NYC’s Best Free Pools

Cool off this summer at one of New York City’s free public pools. Yes, you heard correctly, free! You and your family can enjoy a day full of splashing and water fun this summer!

John Jay Pool
John Jay Pool

Bronx

Claremont Pool: There outdoors pool is open from June 27 through September 1 there is plenty of time to visit. From 11 A.M. to 3 P.M. and 4 P.M. to 7 P.M. you can take a break from the busy life and relax in the water.

Location: 17th Street and Clay Avenue

Van Cortlandt Park Pool: The largest non-Olympic size public pool in NYC is yours to visit for free this summer! The 164-ft pool is surrounded by trees to help you cool down on a hot summers day.

Location: W 242 Street and Broadway

Brooklyn

McCarran Park: Originally built in 1936 (one of the 11 pools built by Robert Moses) the pool was closed in 1984 and was not used until 2005. And get this the pool wasn’t used for swimming! The pool held concerts, dances, and movies. In 2012 it was renovated and reopened to the public.

Location: 776 Lorimer Street

Red Hook Pool: Large pool that will leave you feeling refreshed. A day by the pool with your family is a great way to relax and enjoy the summer heat.

Location: 155 Bay Street

Manhattan

Asser Levy Recreation Center: This facility has both an indoor and outdoor pool. The outdoor pool is 120 feet long and 4-ft deep. 4 feet is not that deep which makes it a great place for children.

Location: 501 Asser Levy Place

Dry Dock Playground: Located in the East Village of Manhattan, this pool is 3 feet deep, which young children enjoy because they can touch the bottom! This pool also has a wading pool nearby for the little ones in the family.

Location: Szold Place

John Jay Park and Pool: This pool was created in 1940 and has been opened ever since! During the summer time this pool fills up with swimmers and sunbathers looking to catch some rays.

Location: 77 Cherokee Place

Lasker Rink and Pool: In the summer this pool if filled with water and families splashing around and having fun, but in the winter the pool is converted into a skating rink! Children of all ages can come and skate here in the cooler months along with hockey teams.

Location: Between 106th and 108th Streets (Central Park)

Tomkins Square Park Pool: During the summer it sometimes feels like you can’t escape the heat, especially in the NYC. Head on over to this 3 feet deep pool to lower your body temperature and have a day of fun!

Location: Alphabet City

Queens

Astoria Park Pool: The largest pool in NYC also happens to be the most popular. It is 330 feet in length and has a special sectioned off section for kids! Get there early to find a prime spot!

Location: 19th Street and 23rd Drive

For more information on the pools you can visit NYC Parks or the pools individual websites.

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