New Yorkers are constantly looking for an escape from the Manhattan heat. Summer in the city can be brutal to say the least. Unfortunately, most apartment buildings do not have private pools, so the next best option is to go to a hotel rooftop. I have created a list of my favorite places to keep cool:
The Beach at Dream Downtown One of my favorite hotels in the whole city. Super modern with an organic vibe. The pool at this hotel is called, “The Beach” as they designed it to literally look like a beach with sand and beach chairs. Right next to the pool is a taco restaurant with a built in bar where you can order drinks. If you aren’t staying at the hotel just come in a bathing suit as if you already are a guest (and come early). The staff are young and friendly so they most likely will not give you a problem. If they do just bring a $20 to tip them. P.S. Day passes are also available for the hotel starting at $65.
Gansevoort Meatpacking Talk about a view!!! This is one of the most spectacular views of the Meatpacking District you will get – all while taking a dip. The vibes here are much different in that they are more lively. There are parties here every single weekend with fabulous people. If you are looking to party after you swim I suggest bringing a change of clothes as people come pretty dressed up. The music here is also fantastic, so definitely not a low key spot. Once again if you aren’t a hotel guest expect to tip the lifeguard, who lets guests in and out of the pool, at least $20.
William Vale Another amazing view! While this hotel may be located in Brooklyn, it is still is one of my favorites. The crowd is young and they always play great music. Plus, they serve cocktails and food poolside. Recently, the William Vale opened their pool to the public so you no longer have to be a guest at the hotel to use their pool amenities. However, their day passes can be a bit pricy on the weekends, so once again just be prepared to tip the at the door. Honestly, have confidence and act like you are a guest; you will be fine.
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge 1 Hotel has two locations in New York but my favorite is their Brooklyn Bridge one. The hotel was just recently built and it is absolutely gorgeous. 1 Hotel, similar to Dream Downtown, is a mix between modern and nature. If you go hang poolside you will have an amazing view of the Brooklyn Bridge! They also have a bar right near by so it really can’t get any better. When entering the hotel pool they are not very strict, so if you act like a guest you will be fine; otherwise, be prepared to tip at door. You can also contact the hotel for day passes.
Soho House Okay, so this is the trickier one to get into but it probably is my favorite on the list. Soho House is a club for members only; however, if you know a member you will be able to get in (so ask your friends!). Soho House is known for throwing amazing pool parties and just great parties overall throughout the year. If you act like a hotel guest and tip at the pool door you may be able to gain access to their amenities. Love this location because they serve poolside and the crowd here is ridiculously chic.
McCarren Hotel & PoolThis very popular pool, located in Williamsburg, is one of the hottest spots to keep cool in the summer heat. On a hot day this place will fill up pretty fast, so make sure you get there early to grab a chair! A weekend day pass to the pool runs $65, and that rate goes down to $55 Mondays through Thursdays, with non-guest swim hours stretching from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. However, I never worry about prices because I don’t pay. As long as you act confident you should have no problem.
