There’s nothing quite like plunging into a cooling New York rooftop pool on a scorching summer day. accompanied with a cocktail in hand as you soak in New York Skyline. And, in New York the summer certainly turns up the heat! Fans of the TV show, ‘Sex in the City’ will remember that famous scene where Samantha leads the charge, sneakily entering Soho House just for a refreshing poolside retreat. Well, you won’t need a membership for these recommendations. But you may need to be holidaying in the hotels or purchasing a pool pass to access them. Every rooftop pool has it’s own rules about public and guest access so even if you don’t pick one of these, ensure you don’t get caught out and check.
Also, fair warning—these rooftop pools are not exactly sprawling expanses. These aren’t pools where you’d lounge all day as if on a vacation; unless, of course, you strike gold and secure a prime spot first thing in the morning or book a spot. In this city where space is a luxury and pool sizes are modest, sun loungers become precious commodities. Best utilised for those seeking a much needed refreshing respite after a day of pounding the pavement. Whether you are a local commuting or a tourist here when the temperature hits 40 you will be googling rooftop pool! So here are four of the city’s best rooftop pools from exclusive hotel guests only to one that is fully for the public.
Somewhere Nowhere – Rooftop Pool
Hotel: Renaissance NY Chelsea Hotel Pool access: Public – not part of the hotel
Size of pool: Small
Sunbed area: Small but lots of areas to relax in
Bar on the roof? Yes
Rooftop pool round up: Somewhere Nowhere is a stunning rooftop bar and pool set in the heart of Chelsea. However It does seems to have polarising reviews which I discuss here but for the purposes of their pool there are some things you need to know. While it is on top of the Renaissance NY Chelsea Hotel, it is not a part of the hotel chain. So do not book this hotel thinking you will get automatic access – the only advantage is you don’t have to move much to plop in the pool! Secondly, to access the pool you need to buy a pass. You will see from the pool pass site that this is very much marketed as beach club daycation vibes. I found it more lazy rooftop bar vibes but I didn’t book. I struck lucky on a spontaneous visit. It was a week day, in September, late afternoon and very quiet. So whilst I wouldn’t advise it but you could try that if sold out. Read more about the bar here.
Jimmy’s Rooftop Pool
Hotel: ModernHaus Hotel, Soho Pool Access: Part guests, part public
Size of pool: Small
Sunbed area: Small
Bar on the roof? Yes
Rooftop pool round up: Jimmy’s Rooftop Pool is set in Soho and was this was one of of the original rooftop bars in New York. Set a bit further away from the main hustle and bustle but so worth it for the views and vibe. What a rooftop pool. This has it all – including frozen salted martinis! Plus as a hotel guest you have the pool Monday – Friday until 4PM and Saturday and Sunday until 2PM exclusively. Everyone else are able to book after then or walk in. Read more about the bar here.
Harriet’s Rooftop pool
Hotel: One Brooklyn Hotel Pool Access: Hotel Guests only
Size of pool: Small
Sunbed area: Small – medium
Bar on the roof? Yes
Rooftop pool round up: Harriet’s rooftop pool is based in Brooklyn with one of the most enviable views of Manhattan. This is only for hotel guests and they are super strict about access – which is great for guests. But less so to get a good picture of it! The area is quite small and the pool is smaller than it seems on the website. However unless you are wanting to do laps it is the perfect pool for posing in with the best views of New York opposite you. The rooftop bar is open to all. Read more about the bar here.
TWA Rooftop Pool & Bar
Hotel: TWA Hotel Pool Access: Public & guests – but booking needed
Size of pool: Medium
Sunbed area: Medium
Bar on the roof? Yes
Rooftop pool round up: The TWA Rooftop Pool is an amazing aviation dream…. swimming under the stars as the plans soar right in front of you. This is one of the most unique rooftop pools I’ve been to. Set at the airport hotel, TWA, with time slots for arrival – just like when boarding an aircraft! They have a very comprehensive guide to time slots, price and how to book for both guests and non guests. on their website so be sure to pre book as it gets popular and space is limited. This is your sign your holiday has started New Yorkers. Or if you are heading home then you get to have an awesome lasting memory of the city that doesn’t sleep! Check in for an hour or a night this is worth it for the novelty value at least! Plane spotter or not! Read more here.