Splish Splash: New York's Precious Pools

23rd St at the Hudson River, New York, NY 10011 (map)

Serious swimmers can dip into the 45-foot-long indoor pool at this mega-sports complex on the Hudson. Anyone is entitled to purchase three separate day passes ($50 each) per calendar year on any given date for access to gym facilities, including the rock climbing wall, the pool and the outdoor sun deck overlooking the river. If you plan to make a habit of visiting consider buying a membership (which costs approximately $150 per month) to take advantage of all of the above whenever you want.

29-35 Ninth Ave, New York, NY 10014 (map)

Membership to this exclusive Meatpacking District clubhouse is granted through an application process that requires multiple referrals, letters of recommendation, board approval and an annual fee of about $1,500. But even those lucky enough to belong are only allowed to bring one or two guests up to the infamous rooftop pool, depending on how crowded it is. Once there, lounge chairs are tough to snag since there's limited space along the perimeter of the small pool (15 feet by 32 feet). But if you're lucky enough to be invited, it's a fun scene on a sunny day no matter how congested it may get.

190 Allen St, New York, NY 10002 (map)

The pool at this chic downtown hotel is located on the third floor deck, and it's only 3.5 feet deep. So although it might not be a good place to train for the Olympics, it’s perfect for wading without having to fret about drowning. Unfortunately, pool access is for overnight guests, and a room will set you back about $200-$300. The only way to circumvent the room requirement is to get your hands on a membership card to Above Allen, the hotel's posh rooftop lounge. A card grants you permission to use the pool as long as you make a reservation, but only a select group of in-the-know types received one. Our suggestion? Find one, and befriend them.

19TH St & 23RD Dr, Long Island City, NY 11105 (map)

Built in 1936 for the Olympic Team time trials, this mammoth mecca for swimmers in Queens includes three pools: one Olympic size, one for diving and a third for wading. Each is open to all New York City residents, providing everyone some choice when it comes to taking a break from the oppressive summer heat.

E 77TH & Cherokee Pl, New York, NY 10021 (map)

Outdoor swimming is free for all at this Upper East Side recreation center from 11am to 7pm daily, so you can suit up and dive in without putting a strain on your wallet. And if you want to use the fitness equipment, the annual rate for membership is a reasonable $75.

125 W 14th St, New York City, NY 10011 (map)

Membership may be required for unlimited use of the Y, but at this Union Square area outpost a day pass is also an option. The indoor pool is open between 5:30am and 11pm, Monday through Friday, and 7am to 8pm on weekends. Although members get priority for swim classes, non-members can pay a nominal fee to take lessons as well.

155 Bay St, Brooklyn, NY 11231 (map)

There's no fee to swim at this outdoor Brooklyn pool, open every summer from late June to Labor Day. Motivate early in the morning for laps (7am-8:30am), or head over later on for general swim (11am-2:45pm, and 4pm-6:45pm). Weather permitting, the pool stays open late (7pm-8:30pm), just in case you feel like sticking around 'til you're good and prune-like.