Here are a few tips to know before you go:
Pool –
1) Don’t forget your flip-flops. Although the facility was very clean, the crowds of happy swimmers make for tracked-in dirt on the locker room floors. Look for the family ‘cabanas’ to provide an easy way for parent and child to get dressed and ready together.
2) Shower on deck. The water pressure in the cabanas is light (to be generous). The deck showers were warm, strong, and using them actually helps protect your skin before taking the plunge.
3) Bring a standard-sized lock. Lockers are plentiful, but a design flaw won’t allow you to use small locks (such as is common at the YMCA). Bring a standard sized combo lock or buy one at the front desk for $4.50.
4) Swimmers who want to enjoy the big lighthouse slide must be at least 4 feet tall. Don’t try to sneak your kiddo under the line – the slide is fast and twisty. I’m game for an adventure, but even I found the slide a bit more than I had bargained for.
Rock Wall- (See our glamorous climbing pics above)
1) Be sure to wear your sneakers. Sandals or Crocs won’t work as you scale this cliff side. The Kroc Center does have some climbing shoes available, but better to be prepared on your own.
2) The line may look long – but it goes quick. Spend your time in line watching other climbers and learning from their technique. Adults and children as young as three can climb (just ask for a special harness kids under 5.) The routes go from easy to difficult (right to left). Kroc Center staff are there to answer questions, man the ropes, and cheer you on!
3) A seating area near the wall provides a great spot to watch the action and enjoy a snack. Bring your own or buy one at the small snack cart.