Buffaloe Road Aquatic Center

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     I've only been to one other indoor swimming facility in Raleigh (Pullen Aquatic) but Buffaloe Rd. is by far the nicer and probably the newest.

     I took my 1 year-old son after I dropped his brother off at preschool. At 10am when the place opened we walked right in and paid our admission ($3 child, $7 adult for Raleigh residents) and headed for the dressing area. There are two really nice family changing rooms with fold-down tables, a toilet, sink, and shower. Then we headed for the pool.

     There's a lap pool but we were bound for the kiddie pool. The ramp into the kiddie pool allows the littlest ones to frolic in only 6 inches of water and it reaches a maximum depth of 1 foot 6 inches. There are plenty of sprinklers, sprayers, and showers in the kiddie area. A small water slide provides even more fun. The staff also puts out a generous supply of float toys, cups, balls, etc. for the little ones. We spent most of our time in this area.

    Buffaloe also has:

•  water basketball goal
•  3 story water slide
•  lazy river
• birthday party area with tables

    Life vests are available even for tots as young as mine. We made use of one and I took him through the lazy river a couple of times. The water in the kiddie pool is cooler than the other pool so it was nice to take a warm diversion through the adult area.

    We had a great time but the large digital clock on the wall told us it was time to go pick up my preschooler. I can't wait to go back.

view of the lazy river from the water slide (photo courtesy of  City of Raleigh)