Make a Splash This Summer!

nigeledelshain
May 30
3 min read

LOOKING FOR THE perfect way to cool off, connect with neighbors and make lifelong memories? Say hello to Graydon Pool—Ridgewood’s beloved summertime oasis that’s been delighting residents for nearly a century!

A DROP OF HISTORY

Graydon Pool’s story begins with a generous gift. In 1926, Ridgewood resident Samuel Graydon donated the land that would soon become one of Ridgewood’s most iconic destinations. Graydon was among a growing number of wealthy families who moved to town in the late 1800s as a result of the railroad that provided easy access to New York City.

Construction started in 1927, enhancing a natural swimming hole as part of a nationwide push to create municipal parks and pools, promoting community interaction. When it officially opened in 1929, season passes were just 50 cents for adults and 25 cents for kids!

Through the years, Graydon has grown alongside the community. Major expansions in 1936 brought the office building, center island and fieldstone wall—constructed as part of the Federal Works Progress Administration, which created jobs for workers who were unemployed during the Great Depression.

Graydon’s last significant improvements included the installation of shade sails, the café patio, a terraced arbor in 1999 and an accessibility ramp in 2015. Recently, the Village replaced the ailing sycamore tree on Graydon’s island with another young sycamore sapling that appears to be thriving.

SAFE, CLEAN AND GOOSE-FREE!

Graydon is affectionately known as a “plake” (pool + lake), filled with three million gallons of crystal-clear, spring-fed water, tested regularly to comply with the latest U.S. and state standards. The spring-fed water is filtered and tested to meet all federal and state standards, and the sand is specially sourced to stay sparkling clear. Tyco Professional Animal Control keeps geese and other critters away using creative and humane methods— including trained dogs and netting— to maintain a clean, welcoming space for everyone. To further help keep Graydon pest-free, please don’t feed the birds!

Graydon offers a little slice of summer paradise, whether you’re digging your toes in the sand, enjoying a game of volleyball or cooling off under the shade sails. Hungry? Swing by the Water’s Edge Café for a bite while soaking up the sun.

MEMBERSHIP MADE EASY

Over 3,000 members join Graydon each summer, and it’s easy to see why! Memberships are available to both residents and non-residents. Residents receive a 10% discounted rate from April 1 to April 30, after which the following rates apply:

Resident Rates (after April 30):

Adults (16 to 61): $145
Children (2 to 15): $135
Seniors (62+): $35

Non-Resident Rates:

Adults (16+): $235
Children (2 to 15): $210

Not ready to commit? Ridgewood residents can snag a day pass for just $15 with proof of residency.

BEHIND THE SCENES: MEET THE TEAM

Graydon is powered by a passionate team of over 100 seasonal staff members—including lifeguards, swim instructors, maintenance teams and friendly badge staff. Many are local teens and college students enjoying a summer of purpose and sun.

Katie Frey, Recreation Supervisor, puts it this way. “I grew up around my town’s pool and made tons of memories: jumping off the diving board, swim lessons, pizza lunches and Chipwiches! Seeing today’s kids create those same memories is magical. A lot goes into making Graydon run, but watching families laugh and connect makes it all worth it.”

Director of Ridgewood Recreation, Nancy Bigos, states: “Graydon embodies a rite of passage for many residents and their families. It begins with young children splashing in the fenced-in kiddie area and building castles in the sand. Then, they learn to jump from one of the two platforms, encouraged by a parent or guardian waiting to catch them if needed. Time spent at Graydon helps kids make new friends while developing skills and endurance.

The deep-water test is filled with anticipation—and sometimes disappointment—since the lifeguards are strict on safety, but eventually, it leads to success, granting the honor of jumping off the diving boards. We hope some of those splashers, jumpers and divers will return as lifeguards!”

So what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen, rally the crew, and join the tradition. Graydon Pool is more than a destination—it’s a summer state of mind!

PROGRAMS, PLAY AND PURE FUN

Graydon is jam-packed with programming that makes every visit special:

Storytime on the Beach (Thursdays at 3:30 p.m.): Storytelling and crafts with community guests
SUP & SUP Yoga: Try stand-up paddleboarding or yoga on the water—fun for both kids and adults.
Swim Team: Competitive fun for swimmers ages 8 and up
Swim Lessons: From parent-toddler classes to K-8 programs, there’s a lesson for every level.
Special Events: Don’t miss the Dog Days of Summer hot dog races and the ever-popular Movie Night on the Beach.