104 Best Things to Do in New York City: A Local’s Guide
Check out my ultimate local's guide to the best things to do in New York City. Including non-touristy things to do, it'll be a trip you won't soon forget.
Hitting up a rooftop pool is one of the best ways to beat the heat in New York City during the summer.
I’ll admit, this has been a bucket list activity of mine for some time, since rooftop pools in NYC book up quickly.
After all, who doesn’t want to lounge all day by the pool, looking out over the New York skyline with a cocktail in hand?
I know I’m already daydreaming about it!
Just sit back and relax, I’ve gathered all you need to know about the best rooftop pools in NYC to make sure you know everything you need to plan the perfect pool day!
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Top 10 Rooftop Pools in NYC
1. Gansevoort Meatpacking
Book a stay at the trendy Gansevoort Meatpacking hotel to enjoy their heated rooftop pool, which is exclusive to guests and open year-round.
I haven’t had the chance to check out their pool yet, but I’m already daydreaming about relaxing up there one hot day.
Book your stay today to beat the summer heat with a cocktail in hand while enjoying the stunning views.
Address: 18 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014
Entrance Policy: Must be a hotel guest.
2. 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
For stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty, while taking a dip, head to 1 Brooklyn Bridge.
This luxurious hotel offers a unique and eco-friendly oasis for an unforgettable rooftop pool experience.
Lounge chairs are only for hotel guests, so book yourself a little staycation today.
Address: 60 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Entrance Policy: Hotel guests only.
3. The William Vale
Soak up the sun, while sipping cocktails from The William Vale’s poolside bar.
This 60 ft. pool is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy breathtaking views of Manhattan.
Address: 111 N 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Entrance Policy: Limited day passes are available for non-guests. Guests can reserve complimentary terrace lounges.
4. TWA Hotel
Step back into the 1960s at the TWA Hotel‘s rooftop pool.
With a runway view and retro vibes, this infinity-edge pool has been on my NYC bucket list for a while now.
It’s the perfect spot for aviation enthusiasts, or anyone with a layover at JFK, who wants to take a refreshing dip while watching planes land and take off.
Address: John F. Kennedy International Airport, One, JFK Access Road, Idlewild Dr, Queens, NY 11430
Entrance Policy: Guests and non-guests must reserve a spot and an entrance fee. Consult their website, as they have very specific entrance information.
5. The Williamsburg Hotel
Dreaming of private cabanas, a lush ambiance, and delicious beverages for an ultimate rooftop experience?
Head to The Williamsburg Hotel for an afternoon lounging at their stylish rooftop pool that overlooks the city.
Address: 96 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Entrance Policy: Hotel guests have priority pool access. Everyone must reserve a time slot on their website.
6. Dream Downtown
I’ve never spent a day at the Dream Downtown’s rooftop pool, but if it’s anything like their NYE party I went to, I’m guessing this is one fun pool.
They’ve got a reputation for having famous DJs play, so you know this is going to be the perfect spot for an afternoon of fun in the sun.
Address: 355 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011
Entrance Policy: Access is only available to hotel guests. Starting at 11am guests must be 21+.
7. Somewhere Nowhere
For a unique NYC experience, visit Somewhere Nowhere – a rooftop pool and lounge with nightclub vibes.
With lots of cabanas and a 360 degree view of the city from the 39th floor, this spot is for a perfect day or night in the city.
Address: 112 W 25th St, New York, NY 10001
Entrance Policy: Must be 21+ and reservations are strongly suggested.
8. Royalton Park Avenue
If you’re looking for a view of the Empire State Building, don’t miss the heated rooftop pool at Royalton Park Avenue Hotel.
It’s on the 20th floor and has some seriously Instagram worthy views of the Empire State Building towering over the pool.
Address: 420 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10016
Entrance Policy: Hotel guests of all ages are allowed in the pool area until 4pm. After that, it’s 21+. Non-guests can try to score a reservation online.
9. The Ravel Hotel
The Summer Club at The Ravel Hotel looks absolutely adorable.
Heading here this summer is at the top of my NYC bucket list, thanks to their gorgeous retro poolside cabanas and lounges.
Address: 8-08 Queens Plaza S, Queens, NY 11101
Entrance Policy: Email for a reservation.
10. SIXTY LES
With an Andy Warhol photo at the bottom of the pool, you just know SIXTY LES is going to be a cool pool to chill at.
Oh, and did I mention they have Blue Ribbon Sushi on their poolside menu?
This place is seriously a heavenly rooftop pool option!
Address: 190 Allen St, New York, NY 10002
Entrance Policy: Make a reservation to enjoy either a daybed or lounger by emailing here.
Rooftop Pool Experiences
Exclusive Cabanas
Imagine relaxing in a private cabana on a luxurious rooftop pool in NYC.
It sounds heavenly, right?
These exclusive spaces provide the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the city views around you.
With comfortable seating, amazing lighting, and an exquisite atmosphere, you’ll wish you could relax like this every day.
Just remember to book your cabana bed early. They always book up crazy fast.
In fact, I have yet to experience a private cabana in New York because I’m always so last-minute making plans during the summer.
Loungers
Reserving a lounge chair is a must whenever you’re hitting up a pool for the day.
Trust me, I’ve made the mistake one too many times of thinking I’ll be fine without a chair and always regret it.
It’s worth whatever the price is, just go for it.
And just like the cabana beds, reserve your spot early, even if you’re a hotel guest, because rooftop lounge chairs get really hard to find in the heat of summer in New York City.
Pool Bars and Cocktail Bars
A rooftop pool experience isn’t complete without a refreshing cocktail from the pool bar.
Most rooftop pools in New York have expert bartenders who can mix and match ingredients to create the perfect summer drink.
Just remember to balance out those cocktails with water, or a plate of fries so that you can keep the party going all afternoon long.
Day Pass Access and Reservations
Most hotels with rooftop pools require that you be a guest in order to have access, since spending the day at a rooftop pool in NYC is a popular summer activity.
Lucky for you, if a couple of places allow non-guests to make reservations.
Both hotel guests and non-hotel guests should make reservations for lounge chairs and cabana beds ahead of time, especially on the weekends.
Reservation Tips
Keep in mind that demand for these rooftop havens can be high, especially during the summer months.
You absolutely need to book your spot early. You can book in advance by visiting the hotel’s website or contacting them directly.
Wrapping Things Up
I hope you’ve found the perfect NYC rooftop pool for your relaxing day of fun in the sun.
Let me know in the comments below which spot you’re most looking forward to checking out, or anywhere you’ve found that you think deserves a spot on the list!
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