Cooling off in New York City

Look out New York City - the temperatures are climbing!  We’re looking at 90°+ degree weather this week and you’re gonna want to keep cool.  

Here are some of your options…

Pools

Head to NYC Parks summer outdoor pools. There are over 50 free public pools across the boroughs, so there is bound to be one in your neighborhood. The majority of the pools are 3-4 ft deep so even if you can't swim you can stand and stay cool.  Outdoor pool hours are from 11:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m., with a break for pool cleaning between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. This page on nycgovparks gives you full the run down on what you need to know about going to a public pool from what to wear, what to bring and what not to bring.

Beaches

Jones Beach is a family favorite with miles of sandy beaches.  Even if you don’t have a car you can get to the beach through the LIRR and a shuttle bus.  

Jacob Riis Park Beach in The Rockaways is about a 30 minute subway ride from Manhattan and is kept relatively clean, thanks to the National Park Service. Did you know its NYC surfer's beach?

Great Kills Park in Staten Island is a little less well known so the beaches are less crowded and more private. The MTA will get you there, via the Staten Island Ferry.

Cooling Centers

When the heat index is predicted to be dangerously high, New York City opens cooling centers in air-conditioned public community centers, senior centers, and public libraries to offer people relief from the heat.  Individuals who have no ready access to a cool environment, and particularly those at risk for heat-related illness, should use the cooling centers during a heat wave. You can call 311 for the location near you.