Summer temperatures are here around Richmond homes for sale and Petersburg homes for sale. The good news is that there are plenty of summer activities where you can cool off while still having fun in the sun. Enjoy these refreshing pools and swimming spots around the community that are recommended by our real estate agents.

• Battlefield Park Swim & Racquet Club - 3108 Homestead Dr., Petersburg, VA 23805
  The family that splashes together, stays together at Battlefield Park Swim & Racquet Club. With three separate outdoor pools, there's something for everyone. A large 50-meter pool accommodates general recreational use, while lap and competitive swimmers use the 25-meter pool. Finally, there's a shaded kiddie pool for the little ones. Lessons are available for ages 3-9, and water aerobics classes are held at 11:15 a.m. every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday through September 2. Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 7 p.m. Sunday. Membership options include single, double, and family.
  
  
• Blackwell Community Center - 300 E. 15th St., Richmond, VA 23224
  Located on Richmond's south side, Blackwell Community Center features all the activities you need for a summer full of fun. In addition to the outdoor pool, there's a football/soccer field, playground, basketball and tennis courts, and a softball field. On rainy days, take part in programs and classes in dance, arts & crafts, and other special interests. Pool hours are noon - 8 p.m. weekdays and noon - 7 p.m. weekends.
  
  
• Thornton YMCA Aquatic Center - 3201 Watts Ln., Richmond, VA 23223
  Thornton YMCA Aquatic Center, the organization's newest location, is a pool-only facility offering a number of activities. Group and private swim lessons are available for all ages, including a parent and child class for kids aged 6 months to 3 years. Pop-up promotions during group exercise classes give you a chance to win prizes while you get fit. The center is open 6 a.m. - noon and 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. weekdays, 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday. YMCA members residing in Henrico County swim for free on weekends.
  
  
• Pony Pasture - James River Park, 7200 Riverside Dr., Richmond, VA 23225 
  Pony Pasture may sound like a great spot for horseback riding, and once upon a time the meadows did serve as a grazing spot for horses and ponies owned by nearby residents. Today, as part of the James River Park System, it's actually one of the more popular places in RVA for swimming, tubing, snorkeling, and paddle sports. If you prefer, you can just lounge by the water, soaking up rays while you take in the views. Other activities in Pony Pasture include fishing, hiking and biking, and bird watching. Hours are sunrise to sunset daily.
  
  
• Short Pump Park - 3329 Pump Rd., Henrico, VA 23233
  A visit to Short Pump Park, just down the street from Henrico homes for sale, puts a smile on everyone's face. On a hot summer day, kids love nothing more than romping in the splash pad. There's also a football/soccer field, baseball/softball diamond, and a playground. Bring Fido along for some play time in the off-leash dog park. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch and include plenty of doggie treats. Short Pump Park is open seven days a week from dawn until dusk. Splash pad hours are 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Does your dream house in Richmond include a backyard pool? Contact us at Napier ERA and let us help you find the perfect home to fit your lifestyle.