Having access to splash about in a New York City rooftop pool is an absolute necessity to survive the summer (although yes, they're also borderline impossible to get into).
Because even when you do find access to one, they're more oftentimes than not way overcrowded. But beggars can't really be choosers, especially in this city, right? Right.
So when it finally does reach those stifling summer degrees that it's bound to hit, anything will do.
That being said, we've come up with a trendy lil' list of the 5 hottest NYC rooftop pools you just got to take a dip into this summer.
(Now all you have to do is start making plans to get up top there-- one way or another.)
1. The James New York (27 Grand Street)
thecasualclassic One of my favorite spots. @jimmyatthejames #nyc #newyork #sunset #rooftop #manhattan #soho #thejimmy #spring #blogger #nycblogger
Well, this rooftop pool definitely isn’t the easiest one on the list to get into, but it's definitely worth the effort.
See, if you do manage to make it up to this rooftop, you can expect their DJ to play the absolute hottest summer songs, all the while you take in stunning 360-degree views of this city with a delicious drink in hand.
Heaven, we know.
2. The Beach at The Dream Hotel (355 West 16th Street)
plus_altra The only way to...Dream #nyc #dreamhotelnyc #dreamhoteldowntown #dreamhotel #Manhattan #NewYorkCity #girlsweekend #bdayparty #celebrate #clubbing #besthotels #dreamhotels #roadtrips #travel #bff #chelseamarket
This is a great spot to spend a sunny Saturday at... that is, if you're willing to pay a hefty price.
The general public (that would be you) can bypass the guests-only policy if a cabana is rented out for the day, and yeah, you guessed it, there's an astronomical fee tied to it (depending on the amount of people and day of the week).
We suggest making friends with a few hotel guests if you’re that desperate for a dunk-- which we know you definitely will be during these humid summer months.
3. Piscine at Hotel Americano (518 West 27th Street)
Although it’s not exactly open to the public during the day, it is open from 6 p.m. on for sunset cocktails by the pool.
Situated in Chelsea with stunningly spectacular views, this is definitely a pool you should swing by this summer. (That is, if you can finagle your way up there.)
4. Soho House (29-35 9th Avenue)
warrenchiuart Concrete jungle pool party - Soho House view from Plunge #nycartist #nycart #vancouverart #vancityart #vancouverartist #nyc #sohohouse #gansevoort #poolparty #rooftop #rooftoppool #sundayfunday #fromonerooftoptoanother #concretejungle #plunge #sohohousepool
Unless you're a coveted member (or have a best friend who is) here, we wish you the very best of luck with this hotspot.
Bottom line is, there’s just no getting into this place without a little bit of luck-- but, if you do manage to get up there somehow, you should definitely enjoy the pool and do some serious people-watching.
5. Equinox Printing House (421 Hudson Street)
If you don't have a membership at Equinox, well, now might be the time to change that.
The Printing House in West Village is the most exclusive club in the city. Why? Because they have a huge rooftop equipped with a big ol' pool, lounge chairs, and sofas.
Really, what better way to finally get yourself to the gym!?
Check out Why Just Drink on an NYC Rooftop When You Can Eat, Booze, and Watch a Movie?

