By Cailey Rizzo, Travel + Leisure
Concrete jungles retain heat like nowhere else on this earth — which is likely why pools are among the most coveted attractions in New York City.
And in a city as diverse as New York, the selection of aquatic destinations are equally varied. From lap pools with colorful decks in Brooklyn to all-night parties on a rooftop downtown, to a serene getaway perched above Central Park, there is a pool for every urban personality.
Concrete jungles retain heat like nowhere else on this earth — which is likely why pools are among the most coveted attractions in New York City.
And in a city as diverse as New York, the selection of aquatic destinations are equally varied. From lap pools with colorful decks in Brooklyn to all-night parties on a rooftop downtown, to a serene getaway perched above Central Park, there is a pool for every urban personality.
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However you’re looking to cool off this summer, here’s how to gain access to 12 of New York City's best pools.
The William Vale
To swim among the Brooklyn party set, take some laps at The William Vale. The hotel is now offering membership packages and day passes to its glittering rooftop pool. From Monday through Thursday, drop in with a day pass for $150. For those who want guaranteed access throughout the summer, a membership will cost you $5,000.
The Beach at Dream Downtown
Another pool that always offers a party is at the Dream Downtown. This summer, the hotel launched its first “members only” program, KEYED IN, offering access to the pool (with a plus-one) for only 100 approved applicants, priced at $999. But passersby can drop into the pool any time after 8 p.m. and take advantage of Manhattan’s only rooftop sand beach.
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McCarren Hotel & Pool
The McCarren Pool has one of New York City’s most colorful decks — and its best poolside deals. A pass costs $45 per day during the week and $65 per day Friday through Sunday. Sun beds are available starting at $85 for a single. Seating is first come, first served. Advance bookings are available for groups of 10 or more. Access to the pool includes Wi-Fi, outdoor showers, and towels.
Hotel Americano
For a cosmopolitan dip, the rooftop pool at the Hotel Americano offers day passes. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the week and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the weekends, anybody can take the elevator up to the top floor and laze around La Piscine. The poolside menu includes standard summer fare like oysters, tacos, and many different tequilas. Weekday day passes cost $45 and weekend day passes cost $60.
SoHo House
[post_ads]Often regarded as the most celeb-studded pool in New York City, you’ll need exclusive membership in order to get into this swimming hole. Conditions for membership consideration include a job in the “creative industries,” two recommendations from current SoHo House members, and an annual membership fee of $2,100 (or $1,050 if you’re under 27). If you can’t meet those requirements, book a room at the hotel for access during your stay.
Le Parker Meridien
For swimmers who prefer their pools with a hint of green, this pool (on the 42nd floor of The Parker) has unobstructed views of Central Park. A membership to the pool — which also includes access to the hotel gym, classes, and sundeck — will cost $305 per month. Day passes are also available from $150 per person.
The Peninsula New York
It’s a truth acknowledged across the five boroughs: NYC pools are crowded, often hectic places. Swimmers seeking a dose of serenity should dive into the pool on The Peninsula’s 45th floor. You can get pool access by booking a service at the spa (which spans three floors), staying at the hotel, or signing up for a summer membership. The Summer Fitness Membership costs $525 per month (with a three-month commitment). Members get four guest passes, so choose your friends wisely.
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Sixty Lower East Side
Everybody wants to get into this pop-art decorated, heated, saltwater pool, complete with Andy Warhol on the floor. That’s why it’s only open to hotel guests. But there’s a workaround: cabana rentals. You can rent a cabana with four poolside loungers (for up to eight people) through Labor Day. The rentals are available for $750 Monday through Friday and on the weekend for $1,000. Guests have to meet a beverage minimum, but it shouldn’t be hard with the Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya menu.
Le Bain at The Standard Highline
This is the grown-up version of a pool party. During summer nights, The Standard’s Le Bain penthouse discotheque opens up its pool and things get rowdy. Show up to a party in your swimsuit and dive in to cool off.
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Park Hyatt New York
The lap pool on the 25th floor of the Park Hyatt is only open to hotel guests and those who live in the condos above. But the velvet rope is lifted when you book a spa day. If you book at least an hour-long spa session at the Nalai Spa, you’ll get access to the pool, spa terrace, and eucalyptus steam room.
JIMMY at The James
[post_ads]Access to this aquatic hotspot is exclusively for hotel guests until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 3 p.m. on the weekends. Your best bet for access to this pool is to attend the weekend parties. Starting at 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, JIMMY at The James opens up for a public pool party. Although, be warned: party-goers won’t be able to swim laps or float around on inflatables. The water gets crowded fast.
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
Get outside the action but keep the view at the rooftop pool at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge. While other NYC pools may offer more impressive amenities, it’s difficult to beat this view. The rooftop pool and terrace face west so you can swim and watch the sunset over Manhattan at the same time. There’s no cover charge to get into the pool — although you’ll have to meet a minimum for food and beverage.
