UES Gem: John Jay Public Swimming Pool

Have you been to John Jay pool? Located on the East River at 77/78th Street in John Jay Park, the outdoor pool was opened in 1940, and it feels like an almost-secret hidden gem.

A lot of people scoff when I tell them how much I love New York City public pools, but I feel like they’re missing out. It’s the ideal place to cool off when the weather turns hot and humid. Plus, it’s free, clean, and has lap swimming.

Last Friday, a friend and I went to John Jay and it was lovely. We got to the pool about 10:30 am and were the third people in line; a good thing because due to the lifeguard shortage, the pool was allowing only 75-ish people and was at 1/3 capacity. That said, we were able to snag a couple of chaise lounges and have plenty of space to dip into the cool water.

John Jay pool overlooks the East River and is surrounded by gorgeous city views. The crowd is mostly made up of families and older folks (a few that were wearing lipstick while they swam!), who all seem to know each other.

One thing to note: New York City public pools have a mind-boggling set of rules: You must bring a padlock for your belongings. You can bring a towel, sunscreen, a white t-shirt, a water bottle, and books or magazines. You cannot bring a cell phone onto the pool deck, or any food.

John Jay’s olympic- and intermediate-sized outdoor pools will remain open through Sunday, September 11.