What is Scott Carpenter Park? A 25-acre park named for Boulder's Mercury astronaut, featuring an outdoor swimming pool, iconic rocket-themed playground, skate park, and seasonal ice skating rink. The space theme makes it a kid favorite. Pool open summers; ice rink winters. Park is free; pool/rink have fees.
Overview
Location: 30th Street & Arapahoe Ave, Boulder
Size: 25 acres
Entry Fee: Park free; pool and ice rink have admission fees
Hours: Park 5am-11pm; facility hours vary
Scott Carpenter Park honors Boulder native Scott Carpenter, one of NASA's original Mercury Seven astronauts. The space theme runs throughout—most notably the rocket playground that's been delighting kids for decades. The park offers year-round recreation: swimming in summer, ice skating in winter.
Features
Scott Carpenter Pool
Season: Memorial Day - Labor Day
Hours: Varies; check Boulder Parks schedule
Fees: ~$6 adults, ~$4 youth/seniors
Outdoor pool with lap lanes, diving boards, and a lazy river. Water slides for kids. Lessons and water aerobics offered. Gets busy on hot summer days—arrive early. Concessions available.
Rocket Playground
The iconic rocket ship climbing structure has been a Boulder landmark since 1967. Kids climb inside and up through multiple levels. Recently updated with additional modern play equipment while preserving the beloved rocket. Sand play areas nearby.
Ice Skating Rink
Season: November - February (weather dependent)
Hours: Varies; check schedule
Fees: ~$6-8 including skate rental
Outdoor refrigerated ice rink. Rentals available. Public skating sessions plus lessons and hockey time. The mountain backdrop makes for scenic skating.
Skate Park
Concrete skate park with bowls, rails, and street features. Free to use. Popular with skateboarders of all levels. Helmets required for riders under 18.
Sports Fields
Baseball diamonds and open grass areas. Some fields used for league play; others open for casual use.
Facilities
- Large free parking lot
- Restrooms and changing rooms (at pool)
- Picnic areas and shelters
- Concessions (summer)
- Boulder Creek Path access
Tips
Pool timing: The pool is busiest 1-4pm on hot weekends. Morning lap swim is quieter. Buy passes in advance during heat waves.
Skating conditions: The outdoor rink depends on weather. Check conditions before going. Cold, clear days are best.
Parking: The lot is large but fills during pool peak hours. The park connects to Boulder Creek Path—bike if you can.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the rocket playground still there?
Yes! The iconic 1967 rocket was preserved and updated. It remains the park's centerpiece.
Can I skate if I don't have skates?
Yes, skate rentals are included in admission to the ice rink.
Is the park named after the astronaut?
Yes. Scott Carpenter was born in Boulder and was one of the original Mercury Seven astronauts. He orbited Earth in 1962.