring your own water bottles and some fruit, saving on concession costs. 🏊♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
+1 You can log serious mileage here, with many locals participating in distance challenges. The center also hosts swim meets, indicating a strong connection to the local swimming community. It's a reliable place to get in your daily or weekly swim routine.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Making the Most of Family Fun Nights
+3 The atmosphere is usually lively with music, making it a great spot for kids to burn off energy. Due to their popularity, arriving early is advised to secure a good spot, especially if you plan to bring your own seating. These events are a fantastic way to experience the pool's amenities, including the updated water slides, without the peak daytime crowds. It's a community-focused initiative that brings residents together for a shared, enjoyable experience. Keep an eye on their social media for exact dates and times, as they often coincide with the end of summer vacation or special occasions.
+1Lap Swimming and Fitness
One individual even documented swimming 300 miles, focusing on improving their butterfly stroke. The availability of multiple lanes means that even during busier periods, serious swimmers can often find space to complete their workouts. The center is a popular spot for local swim teams as well, hosting meets and practices.
Whether you're training for a triathlon or simply enjoy a consistent swim, the aquatic center offers a reliable venue for your aquatic fitness goals.Community Inclusivity and Special Events
These events are highly valued and tend to sell out quickly, highlighting the need for prompt registration. The center's staff and lifeguards are commended for their efforts in making these days special. Beyond specific sensory-friendly events, the general atmosphere is often described as clean, fun, and safe, making it a welcoming place for all families.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit