Believe it or not, there is an upside to having to stay in your un-air-conditioned apartment/ dorm room/house while taking classes/doing an internship/actually working this summer. It is called the pool and it’s tranquil waters, ice cold drinks, and suntanned bodies are calling your name. Well, actually it’s crowded waters, lukewarm beer, and sun burnt bodies are, but that’s okay, it’ll still be fun—I promise! You’ll be so happy to take a break from work and hang out with your friends that you won’t care. This summer, the pool is your oasis, a welcome respite from the stifling heat of your stuffy 6th floor room in the middle of July. Use this list as your summer guide to all of the best pools in EL.
First up, The Village at Chandler Crossings
See how much fun they’re having!
Perhaps most well known on the East Lansing pool scene is Chandler Crossings. On weekends, when a DJ plays songs poolside, students flock to the pool deck for a party at what one reviewer calls “the hottest swimming pool East Lansing has to offer”. The pool at Chandler Crossings is large and has plenty of deck space. Some lounge chairs are provided, but many students just opt to just bring a towel and lay out on that. Located about 10 minutes away from campus, this pool may not be the most convenient, but pool parties at Chandler are worth it!
The Pool at Capitol Villa Apartments
The newly renovated pool at Capitol Villa apartment complex feels a lot less East Lansing, Michigan and a lot more posh resort in Miami. Pretty landscaping, sleek chairs, and a spacious new sundeck make taking a dip in this pool feel almost like a vacation. Take advantage of this pool in the summer months while most residents are away and enjoy a peaceful afternoon soaking up the sun—don’t forget SPF though!
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Glenwood Apartments
The Glenwood pool is located just off the eastern edge of campus, so it’s close enough to walk to! Now, go find some friends who live there and convince them to take you to their pool. One plus, if you can’t tell from the picture, is that they have super comfy lounge chairs in cheery bright colors!
Abbott Place
Abbott Place has, arguably, the best of both worlds—a huge swimming pool and a sand volleyball court. Head here on a sunny summer afternoon and you’ll feel just like you’re on the beach in Mexico. Abbott Place calls it’s outdoor space “resort-style” for a reason!
E.L. Hannah Community Center Aquatic Center
Last but not least, if you’re just looking for somewhere you can swim around and be a kid again, look no further than the Hannah Community Center. This place has water slides, obstacle courses, diving boards, and a concession stand. So order that cherry slushy and reminisce about (or relive) summers past.