Where you can cool off

during this scorching summer in New York

It's either Antarctica or the Sahara here. The dripping blush and mascara confirm that it's currently desert-hot, and thus summer. And that means that walking a few blocks feels eerily similar to a walk underwater in warm water. Especially the humidity is absolutely unbearable here. But complaining doesn't change anything. ‘It has to be more pragmatic,’ I decide while sweating and stumbling through the streets in search of coolness.

Armed with a laptop, in an ice-cold office and with an even colder watermelon juice, I have started the search. Where are the places where we can catch our breath and cool off? Quite a challenge, because most access points to pool-like cooling spots have a “private” sign or you have to pay exorbitant monthly fees. But as I said: we are going to think in solutions. So some online searching and offline asking here and there has led to this list of blissful cooling spots that I will definitely check out myself.

Bar by the waterfront

For a quiet and refreshing afternoon, you are at the Frying Pan completely at the wrong address. It's mega crowded here (especially on weekends), but the Frying Pan always guarantees floating on the Hudson with plenty of beer and fun. This old ship has been transformed into a huge outdoor bar. Super cozy and right by the river, it's also really cool.

McCarren Hotel

As I said; most pools are either private or only for members. But in Brooklyn, they do it differently.

The McCarren Hotel pool is not just for hotel guests, but definitely for you looking for a dip. An access pass isn't cheap, but believe me: on the hottest days, it's definitely worth it. This pool also has pretty cool looks. Great for an afternoon of chilling and boosting your Instagram.

Sailing

The Schooner Adirondack Sails doesn't really sound like something mega cool online. But, I've heard from multiple sources that it's quite fun. There are all sorts of different sailing trips to book. From during sunset to sailing under a full moon. Sounds pretty good to me.

Surfing!

It's an hour by subway to Long Beach. This beach on Long Island is already super chill, of course, but if you want water fun and to learn something: then this is also the place to surf. There is a surf school and the waves during low tide are said to be perfect for beginners. Win-win situation!

Hotel Americano

There is also a rooftop pool to be found in Manhattan. It's a tiny little thing and for most users, it remains at splashing around with a Cosmo in hand. But still, it's a place to cool off. Oh, and that Cosmo is also your ticket in. Other drinks count too.

Free and yellow

Want to be active on the water for an afternoon? Then go (again) to the Hudson. At one of the many piers is the Downtown Boathouse. And not like in Central Park where you find romantic boats to mess around in. No, here you have yellow sport kayaks and life jackets. So it's not really chill, but fun all the more. Detail: it's completely free.