The wait is finally over! After a lengthy hiatus, the iconic Aquarena in St. John's is ready to welcome swimmers once again. But here's the catch: it's been a long journey, and the public has been eagerly awaiting this moment.
Imagine the excitement of the swim clubs as they took the first plunge into the renovated pool on Wednesday. The facility, which closed for renovations in 2023, has undergone a $25 million transformation over two years. And now, it's almost ready to reveal its new look to the public.
"It's a huge relief and a great feeling to be back," shared Nathan Wilson, a member of the St. John's Legends club. The anticipation has been building, especially since the Aquarena was originally built for the Canada Games in 1977 and then renovated for the 2025 edition.
But here's where it gets controversial: the pool reopened for the Games, only to close again for further renovations. This left swimmers seeking alternatives, but now, they're ready to reclaim their beloved facility.
The Aquarena is set to reopen fully next week, offering lane swims, lessons, and more. Among the exciting upgrades are a new diving tower, a state-of-the-art timing system, and family change rooms, making the space more accessible than ever. And let's not forget the brand new waterslide, though it's a bit smaller than the old one.
However, some amenities, like saunas and hot tubs, will take a few more months to become available. The beloved Tim Horton's inside The Works will also make a comeback, but the timing is yet to be confirmed.
"The Aquarena has a special place in the hearts of many," said Craig Neil, The Works general manager. "We believe it will attract both old and new visitors alike."
And this is the part most people miss: the Aquarena's reopening is not just about swimming; it's about community, history, and the joy of returning to a cherished space. So, will the public embrace the new Aquarena? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
