Summers are sweltering in the red-brick homes of Gravois Park and Dutchtown, so the L in the L-shaped Marquette Park Pool might as well stand for "lifesaver." Owing to a faulty pipe and funding issues, the pool was shuttered last year. But cool waters are flowing once again, thanks to a joint effort by 20th Ward alderwoman Cara Spencer and the city's parks department. Marquette is the city's largest swimming hole, and it's now five feet deep throughout — the deep end has been raised to make more room for the 200 swimmers who come on an average weekday. The setup is bare bones: The only chairs are fold-outs, the only shade is under a pair of sycamore trees and the only concessions come from vending machines. But entry is absolutely free — you don't even need proof of residency — and the lifeguards bring their own speakers to pump out old jams. 4025 Minnesota Avenue, St. Louis, 63118. 314-353-1250.