The unofficial start of summer is upon us and in New York City, our eyes are pointing to the sky. What are we talking about? Rooftop pools with a view! Our correspondent Julie Chang Murphy has curated a list of the 8 best rooftop hotel pools with stunning city views that you absolutely have to swim in NYC right now.
Where are the best must-swim rooftop hotel pools in NYC?
The conventional wisdom is that there’s nothing like a day at the beach. But there is the rare breed that could do without all the schlepping in the hot sun and wayward sand particles in every crevice. Not to mention, aggressive food-stealing seagulls. Other than that, the beach is so serene and relaxing, isn’t it?
For those who want a day off to enjoy the water within the comforts and luxuries of New York City, forget the beach. Save yourself from the traffic and book a staycation or daycation at a chic hotel with a stunning pool. It’s one of our favorite micro-luxuries during the summer months.
The best rooftop hotel pools that you absolutely have to swim in NYC right now.
While these might not be the swim-up-to-a-bar pools with grottos and multiple waterfalls characteristic of tropical resorts — we’d argue that swimming with the city skyline in the background is as glamorous as any island setting. And just as dazzling.
For a romantic weekend, family-friendly activity, or a solo getaway, you can’t beat taking a swim (or just lounging with a good book) atop a rooftop pool overlooking Manhattan. Many of these hotels offer a day rate/pool pass if you only have an afternoon to spare. Be sure to check out sites like Resort Pass or Daycation App to check availability and make a reservation. Here are the top 9 must-know, must-see, must swim-in hotel pools in NYC.
best rooftop hotel pools that you absolutely have to swim in NYC right now
Where are the best 8 must swim in rooftop hotel pools in NYC?
1. Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
Designed by local artists using native greenery, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is certainly an oasis from the concrete jungle. But we think it has the best of both worlds.
From the rooftop plunge pool, staycationers enjoy unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline and even the Statue of Liberty. It’s a perch that is hard to beat. There is also a rooftop bar offering light bites, handcrafted cocktails, and local beers.
2. TWA Hotel
For vintage high glamour, you’ll want to check out the TWA Hotel in Eero Saarinen’s landmark 1962 TWA Flight Center at JFK Airport. The massive rooftop infinity pool overlooks the runways so you can watch as planes embark into the sky while sipping on aviation-inspired cocktails, of course.
This is one of the only outdoor pools still operating in colder months as it’s heated up to 100 degrees so it’s more like a “pool-cuzzi.” Don’t miss out on the museum inside the hotel which feature exhibits on TWA, the Jet Age and the midcentury modern design movement.
3. The William Vale
The William Vale in Williamsburg boasts the longest outdoor hotel pool in the city with dreamy private poolside cabanas and daybeds. The Vale Terrace itself is 5,000 sq. ft. of immaculately landscaped open-air venues with a bar offering comfort food, wine and specialty cocktails.
The pool is only available for hotel guests which isn’t a hard sell — we’ll gladly rest our heads for a night or two in one of the chic, modernly appointed rooms in the hippest neighborhood in NYC.
4. ModernHaus Soho (formerly The James New York)
Fresh air options abound at ModernHaus Soho. Atop the sleek, art-centric hotel sits an expansive 11,000 square feet of outdoor space—the most per room in New York City. The rooftop pool is a tranquil oasis where you can admire the city at skyscraper level.
After your dip, sip cocktails at The Back Bar or dine alfresco at Veranda by Michelin-starred chef George Mendes. And we’d be remiss not to mention Jimmy’s, the famous rooftop bar and neighborhood staple that ModernHaus SoHo has brought back to its full glory.
5. McCarren Hotel
In the heart of trendy Williamsburg, the pool at McCarren Hotel stands out as it is the largest heated outdoor pool in the city. There’s a fun and eclectic vibe here from the chic rooftop bar to its modern rooms with luxury amenities like rain showers and Frette linens.
It’s definitely a see-and-be-seen party spot so bring your best designer suit and Funboy pool float.
6. Dream Hotel Downtown
As close to the beach as you can get in downtown Manhattan. Aptly named “The Beach at Dream Downtown,” the generous deck is comprised of 800 sq. ft. of imported sand, Cote D’Azur-inspired chaise lounges, and a stunning glass-bottom heated swimming pool.
If you miss it this summer, don’t worry — it’s open year round. There is also an indoor/outdoor cafe for casual, quick bites and drinks.
7. LES Sixty
Definitely the most unique pool on the list — where else can take a dip with Andy Warhol peering up at you? The pool is surrounded by suitably mod seating amid the cool-kid energy of the Lower East Side.
Guests can also enjoy full beverage service and small plates from Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya. Given that sushi boosts your chances for a second date by 170 percent, we think this could be the ultimate first date spot!
8. Hotel Gansevoort
The once hippest hotel in the city isn’t old news anymore. The Meatpacking District hotel just underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation and rebrand.
Think first class art collection, luxe design, innovative technology, and new food and beverage offerings. And the heated rooftop pool, open year-round with panoramic views, is still pretty stunning.
9. QC NY SPA
While these infinity pools overlooking lower Manhattan, right by the water, aren’t technically a hotel pool, we’d be remiss not to mention their presence on Governor’s Island. They’re heated with underwater hydro seats and loungers to massage the body and will be open year-round.
It’s also connected to a wellness spa with massages and treatments, as well as the Italian-inspired bar, Sunset Aperitivo, where guests can enjoy a glass of prosecco and small bites.
best must-swim rooftop hotel pools in NYC
High above New York City, these are the 8 best rooftop boutique hotel pools with views that you absolutely have to swim in NYC right now.
Because even though the island of Manhattan is surrounded by water, we’ll opt to splash around on the rooftop, just to be safe. What do you say, dear reader? Ready to dive into the deep end?
