• Vermont State Parks
• Button Bay State Park

1. Button Bay State Park

This sweet state park pool — equipped with a small waterslide and a gently graded shadow end for little ones — is conveniently located near attractions including the Rokeby Museum. Pool access included with $2-4 park admission; free for children under 4.

2. Elm Street Recreation Center

Surrounded by ball fields, a playground and picnic tables — and a short drive from the Statehouse — the Capital City's pool offers a relaxing respite from the summer sun. $4.50-12 admission; $21 per family.

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• Maple Street Pool

3. Maple Street Park and Pool

A slide and splash area keep the little ones cool while older kids rock out to music in the big pool. $5-7 admission; half-price after 6 p.m.

4. Middlebury Town Pool

Water toys beckon babies and toddlers to the wading pool. Big kids will enjoy doing cannonballs off the diving board. $2-4 admission.

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• Sand Hill Pool

5. Sand Hill Pool

Dual diving boards in the deep end distinguish this suburban oasis, which also includes a splash pad. $2-4 admission.

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• St. Albans City Pool

6. St. Albans City Pool

Friendly staff and fields for frolicking make this a pleasurable place to beat the heat. $3-8 admission.

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• Waterbury Community Pool

7. Waterbury Community Pool

Take a dip, then head to the Ben & Jerry's Factory Store for a scoop or two, and you're living the Americone Dream. $5 admission; $10 family day pass.