On Friday, June 27th, NYC public pools officially opened for the 2025 summer season, including the new, highly-anticipated Gottesman Pool in Central Park.
Part of the $160 million Davis Center project, this facility replaces the Lasker Rink and provides new ways to utilize a once-forgotten space. (And it just so happens its grand opening decided to perfectly align with NYC’s heat wave.)
Betsy Smith, President and CEO of the Central Park Conservancy said, “What once was a beloved but aging facility is now a beautiful, welcoming place that celebrates Central Park and welcomes New Yorkers to swim, skate, learn and connect – all year round.”
The only problem? All of NYC is dying to venture uptown for a dip.
Gottesman Pool tips and alternatives
TikTok videos began circulating detailing extensive lines at the Gottesman Pool, some reportedly stretching upwards of three hours. Even though it’s said to be the city’s eighth-largest public pool, which holds up to 1,000 swimmers, a three-hour-long wait is certainly no joke, especially when the heat feels opressive.
@news2tunes #nyc#cebtralpark#myperogative #pool ♬ My Prerogative – Bobby Brown
If you’re keen on taking a dip in the new facility, you’ll have to plan your outing wisely: the pool is open daily from 11am-7pm, and cleaning takes place from 3-4pm. You’ll likely want to get there at least an hour ahead of schedule in order to get a good spot on the line. Alternatively, you can also opt for a time that might have less crowds later in the evening.
Should the wait feel a bit extensive, there are other options within the area:
- The Frederick Douglass Pool on Amsterdam Avenue (Between 100 and 102nd Streets)
- Abe Lincoln Pool (5th Ave & East 135th Street – 50′ x 30′ x 3′)
- Marcus Garvey Pool (124th St and Fifth Ave)
- Van Cortlandt Park Pool, Bronx (242nd Street and Broadway)
Be sure to also scope out some of our favorite rooftop pools if you’re looking to cool off with a view to boot. No matter where you end up, just remember to bring the SPF and a towel. (Public pools will require you to bring a lock to store your items.)