Summer in the city gets hot, fast. When the concrete jungle starts feeling like an oven, there’s nothing better than a refreshing dip to cool off.
Lucky for us, the Gottesman Pool at the Davis Center is now open for it’s second season. Managed by NYC Parks, this incredible facility is the city’s newest public pool. It offers completely free swimming to everyone right in the beautiful heart of Central Park.
A massive oasis in the park
The Gottesman Pool first opened its doors in June 2025. It was the crowning jewel of the $160 million Davis Center project near the Harlem Meer.
If you remember the old Lasker Pool and Rink, this is a major upgrade. The new pool boasts an organically designed oval shape that measures a staggering 285 by 120 feet.
That makes it larger than a standard Olympic-size pool and easily one of the biggest public swimming spots in all of New York City.
With enough space to accommodate up to 1,000 swimmers, it’s the perfect spot for community swims, aquatic programs, or just floating the day away.
Designed with nature in mind
The architecture here is seriously stunning. Designed by Susan T. Rodriguez Architecture | Design and Mitchell Giurgola Architects, the facility seamlessly blends into the park’s lush landscape.
It beautifully reconnects the Harlem Meer with the North Woods. Plus, it’s packed with all the essential amenities you need for a comfortable day out, including lockers, restrooms, and picnic areas.
It is also not just a summer destination. The space is built for year-round use. It transforms into an ice-skating rink in the winter and the “Harlem Oval” multi-use turf field during the spring and fall.
Everything you need to know before you go
The 2026 swim season officially kicked off on June 27 and runs through September 13. Access is totally free, and you don’t even need an ID to get in.
The pool hosts a variety of free and low-cost community programs throughout the season. You can check out “Learn to Swim” lessons, wellness classes, and other seasonal events through the NYC Parks website.
A quick heads-up: the pool gets incredibly busy. You will definitely want to arrive early on peak summer days to secure your spot. Also, the pool closes daily from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM for cleaning, so plan your visit around that afternoon break.
Finally, keep the dress code in mind. You must wear a plain white shirt on the pool deck, and alcohol is strictly prohibited.
The details
📍 Mid-park between 106th and 108th Streets (Accessible via paths from Malcolm X Blvd/Lenox Ave and 110th St)
📅 June 27 – September 13, 2026
🕧 Daily from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Closed 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM for cleaning)
🎟️ Free
