New Water Park at Ida Lee

Have you heard? There's a new outdoor water park open on Ida Lee grounds in Leesburg. It's name, the A.V. Symington Aquatic Park, is in honor of the late philanthropist who donated $5million for the project. While admirable, I doubt that will ever be the common name, because it is so long. Most people are referring it to the Ida Lee water park.

This opening is particularly significant because of the ugly history with the last public outdoor pool in Leesburg. Decades ago, there was an outdoor pool, and when the Town was ordered to racially integrate; the town opted instead to fill in, and close the pool. It's a sad and shameful part of our history. But, it is all the more reason to celebrate the progress made in this town and in the world, since that time.

And, celebrate, we are! I am happy to report I observed people from many nationalities and races, all equally enjoying the pool, and with nary a thought to the past. I wondered if anyone there recognized the historical significance. When I looked around, all I saw was a community, playing and laughing and enjoying each other and the surroundings, together.

The park really does have a little something for everyone. No matter what type of water activities you like, I am certain you'll find something to catch your fancy.

There's a great "beach area" for the little ones. Although not a wave pool, the gradual slope allows for use by people of all sizes, and there are fountains along the edge enticing littles ones to play with the water.

There's a roped section of 10 to 12 inch depth, perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. They'll enjoy climbing on the whale, and sliding down the size appropriate water slides.

There are 7 slides throughout the park, and they vary in range from "baby slides" to significant body flumes and slides, including a couple reserved for people 6 years or older, and at least 48 inches tall.

There are lap lanes, and plenty of open swim area. There's a floating snake that the older kids flock to. They'll also find floating lilly pads to assist them with walking on the water. It looked like great fun, and I think next time I will try it.

There is plenty of seating, including places for the sun worshippers; and there are plenty of shaded places to sit (in the water or out) for those of us with fairer skin.

If you're chasing little ones like I was, you better put on double the sunscreen! As a red head, who hasn't been in the sun much this year, I definately look different today than before my visit. I used to be white with alburn hair. Now I am hot pink with strawberry blonde hair.

My personal favorite feature at the park is the 600 foot lazy river. Given the chance, I could lay there all day if they'd take those silly "dumping" features away - those are the features that poor water on you just as you are about to drift off to sleep. Perhaps keeping you awake is the point.

Compared to similar regional water parks, this one is a true value. Town residents get a little discount on passes, and more importantly, they get in an hour early to reserve their seats, a luxury I enjoyed greatly. On the day of our visit there were seats available throughout the day; and I was pleasantly surprised that it was not busier.

There's a concession stand offerring affordable lunch and snack options, although our family brought a picnic lunch for our trip. You can bring in your own food, just nothing from a restaurant.

Not only does the water park make for great family time, but the lifeguards call an adult only swim time for 15 minutes of every hour! And, based on the people watching I did, it seems it is even a pretty good place for a date!

Have a happy summer!

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For more information on AV Symington Aquatic Park, please visit:

http://www.leesburgva.gov/index.aspx?page=99