When will Sioux Falls outdoor pools close? City announces schedule.
Closures will happen earlier in 2026 after mayor announced budget cuts
Time is running out if you want to hit the outdoor pool for the summer.
The City of Sioux Falls announced its pool closure schedule and reduced hours on Monday with the first facilities closing Aug. 10 and the last pools closing Aug. 31. Splash pads will be open on select days until Sept. 21.
In 2026, pool closures will happen earlier in the summer. Mayor Paul TenHaken announced budget cuts in July that include closing pools down after the first weekend in August because of a drop in attendance at that time.
Sioux Falls uses a staggered approach to closing the facilities. Here is the schedule:
Closing Sunday, August 10: Frank Olson Pool and Terrace Park Family Aquatic Center
Closing Sunday, August 24: Drake Springs Family Aquatic Center
Closing Sunday, August 31: Kuehn Pool, Laurel Oak Family Aquatic Center
Closing Sunday, September 21: Pioneer Spray Park, Hayward Park Splash Pad, and the T. Denny Sanford Splash Pad at Jacobson Plaza
Beginning Monday, August 11, the following facilities will reduce their hours and be open weekends only on Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 8 p.m.:
Kuehn Pool
Drake Springs Family Aquatic Center
Laurel Oak Family Aquatic Center
Beginning Monday, August 18, the following facilities will reduce their hours and be open weekends only on Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 8 p.m.:
Pioneer Spray Park
Hayward Park Splash Pad
To close the season, two locations will host the annual Swimming Gone to the Dogs event this year. Dog owners are welcome to bring one or two dogs to swim. No registration is required. Dogs must follow off-leash rules and have updated shots.
Tuesday, August 12, 5:30 to 7 p.m., at Terrace Park Family Aquatic Center
Wednesday, September 3, 5:30 to 7 p.m., at Laurel Oak Family Aquatic Center
I see the final pool closings are in areas of higher income earners. Is this by design? If the City is really serious about budgeting I believe a look at all funds gifted to non governmental entities is required. By gifting funds to outside groups the City is forcing taxpayers to support efforts they may not agree with. If such outside groups are truly worthy of existence the public will support them. If not they will either cut back their spending or shut down.