When Do NYC Pools Open? The Eternal Question
Ah, summer in the city. The sidewalks are a sizzling oven, your apartment is a human terrarium, and all you can think about is plunging into a cool, refreshing pool. But when, oh when, do these aquatic oases open their doors (or should we say gates)? Let’s dive in.
The Annual Pool Panic
Every year, it’s the same story. The temperature hits 85 degrees, humidity levels rival those of a rainforest, and New Yorkers collectively lose their minds. "When do the pools open?!" becomes the city’s most pressing question, right after "Where can I get a good slice of pizza?"
Fear not, fellow heat-stricken humans. The good news is that NYC’s public pools typically open their gates around late May or early June. It's like the city throwing you a giant, watery pity party for having to endure those long, cold winters.
Pool Etiquette 101 (Because Let’s Be Honest, We Need It)
Before we dive into the deep end of pool-related excitement, let's quickly cover some pool etiquette. Because nothing ruins a good swim faster than someone doing cannonballs in the kiddie pool or hogging all the lounge chairs.
- Towel Territory: Claiming a spot with your towel is fair game, but don’t be that person who leaves it unattended for hours.
- Quiet Zone: Some people actually want to relax by the pool. Keep the noise level down, especially during nap time (yours or someone else’s).
- No Food or Drink: Unless it’s bottled water, keep the snacks and cocktails away from the pool. Trust us, no one wants to dodge a rogue french fry.
How to Make the Most of Your Pool Day
Now that you know when the pools open and how to behave once you're there, let's talk about maximizing your pool time.
- Early Bird Gets the Lounge Chair: If you want a prime spot by the pool, be prepared to rise and shine.
- Pack Smart: Sunscreen, towel, sunglasses, and a good book are essentials. A waterproof phone case is optional but highly recommended.
- Embrace the Water: Whether you're a lap swimmer, a floaty enthusiast, or just looking to cool off, make the most of your time in the water.
How To... Pool Edition
- How to find a pool near you: Use the NYC Parks website to locate a pool in your neighborhood.
- How to survive the pool line: Bring a good book or podcast, and try to arrive early in the day.
- How to avoid sunburn: Apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours.
- How to make new friends: Strike up a conversation with someone lounging nearby.
- How to relax and enjoy: Let go of your worries and soak up the sun (safely, of course).