Athletic-Minded Traveler

We were so awed by this facility, we forgot to take notes. No worries, a place like this leaves a lasting imprint for a long, long time. The Natatorium boasts two, 50-meter pools (1 competition and 1 instructional) and a diving well complete with various height platforms and boards. With 90 American and 11 world records set in these waters, it is no surprise that this pool is considered one of the world's fastest. Your base intervals should be a breeze in this water box, and if you need additional inspiration, imagine the stadium packed with 5,000 screaming fans!

During summers, the competition pool remains at a long course, 50-meter configuration. Throughout the rest of the year, count on two, 25-yard set-ups. The instructional pool usually remains at 33 meters year round, but at 88 degrees it is rather warm. If you have a camera crew in tow, they can observe and film via six underwater main pool viewing windows, just like an aquarium!

This place is all about the first-rate pools, so do not expect anything plush from the locker rooms. But at $10/day, we are not complaining. The "Nat" does offer a small fitness center, but the older machines and rusty weights are not worth your sweat equity especially given that NIFS is a close neighbor.

Although the pools are closed on weekends, lap swim times are available during the other 5 days of the week. Given this facility's caliber, we strongly suggest calling ahead to verify lane availability.