Summer is the perfect time to get out, get active and make memories with the people who matter most!
From pool days and splash parties to outdoor workouts, family events and wellness opportunities enjoyed all year long, your YMCA membership opens the door to countless ways to stay active, connected and engaged as a family.
Here are a few ideas to add to your family's summer checklist—and beyond.
1. Make a Splash at the Prime Time H2O Zone at the Gretna Crossing YMCA
Nothing says summer quite like a day at the pool.
Spend an afternoon floating the lazy river, racing down water slides, splashing in the zero-depth entry pool or watching little ones enjoy interactive water features designed just for them. Don't forget to grab a slice of pizza or ice cream from the concessions area!
As an official stop on the 2026 Nebraska Passport Program, the Prime Time H20 Zone at the Gretna Crossing YMCA is a summer destination the whole family can enjoy together!
Did you know? As a YMCA of Greater Omaha member, you can save up to $210 on the purchase of a Prime Time H20 Zone season pass and enjoy unlimited visits all season long.
2. Host a Splash Party
Make even more waves at the Prime Time H2O Zone with an all-new offering this year: a Splash Party!
Whether you're planning a birthday, end-of-season team celebration, family gathering or simply looking for an excuse to bring your favorite people together, a Prime Time H2O Zone Splash Party takes the stress out of planning and puts the focus on fun.
You bring the guests—and cake or cupcakes if you'd like. We'll save the picnic table area so you can kick back between splash sessions.
3. Turn Playtime Into Family Time—at Open Gym or Open Swim
The weather can be unpredictable, but family fun doesn't have to be!
Stop by open gym and challenge one another to a game of basketball or volleyball. Bring your own ball or check with the Welcome Center during your next visit. We have some available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis. Soccer balls included.
Or skip the equipment altogether and create your own game.
Prefer the pool? We offer open swim hours! Many of our pools feature zero-depth entry, slides, splash areas and other family friendly water features.
Lap lanes are also available and keeping the active older adults in our lives in mind, the YMCA Healthy Living in Council Bluffs, Iowa, has a therapeutic warm-water pool.
For more information, see our schedules online!
4. Get a Workout In Together
Looking to stay active as a family?
Youth ages 10 and older can work out alongside a parent or caregiver on the wellness floor or participate in select group exercise classes. For youth ages 10-13, completion of the YMCA's free Youth Fitness Training program is required before using the wellness floor or attending eligible group exercise classes.
Designed to build confidence and knowledge, the Youth Fitness Training program covers equipment safety, proper exercise technique, weight room etiquette, basic nutrition and character development. Classes are led by YMCA personal trainers and parents do not need to be present during the training.
Once certified, youth can enjoy the wellness floor with a parent or caregiver and participate in select group exercise classes, depending on the class and branch.
It's a fun way to build confidence and learn lifelong wellness skills together.
Sign up for a Youth Fitness Training class at the Welcome Center of your home YMCA location.
5. Take Your Workout Outdoors
The Downtown Family YMCA is taking fitness outdoors this summer!
Join us for two group exercise classes on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings through October 29 at The RiverFront in Downtown Omaha. Classes will be held at the Downtown Green at Gene Leahy Mall, just off 13th Street.
These classes are free and open to the public, as well as all ages and abilities!
Yoga Sculpt: Mondays | 6-7 p.m.
A total-body workout that combines the flow of yoga with the intensity of strength training.
Total Body Conditioning: Tuesdays & Thursdays | 5:30-6:30 p.m.
A high-intensity cardio and strength workout designed to improve overall fitness, agility, speed and athleticism.
In the event of inclement weather, these classes will be held inside at the Downtown Family YMCA.
To stay in the know and for location updates, please follow our dedicated Facebook page!
6. Walk Somewhere New Together
Some of the best summer memories happen during simple conversations!
Many of our YMCA locations offer walking clubs that make it easy to get moving together, get in some low impact movement, and make new friends along the way. They're also a great opportunity to start up a friendly competition with a steps challenge.
Contact your home location or the Welcome Center on your next visit for more information!
7. Attend an Event
Throughout the year, our YMCA locations host events and activities designed to bring families and communities together.
From special celebrations to seasonal fun, our events provide plenty of ways to create memories beyond your regular routine and connect with other YMCA families.
Stay tuned to our events page for more information!
8. Visit a YMCA You've Never Been To
Did you know? Your membership includes access to all 13 locations across the Greater Omaha-Council Bluffs area.
Challenge your family to explore a branch you've never visited before. Better yet, visit and ask about a tour!
You never know—you just might find another favorite place to spend time together.
Our Locations Search for an Activity
A Little Something Extra for Caregivers
Especially as summer comes to an end and right before the start of a new school year, we all could use a little time to ourselves. That's just as important as spending time together!
- With our free drop-in care for family memberships, parents and caregivers can make use of the Y and make time to take care of themselves while your children enjoy a safe, engaging environment nearby.
- Select YMCA locations offer Parents Night Out programs, giving kids a fun night of activities at their YMCA while parents and caregivers enjoy a little time out and about. Care services are offered on weekend nights to members for free for school-aged children.
To learn more about these programs, click the link below!
The YMCA is here to help your family stay connected and create memories that last long after summer ends.
Start checking items off your family's summer checklist today and please know, we're here for you—always!
- Andrea H., digital marketing director