Youngsters know how to have fun at the Jackie Robinson Pool in Harlem/Joyce for News
JACKIE ROBINSON
W. 146th St. and Bradhurst Ave.BEST QUALITIES: This
gem of a pool is shaded by majestic trees and sports a fabulous water play area with huge fountains that look like frogs and palm trees.ROOM TO IMPROVE: The 4-to-7 p.m. session often turns this oasis into a zoo.
TIP: Swim in the first session from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
LASKER
110th St. and Lenox Ave.BEST QUALITIES: The big, circular pool sits at the north end of Central Park. Swimmers have a great view and the pool’s waterfalls make it lots of fun.
ROOM TO IMPROVE: Inattentive lifeguards.
TIP: No-nonsense security check to enter the pool area. If you swim in a T-shirt, make sure it’s white.
THOMAS JEFFERSON
E. 112 St. and First Ave.BEST QUALITIES: The Olympic-sized pool never seems crowded.
ROOM TO IMPROVE: No deep end; no diving.
TIP: Lying on the concrete pool deck is rough. Bring plenty of towels for comfier lounging.
WAGNER
E. 124th St. between First and Second Aves.BEST QUALITIES: The pretty beach mural creates an escape; staff is extra-friendly.
ROOM TO IMPROVE: The small pool is split into two sections around 12:30 p.m. when the day camps arrive.
TIP: Come during the second session from 4 to 7 p.m.
MARCUS GARVEY
125th St. and Fifth Ave.BEST QUALITIES: This second-floor rooftop pool is perfectly tucked away from the hectic city streets below.
ROOM TO IMPROVE: Yikes! Bugs in the lockers.
TIP: Lap lanes are best from 11a.m. to 3 p.m.
SHELTERING ARMS
W. 129th St. and Amsterdam Ave.BEST QUALITIES: Friendly staff and attentive lifeguard.
ROOM TO IMPROVE: View of a bus depot.
TIP: Tucked away on a side street, it can be tricky to find. It’s across from Manhattanville Junior High.
HIGHBRIDGE
W. 173rd St. and Amsterdam Ave.BEST QUALITIES: Two extra-large pools: one for kids and a deep one for serious swimmers.
ROOM TO IMPROVE: No refuge from relentless sun.
TIP: Bring a hat and plenty of sunscreen.
Read the whole article: Takin’ a dip in Manhattan [NYDN}
For hours all pools are open, visit: www.nycgovparks.org/sub_things_to_do/facilities/af_pools.html
Related: At Busy South Bx Pool Ex Gang Members Keep the Peace [NYT]
D. Bell
July 30, 2008
Courtney: Good catch! I didn’t even notice that they omitted that one. Not sure if it was only because they were focusing on city pools or if this wasn’t a comprehensive list. But yes, Riverbank is run by the state and offers an indoor and outdoor pool.
courtney
July 30, 2008
What about the pool at Riverbank State park?