A Guide to Top Parks and Pools in NYC
The easiest way to beat the heat in NYC is to visit big pools like Gottesman Pool, Astoria Park Pool, McCarren Park Pool, and the Floating Pool. When the weather feels too warm, these places give kids safe water, lifeguards, and plenty of room to swim without feeling crowded. It’s officially stay-near-sprinklers-or-find-a-pool hot in the city, and there’s no better way for families to cool off than with a refreshing dip in the water.
Good news: NYC public pools reopen for the season today! Whether you already have a go-to neighborhood spot or you’re ready to explore a new favorite, the city has plenty of family-friendly pools perfect for summer fun.
The outdoor Olympic- and intermediate-sized pools will remain open through Sunday, September 7, and the mini pools will stay open through Labor Day. Daily pool hours are 11 am to 3 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm, with a cleaning break from 3 pm to 4 pm. Sunscreen is provided free of charge at all NYC public pools. Free summer meals are provided to children as part of NYC’s Free Summer Meals Program.
We’ve rounded up some of the top public pools across the five boroughs to help you plan your splash-filled days. So grab the sunscreen, goggles, snacks, and towels—it’s pool time in the city!
Too Long, Didn’t Read
- Most Visited pools in NYC: Gottesman Pool, Astoria Park Pool, McCarren Park Pool, the Floating Pool, Lyons Pool.
- Outdoor options: Astoria Park, Sunset Park, Crotona Park, Marcus Garvey Park.
- Indoor-style experience: Gottesman Pool’s modern design, Barretto Point’s Floating Pool (shaded deck, calm space).
- For little kids: Abe Lincoln Pool, Dry Dock Pool, Sheltering Arms Pool, Liberty Pool.
- Best for big swimmers: Hamilton Fish Pool, Highbridge Pool, Jackie Robinson Pool.
- Good for families: Asser Levy Pool, John Jay Pool, Fort Totten Pool, Tottenville Pool.
- Safety basics: Stay near lifeguards, use sunscreen, take shade breaks, follow pool rules, and choose the right depth for your child.
Now that you know the top spots to swim and play, it’s time to see what each place is like and what makes it special for families. The list below will help you pick the pool or park that feels just right for your summer day, so you can splash, relax, and enjoy the sunshine together.
Psst… Central Park’s Stunning New Gottesman Pool Opens
Top Parks and Pools in Manhattan
Gottesman Pool – Central Park North / Harlem
New for summer 2025, Gottesman Pool is one of the city’s largest and most modern public pools, perfect for families who want lots of space to swim and play. Located at the northern edge of Central Park inside the new Davis Center, this sleek, resort-style pool comfortably fits over 1,000 swimmers and is surrounded by shaded seating and natural landscaping. While there’s no wading pool, the wide layout makes it a great pick for families with confident swimmers.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/central-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/gottesman-pool-at-the-davis-center
Address: 110th Street & Lenox Avenue (Harlem Meer)
Abe Lincoln Pool – East Harlem
Abe Lincoln Pool is one of those NYC parks where kids can splash around and families can enjoy a fun day together. The outdoor mini pool at Abe Lincoln Pool in East Harlem is a good spot in the neighborhood to cool off on a hot day. When not swimming, kids can play on the playground, in the spray showers or on the basketball courts.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/abraham-lincoln-playground/facilities/outdoor-pools/abe-lincoln-pool
Address: E 135th St. and 5th Ave.
Asser Levy Pool – Kips Bay
With an intermediate pool and a wading pool, Asser Levy Pool can accommodate various age spans. The wading pool is perfect for families with young kids who just want to beat the heat, and the intermediate pool, at four feet deep, is a good choice for more intermediate swimmers.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/asser-levy-recreation-center-pool-and-playground/facilities/outdoor-pools/asser-levy-pool
Address: E. 23rd St. and Asser Levy Place
Dry Dock Pool — East Village
For a more local spot to let off steam during the summer months, head on down to Dry Dock Pool in East Village. Here, children can work up a sweat on the playground and basketball court, then cool off in one of the two clean, kid-friendly pools. Both pools, one three feet deep and the other one and a half feet deep, offer lifeguard supervision, making Dry Dock Pool ideal for families with beginner swimmers.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/dry-dock-playground-and-pool/facilities/outdoor-pools/dry-dock-pool
Address: E. 10th St. between Aves. C and D
Frederick Douglass Pool – Upper West Side
Frederick Douglass Pool is a peaceful place in NYC where families can spend a slow, relaxing day without worrying about big crowds. Frederick Douglass Playground features a mini pool. It’s also the only public pool on the Upper West Side, so it’s sure to be a popular pick! While it’s not an Olympic-sized swimming pool like you might find at other parks, it’s a good choice for families on the Upper West Side looking to cool off.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/frederick-douglass-playground/facilities/outdoor-pools/frederick-douglass-pool
Address: Amsterdam Ave between 100th and 102nd St.
Hamilton Fish Park – East Village
This East Village pool is, to many residents, Manhattan’s best public pool! Like many of the parks with pools, this park has two pools of different sizes! There is a wading pool for the younger ones and an Olympic-size pool for older kids and adults. After your swim, you can stop at the nearby park and picnic area to continue enjoying the day.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/hamilton-fish-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/hamilton-fish-pool
Address: Pitt Street and E. Houston Street
Highbridge Pool – Washington Heights
Highbridge Pool is one of the most popular New York public pools, with an Olympic-size pool for serious swimmers and a wading area for little ones to play safely. With an Olympic pool and a wading pool, Highbridge Pool has been a neighborhood favorite long before it was featured in In the Heights. When you’re not swimming, you can play in the spray showers, on the playgrounds or on a skate park.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/highbridge-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/highbridge-pool
Address: Amsterdam Ave and W 173rd St.
Jackie Robinson Park – Harlem
Located in Harlem, this park has an Olympic-size pool with plenty of shade to better protect swimmers from the sun’s rays. There’s no need for a kiddie pool, as this one only goes as deep as 3.5 feet. But if anyone in your family is not interested in swimming, there is also a sprayground and playground right on the pool deck!
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/jackie-robinson-park_manhattan/facilities/outdoor-pools/jackie-robinson-pool
Address: 145th Street at Bradhurst Avenue
John Jay Pool — Upper East Park
John Jay Pool is one of the most scenic NYC parks and pools, with a big swimming area where families can enjoy laps or spend a fun and easy day together. Nestled in the back of an Upper East Side park, John Jay Pool is a staple for Uptown Manhattanites. This gorgeous 145-foot pool is perfect for swimming laps or for watching boats go by in the East River. As one of the only outdoor pools in NYC with a diving area, John Jay Pool is a hit for children and adults alike. Be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before it opens, as long lines form quickly, lounge chairs fill up fast, and there is a limited number of people allowed inside.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/john-jay-park-and-pool/facilities/outdoor-pools/john-jay-pool
Address: East of York Avenue on 77th St.
Marcus Garvey Park – Harlem
The Marcus Garvey pool is right in the middle of the famous park and has a maximum depth of 4 feet. It is also surrounded by a large pool deck where guests can chill out between dips.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/marcus-garvey-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/marcus-garvey-pool
Address: 124th Street at Fifth Avenue
Sheltering Arms Pool – West Harlem
The wading pool and intermediate pools at Sheltering Arms have maximum depths of 1.5 feet and 3.5 feet, respectively, making them good options for families and early swimmers. The pool deck has comfortable chairs and umbrellas.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/sheltering-arms-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/sheltering-arms-pool
Address: W. 129th St. and Amsterdam Ave.
Thomas Jefferson Pool – East Harlem
Located within Thomas Jefferson Park, Thomas Jefferson Pool is just one of many things to do on a summer day. It’s also located right by barbecuing areas, so your family can have a full day of fun at the pool!
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/thomas-jefferson-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/thomas-jefferson-pool
Address: E. 112th St and First Ave.
Vesuvio Pool – South Village
Vesuivo Playground is one of the few greenspaces in the South Village, complete with a three-foot mini pool, sandboxes, spray showers and more.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/vesuvio-playground/facilities/outdoor-pools/vesuvio-pool
Address: Thompson St. between Spring & Prince St.
Wagner Pool – East Harlem
Just having opened in the summer of 2019, this is a medium-sized pool in East Harlem, and it’s surrounded by cool, colorful walls and beach chairs. There is also a wading pool on-site so kids of all ages and skill levels can enjoy themselves.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/wagner-houses-pool/facilities/outdoor-pools/wagner-pool
Address: E. 124th Street between First and Second Avenue
Top Parks and Pools in Queens
Astoria Park – Astoria
Astoria Park is one of the most popular New York public pools for families, with plenty of space for everyone to swim, play, and enjoy the day together. Astoria Park’s pool is the largest in the city and is a whopping 330 feet in length. The wading area for little kids is actually not a separate pool, but a section that is roped off so that the little ones can be in the same pool as everyone else while remaining safe!
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/astoria-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/astoria-pool
Address: 19th Street and 23rd Drive
Fisher Pool – East Elmhurst
Fisher Pool is one of the friendliest NYC public pools and parks, where families can swim, enjoy the colorful mural, and spend a relaxed summer day together. Enjoy the water while you admire the adorable penguin mural at this pool in East Elmhurst!
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/fisher-pool/facilities/outdoor-pools/fisher-pool
Address: 99th Street at 32nd Avenue
Fort Totten Pool – Fort Totten
Splash in Fort Totten Park’s three pools while enjoying views of the scenic and historic park that surrounds them.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/fort-totten-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/fort-totten-pool
Address: 338 Story Avenue
Liberty Pool – Jamaica
Located in the Detective Keith L. Williams Park, this pool is somewhat small in comparison to the rest on this list, but also has a nice, relaxing wading pool. This pool is also one of the city’s “cool pools,” so it gets plenty of shade provided by the umbrellas surrounding it.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/detective-keith-l-williams-park-liberty-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/liberty-pool
Address: 173rd Street at 106th Avenue
Top Parks and Pools in Brooklyn
Sunset Park – Sunset Park
Sunset Park is one of the most scenic examples of NYC parks with pools, offering an Olympic-size pool where families can swim while enjoying views of the city skyline. The park is home to an Olympic-size pool from which you can enjoy views of lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and the harbor!
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/sunset-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/sunset-park-pool
Address: 7th Avenue between 41st and 44th Street
Betsy Head Park – Brownsville
This Brownsville-based pool is located in the park, which has gone through various renovations, including a new playground overhaul. The pool is Olympic-size and has a maximum depth of 4 feet.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/betsy-head-memorial-playground/facilities/outdoor-pools/betsy-head-pool
Address: Boyland Street between Livonia and Dumont Avenue
Kosciuszko Pool – Bed-Stuy
Head over to Bed-Stuy for a dip in this Olympic-size pool, which is also accompanied by a wading pool and is often praised for its cleanliness!
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/kosciuszko-pool/facilities/outdoor-pools/kosciuszko-pool
Address: Marcy Avenue between DeKalb Avenue and Kosciuszko Street
McCarren Park Pool – Border of Williamsburg and Greenpoint
Head to this very popular and beloved Olympic-sized pool at McCarren Park for plenty of room to splash and swim. If the kids are tired of the pool, head to the turtle park next door and cool off at the sprinklers.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/mccarren-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/mccarren-park-pool
Address: Lorimer St & Driggs Ave
Top Parks and Pools in the Bronx
The Floating Pool — Barretto Point Park
“The Floating Pool Lady” in Barretto Point Park is a must-have on your summer bucket list. This seven-lane pool sits atop a movable barge in the East River, offering a waterfront view that will delight even the youngest of swimmers. Children can splash in the sprinklers or dry off with a picnic on the lawn area surrounding the pool.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/X307/facilities/outdoor-pools/floating-pool
Address: Tiffany Street & Viele Avenue
Crotona Pool – Crotona
In Crotona, this park houses both an Olympic-size pool and an awesome sprayground right on the deck for the kids to enjoy if they’re not quite ready for the big pool!
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/crotona-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/crotona-pool
Address: E. 173rd Street and Fulton Avenue
Mullaly Park – Morrisania
Mullaly Park in Morrisania, South Bronx, has a medium-sized pool and a wading pool. Spend the day enjoying the park, which boasts a playground, sprinklers, greenery, and a skate park!
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/mullaly-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/mullaly-pool
Address: E. 164th Street between Jerome and River Avenue
Haffen Park – Baychester
The park, based in Baychester, has a medium-sized pool and a wading pool in a separate area.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/haffen-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/haffen-pool
Address: Burke Avenue at Ely Avenue
Top Parks and Pools in Staten Island
Lyons Pool – Westerleigh
This large pool is located in Westerleigh near the Staten Island Railway, buses and Staten Island Ferry terminal, making it accessible for commuters from other boroughs.
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/lyons-pool/facilities/outdoor-pools/lyons-pool
Address: Pier 6 and Victory Boulevard
Tottenville Pool – Tottenville
Tottenville has both an intermediate-sized main pool and a wading pool. When you’re done splashing, visit the nearby playground while you dry off. This is another one of the few pools that have “cool pool treatment,” so it’s perfect for those who are not the biggest fans of the blazing sun!
Website: www.nycgovparks.org/parks/tottenville-pool/facilities/outdoor-pools/tottenville-pool
Address: Hylan Boulevard and Joline Avenue
Psst… Check Out School’s Out! Fun Things to Do in NYC with Kids This Summer
Comparison Table: Top Parks and Pools in NYC
Manhattan Pools
| Pool Name | Neighborhood | Pool Type | Best For | Address |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gottesman Pool | Central Park North / Harlem | Large modern pool | Families with confident swimmers, lots of space | 110th St & Lenox Ave |
| Abe Lincoln Pool | East Harlem | Mini pool | Young kids, splash play, playground + courts | E 135th St & 5th Ave |
| Asser Levy Pool | Kips Bay | Intermediate + wading | Mixed ages, younger kids | E 23rd St & Asser Levy Pl |
| Dry Dock Pool | East Village | 3 ft pool + 1.5 ft pool | Beginner swimmers, playground + courts | E 10th St between Aves C & D |
| Frederick Douglass Pool | Upper West Side | Mini pool | Local families, quieter days | Amsterdam Ave between 100th–102nd |
| Hamilton Fish Park Pool | East Village | Olympic + wading | Older kids + little ones, picnic area | Pitt St & E Houston St |
| Highbridge Pool | Washington Heights | Olympic + wading | All ages, spray showers + playground | Amsterdam Ave & W 173rd St |
| Jackie Robinson Park Pool | Harlem | 3.5 ft pool | All ages, shaded seating, sprayground | 145th St & Bradhurst Ave |
| John Jay Pool | Upper East Side | Large pool + diving | Lap swimming, scenic East River views | East of York Ave on 77th St |
| Marcus Garvey Pool | Harlem | 4-ft pool | Families wanting big deck space | 124th St & Fifth Ave |
| Sheltering Arms Pool | West Harlem | Wading + intermediate | Early swimmers, shaded seats | W 129th St & Amsterdam Ave |
| Thomas Jefferson Pool | East Harlem | Large pool | Full day trips, near BBQ area | E 112th St & First Ave |
| Vesuvio Pool | South Village | 3-ft mini pool | Toddlers, spray showers, sandboxes | Thompson St between Spring & Prince |
| Wagner Pool | East Harlem | Medium pool + wading | All ages, colorful setting | E 124th St between 1st & 2nd Ave |
Queens Pools
| Pool Name | Neighborhood | Pool Type | Best For | Address |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Astoria Park Pool | Astoria | Large 330-ft pool + kids section | Big family outings, iconic pool | 19th St & 23rd Dr |
| Fisher Pool | East Elmhurst | Pool with mural | Younger kids, playful vibe | 99th St & 32nd Ave |
| Fort Totten Pool | Fort Totten | Three pools | Families wanting scenic views | 338 Story Ave |
| Liberty Pool | Jamaica | Small pool + wading | Families who want shade (cool pool) | 173rd St & 106th Ave |
Brooklyn Pools
| Pool Name | Neighborhood | Pool Type | Best For | Address |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunset Park Pool | Sunset Park | Olympic | Families wanting skyline views | 7th Ave between 41st–44th |
| Betsy Head Pool | Brownsville | Olympic | Big swim space, renovated park | Boyland St between Livonia & Dumont |
| Kosciuszko Pool | Bed-Stuy | Olympic + wading | Clean water, young swimmers | Marcy Ave between DeKalb & Kosciuszko |
| McCarren Park Pool | Williamsburg/Greenpoint | Olympic | Very popular spot, near sprinklers | Lorimer St & Driggs Ave |
Bronx Pools
| Pool Name | Neighborhood | Pool Type | Best For | Address |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Floating Pool Lady | Barretto Point Park | Seven-lane pool on a barge | Unique experience, waterfront fun | Tiffany St & Viele Ave |
| Crotona Pool | Crotona | Olympic + sprayground | All ages, kids not ready for big pool | E 173rd St & Fulton Ave |
| Mullaly Park Pool | Morrisania | Medium + wading | Park day: playground, sprinklers, skate park | E 164th St between Jerome & River |
| Haffen Pool | Baychester | Medium + wading | Families wanting quieter pool time | Burke Ave & Ely Ave |
Staten Island Pools
| Pool Name | Neighborhood | Pool Type | Best For | Address |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lyons Pool | Westerleigh | Large pool | Easy access from ferry + transit | Pier 6 & Victory Blvd |
| Tottenville Pool | Tottenville | Intermediate + wading | Shade lovers (cool pool), playground nearby | Hylan Blvd & Joline Ave |
Tips for Visiting Public Pools in NYC
Reference URL: https://newyorksimply.com/new-york-city-public-pools-nyc/
Visiting a public pool in New York City can be one of the best ways to cool off on a hot summer day. Pools are big, full of splashes, and perfect for kids who love to swim, play, and run around. Before you go, it’s helpful to know a few simple things to make your day safe, fun, and stress-free.
Following a few easy tips helps your family have a smooth pool day. Knowing what to bring, how to behave in the water, and where to sit can make a huge difference. These simple reminders keep everyone happy, safe, and ready to enjoy every splash from start to finish.
- Pack Only the Pool Basics: Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and a bottle of water so you feel ready for the day. Big bags, toys, or floaties are not allowed inside, so carrying only the basics keeps things easy and helps you get inside faster.
- Put on a Real Swimsuit: Wear a real swimsuit that is made for swimming because regular clothes are not allowed in the water. A proper swimsuit helps you move better, stay safe, and enjoy every splash without any trouble at the gate.
- Bring a Lock for Your Locker: Carry your own lock so you can use a locker for your shoes, bag, and extra clothes. Pools do not give out locks, so having one with you keeps your things safe while you swim and play.
- Listen to the Lifeguards: Pay attention to what the lifeguards say because their job is to keep every swimmer safe. Lifeguards watch the whole pool, remind kids to be careful, and know what to do if someone needs help.
- Take Little Breaks: Take small breaks every now and then to rest your arms and legs, drink water, and cool down. Breaks help your body stay strong so you can keep swimming and playing without getting too tired.
FAQs
What is the most popular park in New York City?
Central Park is the most popular park in the city. Kids and families love it because there is so much to do. There are playgrounds, wide open fields, trails, and even places to spot birds and squirrels. There is always something fun to see or explore for everyone.
What is the most visited park in NYC?
The most visited park is also Central Park. Millions of people come every year to walk, run, ride bikes, or just enjoy the green space in the middle of the busy city. It is big, beautiful, and easy for families to spend the whole day there.
What is the biggest pool in NYC?
Astoria Park Pool in Queens is the biggest pool in New York City. It is huge, 330 feet long. Kids can swim, splash, and have plenty of space to play without bumping into each other. Even the little ones have a safe section to enjoy.
Which NYC Park has the best views?
Sunset Park in Brooklyn has some of the best views in the city. From the Olympic-size pool, families can see the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the harbor. Swimming there feels like a mini adventure with a picture-perfect view.
