Summer birthday parties in Houston are tough — until you add water. These pools, water parks, and aquatic centers in Houston will ensure your guests have a great time and stay cool. All of these birthday party options have fees associated with them, but we also have recommendations for some of the city's best FREE swimming pools where you can call the city of Houston for reservation details. There are also some great pools around Houston for indoor pool parties. And for more ideas on where and how to throw the best birthday party in and around Houston, check out our Houston party guide.

While DC and its surrounding suburbs are teeming with pricey community swimming pools, you don't need to reach into your wallet to make a splash with your family this summer. The city has plenty of public swimming pools, both indoors and outdoors, that are completely free for DC residents (and super cheap for non-residents). All you need to do is show proof of residency for some wet and wild fun that's free of charge.

So grab the swim gear and head to one of these 12 free public swimming pools in DC. For more water fun this summer, check out our lists of swimming lakes, splash pads and sprinkler parks, outdoor water parks, and parks with beaches near DC. After all, there's no better way to beat the heat than by having some fun in the water.

Lazy rivers offer a tranquil and leisurely escape from the hustle and bustle of busy Orlando water parks and attractions. Orlando lazy rivers meander through lush tropical landscapes, inviting families to unwind on inflatable tubes as gentle currents carry them along. Whether you’re visiting an outdoor water park in Orlando or looking for awesome Orlando hotels with lazy rivers, these idyllic retreats promise a refreshing experience for guests of all ages.

A swimming party is the ultimate perk of being a summer birthday kid. For the parents, these outdoor pool and water park birthday party rentals means there’s no mess or chaos at your home and no need to hire additional entertainment. The kids get 2 hours of private pool play with their closest friends and family.

In addition to the pools on this list, many of the splash pads featured in this guide also offer private rentals for the younger kiddos.

For more summer fun, check out our guides for the Best Outdoor Water Parks near Chicago and the Best Outdoor Pools in Chicago. And don't forget to check out our Kids' Birthday Party Places in Chicago Guide for more ideas.

Atlanta summers demand cooling swimming pools and lots of water fun! Free swimming pools offer great ways for children to get exercise, play, and stay off the devices...and who doesn't want to save a few dollars this summer?! Take a look at the best, free swimming pools in Atlanta. Pack the sunscreen, goggles, and snacks and get ready to dive into the list!

The Department of Parks and Recreation’s outdoor pools, which include more than 60 pools around Philadelphia, offer a combination of open swim, family swim, lessons, and activities. There’s bound to be a wet and wild adventure not too far from home. So pack the towels and sunscreen in a bag, and head out for a dip.

Looking for more water fun this summer? We've got plenty! Check out some of the Best Water Parks Near Philly, or splash around at one of the areas Splash Pads and Water Playgrounds. If you'd like a more relaxing day on the water, you'll love these Swimming Lakes Near Philly.

Looking for the best swimming pools in Westchester and the Hudson Valley? Here are our picks to add to your list.

Nothing says summer like a day at the pool, and there's no shortage of spots in Westchester and the lower Hudson Valley to take a dip. Many have concession stands and places to picnic, as well as playgrounds, hiking trails, mini golf, and other activities worthy of a summer day trip. We've rounded up a baker's dozen of our favorite family-friendly pools in the region. Some of these—particularly the Westchester pools—require county residency, so take note before heading out.

For more summer fun, be sure to check out our Ultimate Westchester and Hudson Valley Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

A pool party is the epitome of a summer birthday party for a kid in Los Angeles. 

The sun is out, summer is here, and it's time for (pool) party! If you don't have a pool at home, an HOA pool, or (let's be honest) friends and family with pools, then check out these cool pool party spots all around the city that welcome you, your kids, and your kids' friends to take the birthday party plunge. 

For more birthday ideas, here are the perfect spots for a baby's first birthday in Los Angeles, the best places for a teen birthday in Los Angeles, and even more in our Birthday Party Ideas Guide for Los Angeles Kids.