“The true New Yorker secretly believes that people living anywhere else have to be, in some sense, kidding.” - John Updike

However, there’s an irony in Updike’s statement, especially considering his own love of swimming—a pastime that’s not as easily enjoyed in a city where pool access can be as elusive as a quiet moment in Times Square. While Updike appreciated the vibrancy and unique energy of New York, his fondness for swimming highlights a challenge many New Yorkers face: finding a place to swim in a city that’s more famous for its skyscrapers than its swimming pools. The true New Yorker may embrace the city’s hustle and bustle, but the true New York swimmer knows that navigating the city’s limited and often crowded pool options requires patience, creativity, and sometimes, a bit of luck.

New York City, a sprawling urban environment known for its vibrant lifestyle and dense population, poses unique challenges for fitness enthusiasts, particularly swimmers. Despite being surrounded by water, the city offers limited public lap swimming opportunities, forcing many to navigate a patchwork of options that include public pools, private clubs and residences, and college facilities. As private construction continues to outpace public recreational investments, New Yorkers are increasingly turning to alternative solutions to meet their swimming needs. This article delves into the challenges of lap swimming in NYC, the rise of private facilities, and the best options available for swimmers, including some lesser-known gems and future developments that might offer hope.

The Public Pool Conundrum

Astoria Park Pool in Queens, the largest public pool in the city, offers a vast space for recreational swimming but has limited lap swimming hours. This iconic pool, known for its stunning views of the RFK Bridge, is not only a place for summer fun but also a site of historical significance, having hosted the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for swimming in 1936. Despite its grandeur, the pool can become crowded, especially during peak hours, making it challenging for serious swimmers to find uninterrupted time for laps.

Riverbank State Park is a standout option in Manhattan, offering a year round 50-meter shallow pool with eight lanes and moveable bulkhead for short and long-course lap swimming, along with a 25-meter outdoor pool available in the summer. Lap swim hours are available year-round, from 6:30 AM to 8:15 AM for adult lap swim, though a Lap Swim Card is required during these hours. Despite the challenges of obtaining a card during the summer, Riverbank remains a favorite among dedicated swimmers, thanks to its expansive facilities and scenic views.

These public options, while valuable, often leave swimmers wanting more—especially during peak times when the pools are overwhelmed with visitors. During the warm summer months, priority is given to keeping young kids cool during the day, and a on-going shortage of lifeguards curtails available lap swimming hours.

Private Facilities: A Pricey but Reliable Option

As public pools remain limited and overcrowded, many New Yorkers have turned to private facilities to meet their swimming needs. **Equinox**, one of the city’s premier fitness clubs, has four locations with lap pools, such as **Equinox Hudson Yards**, which boasts an indoor salt water lap pool and a seasonal outdoor rooftop lounging pool. Memberships can range from $200 to $405 per month, making it a steep investment but one that guarantees access to high-quality amenities. Day and guest passes may be available. Swimmers can also take advantage of their public spa treatments, which also include access to the other facilities. American Express Platinum holders, benefit from a $300 annual credit.

John Jay College Pool: A Solid Alternative

For those looking for a more affordable and flexible option, the John Jay College Pool offers a great alternative. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this recently renovated facility features 5 wide 25-yard lanes with diving blocks and both shallow and deep ends. The pool is well-equipped with pull buoys, kick boards, paddles, and fins available for swimmers to use.

Personalized Coaching and Advanced Analysis

For swimmers looking to improve their technique, personalized coaching is also available at John Jay College. I offer one-on-one sessions, including underwater video analysis, EO SwimBetter sensor data, and tailored technique and conditioning programs. You can book sessions directly through my website at Train Daly Swim Coaching, or contact me for additional details via this contact form.

The Hopeful Future: Plus Pool in the East River

Additional Resources and Mapping Your Swim

Lap swimming in New York City

For those looking to take their swimming to the next level, personalized coaching sessions are available to help you achieve your goals, whether in public or private pools.