The best outdoor pools in New York

John Jay Pool and Recreation

Schedule: June 27-Sept. 7

Hours: Open daily 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Cost: Free

Size: 145-foot swimming pool plus an 8-foot-deep diving pool

The scene: Situated on the East River, John Jay Park's tree-lined outdoor pool provides a beautiful backdrop for sunbathers or lap swimmers. Lots of tourists like this public pool, too, so a crowd is inevitable on nicer days.

(77th St. near York Ave., 212-794-6566, nycgovparks.org/parks/johnjaypark; 6 train to 79th St.)