Family-Friendly Hotel Pools for NYC Staycations
If you’re trying to soak up every last second of summer and want to spend a day—or a weekend—pretending you’re on vacation, a local hotel pool might be just the thing. While beach trips and far-off getaways aren’t always possible, these NYC hotels offer a chance to cool off, unwind, and enjoy a family-friendly staycation without leaving the city. From rooftop pools with skyline views to relaxing indoor escapes, these spots offer just the right mix of fun and recharge time. Be sure to confirm age policies when booking, as some pools have time restrictions for kids.
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
60 Furman St., Brooklyn
With its unbeatable waterfront views and calm, natural aesthetic, 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is a great option for families looking to recharge without leaving the city. The rooftop pool—open to hotel guests only—is a serene, beautifully designed space overlooking the East River and Manhattan skyline. Kids are welcome during the day (until 6:30 pm), and families can reserve lounge chairs in two-hour blocks through the hotel app. While day passes aren’t available, overnight guests have full access to the pool, and the location can’t be beat: right next to Brooklyn Bridge Park, Jane’s Carousel, and Dumbo’s kid-friendly spots. Parents looking for a relaxed, elevated stay with a touch of luxury will appreciate the thoughtful design, quiet vibe, and easy access to plenty of local adventures.
Arlo Williamsburg
96 Wythe Ave., Brooklyn
In the heart of Brooklyn’s trendiest neighborhood, Arlo Williamsburg offers a lively and stylish staycation option with a rooftop pool overlooking the Manhattan skyline. Hotel guests receive complimentary pool access, with limited hours available for families. Children are only permitted during designated morning time slots and must be supervised. For those planning a kid-free escape, adult-only day passes are available starting at $85, which include access to the pool, lounge chairs, towel service, and rooftop bar. With its upbeat vibe, prime location near Domino Park and Williamsburg’s best restaurants, and stunning city views, Arlo is an excellent pick for parents looking to recharge, either with the kids in tow or on a quick grown-up-only getaway.
Margaritaville Resort Times Square
560 7th Ave., Manhattan
For families looking to stay right in the heart of the action, Margaritaville Resort Times Square offers a rooftop escape with a heated outdoor pool that welcomes kids of all ages. It’s a fun, laid-back spot to take a break from sightseeing—or enjoy a full day of city views, swim time, and bites from the poolside LandShark Bar & Grill. Hotel guests have complimentary access to the pool (included in the resort fee), and non-guests can purchase a day pass for $100, including lounge chairs and pool amenities. Cabanas are also available for an upgraded experience. With its central location, family-friendly atmosphere, and everything you need on-site, this is a solid option for a NYC staycation that doesn’t require much planning.
The Peninsula New York
700 5th Ave., Manhattan
For a luxury family staycation in the heart of Midtown, The Peninsula New York offers a peaceful escape just steps from Central Park, top museums, and Fifth Avenue shopping. The hotel’s glass-enclosed indoor pool on the 22nd floor is open daily and welcomes children, making it a relaxing, family-friendly spot to unwind year-round. While pool access is complimentary for hotel guests, non-guests can purchase a weekday spa day pass for $250 (includes access for two), which gives access to the pool, fitness center, and thermal suite. With spacious rooms, thoughtful amenities, and sweeping city views from the pool deck, The Peninsula is a refined and restful option for parents looking to recharge without leaving the city.
The Rockaway Hotel
108-10 Rockaway Beach Dr., Queens
Just steps from the sand, The Rockaway Hotel offers a breezy, beachside staycation with a heated outdoor pool that’s open seasonally. Hotel guests enjoy full access to the pool, with the option to rent cabanas for an additional fee. While the pool area is primarily geared toward adults, day passes for non-hotel guests are available for $125 per person; families staying overnight can enjoy pool time with children under adult supervision. With views of the ocean, on-site dining, and easy access to the boardwalk and beach, it’s a great choice for parents looking to combine city convenience with a laid-back coastal vibe.
The Marmara Park Avenue
114 E 32nd St., Manhattan
For a refined and low-key family staycation, The Marmara Park Avenue offers an elegant escape in the heart of Manhattan. Housed in a restored 1927 building, this boutique hotel features a serene, subterranean indoor pool perfect for unwinding after a busy day in the city. The pool is open to overnight guests and welcomes children with adult supervision, making it a peaceful, family-friendly amenity that feels tucked away from the Midtown bustle. Parents will appreciate the calming atmosphere, spacious suites with kitchenettes, and proximity to family attractions like the Empire State Building and Madison Square Park. Day passes start at $80, or book an overnight stay with access to the pool and wellness center, adding a touch of luxury to your family’s city getaway.
ModernHaus SoHo
27 Grand St., SoHo, Manhattan
ModernHaus SoHo offers a calm, design-forward escape in the middle of downtown—complete with a seasonal rooftop pool that’s surprisingly family-friendly. Kids are welcome with adult supervision, and the atmosphere is relaxed enough for a low-key afternoon splash, with sweeping city views. Pool access is included for hotel guests (covered by the daily facilities fee). Day passes are available through ResortPass starting at $295, consisting of a private day room, pool access, and in-room dining credit. Yes, it’s a splurge—but still far less than a flight to the Caribbean, and just about as nice. If you want to stretch out, stay cool, and spend a day pretending you’re on vacation, this downtown spot is a great way to do it—no passport required.
Royalton Park Avenue
420 Park Ave S, Manhattan
Royalton Park Avenue boasts a chic year‑round 20th‑floor rooftop pool featuring a 40‑ft heated indoor/outdoor swim space, plush lounge chairs, daybeds, poolside service, and a lifeguard. Children are welcome with adult supervision during morning and early afternoon hours before the 6 pm 21+ restriction kicks in, making it a solid choice for families seeking a stylish city daycation. You can book a day pass via ResortPass for as little as $25 (plus any resort fees) or inquire at the hotel directly (email or phone listed on their site). Parents will appreciate the convenient Midtown location near the Empire State Building, attentive poolside service, snack bar, and fitness center access—plus, booking an overnight stay includes pool privileges as part of the nightly resort fee (~ $55/night).
TWA Hotel
JFK Airport, One Idlewild Drive, Queens
The TWA Hotel’s rooftop infinity pool offers one of the most unique swim spots in the city, with panoramic runway views and a heated pool that doubles as a “pool-cuzzi” in colder months. Kids love watching the planes take off while they splash, making it a fun and memorable outing for the whole family. Day passes are available through ResortPass resortpass.com or directly through the hotel, starting at $25 for adults and $10 for kids (ages 5–12) on weekdays, with weekend pricing around $50 for adults. Children under 5 are free. Early morning access before 10:45 am is complimentary for overnight guests. With plenty of retro flair, food and drinks from The Pool Bar, and access to the hotel’s observation deck and mid-century exhibits, it’s a staycation that feels like a mini vacation—without ever leaving the city.
The William Vale
111 N. 12th St, Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Outdoor 60-ft heated rooftop pool with skyline views
The William Vale features Brooklyn’s longest outdoor rooftop pool, a 60-ft heated oasis on the fourth-floor terrace, with lifeguards, chaise lounges, cabanas, daybeds, a full food and cocktail menu, and skyline views. Children under 16 are welcome with an adult from 8 am until 12 pm daily. Hotel guests can reserve complimentary chaise lounge chairs in 3‑hour slots and upgrade to premium seating, while non-guests can purchase limited day passes via ResortPass—prices start around $99 on weekdays and $149 on weekends, with cabanas and daybeds available at extra cost. Early-rising families may consider a daycation here for a morning full of fun at this serene, chic pool vibes and family-friendly amenities. And it may be worth it to splurge for an overnight stay, which includes complimentary pool access.
