The Melvin Ford Aquatic Center in Memorial Park opens for the summer season on Saturday, May 23, just in time for Memorial Weekend.
For Bentonville families looking to beat the heat, the seasonal opening marks the return of the city’s main public pool facility. Located at Memorial Park on Southeast J Street, the aquatic center has been a summer staple for years, offering swimming opportunities for kids and adults alike.
Memorial Park itself is one of Bentonville’s oldest and most beloved green spaces, featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and the popular splash pad alongside the pool. Families with younger children often combine a morning swim with an afternoon at the playground or a packed lunch at one of the park’s many shaded tables.
The timing of the opening — coinciding with the long Memorial Day weekend — gives parents a ready-made option for keeping kids entertained during a holiday that often means three days of wondering what to do around the house.
Bentonville’s Parks and Recreation department operates the facility, and residents can typically expect seasonal passes and daily admission options similar to past years. Those interested in swimming lessons or other programming should check with the city’s recreation office as the season gets underway.
The aquatic center typically runs through Labor Day, giving families roughly three and a half months of weekend and weekday access. It’s one of the few public pool options inside Bentonville city limits, making it a go-to for families who don’t want to drive across town or pay membership fees at private clubs.
Memorial Park sits just off Southeast J Street, with ample parking available. Families are encouraged to bring their own towels, sunscreen, and plenty of water — the concession stand operates during peak hours, but having snacks on hand helps with kids who want to stay and play.
If you’re planning a first visit this summer, arriving early on weekend mornings tends to mean shorter lines at the entrance and more room in the lap lanes. The facility draws a mix of families with young children, lap swimmers, and teens hanging out in the shallower end, so there’s space for everyone — you just have to find your corner.
Source: Bentonville City News
