Astoria Pool
Dive into NYC's largest public pool, a recently renovated, free oasis in Astoria Park offering a classic summer escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to swim
Astoria Pool
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to swim
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dive into NYC's largest public pool, a recently renovated, free oasis in Astoria Park offering a classic summer escape.
"Hands down the best public pool in NYC. Early morning lap swimming is one of my favorite summer activities."
🎯 Bring Your Own Lock!
A lock for the locker room is essential. You can buy one onsite if you forget.
📱 Leave Electronics at Home
Phones, tablets, and other electronics are not allowed on the pool deck.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
NYC's Largest Public Pool
Astoria Park
Dive into the city's biggest public swimming oasis, recently renovated and offering a refreshing escape.
Post-Renovation Splendor
Astoria Park
Experience the revitalized Astoria Pool, boasting a $19 million facelift for a modern, clean swimming experience.
Summer Splash Zone
Astoria Park
Enjoy free summer swimming at this beloved Queens spot, perfect for beating the heat with family and friends.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat: Your Astoria Pool Visit
Navigating Astoria Pool Rules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bring Your Own Lock!
A lock for the locker room is essential. You can buy one onsite if you forget.
📱 Leave Electronics at Home
Phones, tablets, and other electronics are not allowed on the pool deck.
💧 Water & Towel Only
Only bring a water bottle, towel, sunscreen, and a book to the pool area.
⏰ Check Cleaning Schedule
The pool closes for cleaning daily from 3 PM to 4 PM.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bring Your Own Lock!
A lock for the locker room is essential. You can buy one onsite if you forget.
📱 Leave Electronics at Home
Phones, tablets, and other electronics are not allowed on the pool deck.
💧 Water & Towel Only
Only bring a water bottle, towel, sunscreen, and a book to the pool area.
⏰ Check Cleaning Schedule
The pool closes for cleaning daily from 3 PM to 4 PM.
🏊♀️ Lap Swimming Info
Lap swimming availability can vary; inquire beforehand as it's not always offered.
👙 Proper Swim Attire
Ensure you have lined bathing suits; they are checked before entry.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Astoria Pool is widely praised as NYC's best public pool, offering a clean and spacious environment for summer fun. Visitors appreciate the recent renovations and the free admission, though some find the strict rules regarding electronics and food a bit challenging. The locker rooms could also use some improvement, but overall, it's a highly recommended spot for beating the heat.
"Hands down the best public pool in NYC. Early morning lap swimming is one of my favorite summer activities in the city. Staff is nice, but clearly overwhelmed with work. The city needs to increase the funds for public parks and pools."
Francesco La Rosa
"Very clean, many rules for the safety of everyone, they have done great job to keep the place clean and safe, only bummer we can not even have our phones on the pool. That's not a complaint. No phones, no beach bags, no electronics. No food no drinks except water. You can only enter the pool with your towel sunscreen hat and water. If you don't have lock to lock your things in the locker room, you can buy one from a little kiosk right outside (like i did) or you can risk to let your things without lock in the locker room (i dont think so😁) or go home and come back later or tomorrow. The rules apply for everyone, there is police guarding the place, and a lot of staff and security. But I give them a plus because except you can buy food and drinks, they have Greek Frappé?? Yeee😁😁"
Afrodite Antonousou
"It's been about 20 years since I've last been to this Pool. Back in Middle School in the late 90s during the Summer, my class would come here at least twice a Summer and it's always been a blast. Now as an almost middle aged adult in an attempt to weather through almost triple digit weather, Astoria Pool hasn't lost its charm. As good as the trip was, it isn't perfect.
Since it was a hot day, there was a rather long queue that I had to wait through, which fortunately wasn't as long as I thought it would be. There are a couple of rules and regulations which do make enough sense to follow. No electronics in the pool area, you must have a lock for your locker and shower before and after being in the pool. A towel is recommended.
The one drawback would be the locker rooms. I dunno how the women's one looks like since I'm a man but the men's locker leaves a lot to be desired. I know it's a public use facility but it could be more taken care of so it would look less like a Gulag from Call of Duty: Warzone, plus the lockers are pretty small, I was amazed that I could fit all of my stuff in there. Other than that, it's a nice way to kill some time on a hot day. Be mindful of their schedule though because an hour break is utilized from 3 to 4 PM."
Sledge Williams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Astoria Pool is located in Astoria Park, Queens. You can reach it via subway lines N, W to the Ditmars Boulevard station, followed by a walk or bus. Several bus lines also serve the area.
Limited street parking is available around Astoria Park, but it can be challenging to find, especially on busy days. Public transport is generally recommended.
The N and W subway lines to Ditmars Boulevard are the closest options. From there, it's a short walk or bus ride to the pool.
Yes, biking is a great option. There are bike racks available in Astoria Park, allowing you to secure your bicycle while you swim.
Several bus routes serve Astoria Park, making it accessible from various parts of Queens and beyond. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Astoria Pool is a public pool and offers free admission. You just need to adhere to their rules and regulations.
Astoria Pool typically opens daily from 11 AM to 7 PM during the summer season, with a daily cleaning break from 3 PM to 4 PM. It's best to check the official NYC Parks website for exact dates and hours.
Astoria Pool usually opens for the summer season on the first weekday after New York City public schools conclude their academic year. 
No, tickets are not required for Astoria Pool as it is free public access. However, entry may be limited by capacity on very busy days.
Generally, there are no strict age restrictions for entry, but children under a certain age may require adult supervision. Always check posted rules at the entrance.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
You can bring a towel, a water bottle (only water allowed), sunscreen, and a book. A lock for the locker room is essential.
Electronics (phones, tablets), food, and non-water drinks are prohibited on the pool deck. Beach bags are also restricted.
Yes, lifeguards are on duty during operating hours to ensure swimmer safety. However, lifeguard shortages can sometimes lead to reduced pool space being open.
Locker rooms are available for changing and storing belongings. It's recommended to bring your own lock as they are not always provided. Some reviews mention they could be better maintained.
Lap swimming is sometimes available, but it's not guaranteed daily, especially if there are lifeguard shortages. It's best to inquire upon arrival.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a concession stall that offers snacks and drinks, including Greek Frappé, which is a popular item.
Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed on the pool deck, except for a water bottle. You can purchase items from the onsite concession.
Astoria Park is surrounded by many excellent restaurants and cafes, offering a wide variety of cuisines. You can enjoy a meal before or after your swim.
Only water bottles are permitted. Other beverages are not allowed on the pool deck.
There is a concession stand that sells snacks and beverages, but it's not a full-service cafe.
📸 📸 Photography
Taking photos on the pool deck is generally not allowed, especially with phones or tablets. It's best to check the specific rules posted at the entrance.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in public parks and over swimming facilities like Astoria Pool due to privacy and safety regulations.
While photography within the pool area is restricted, the surrounding Astoria Park offers beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline and the RFK Bridge, perfect for photos.
Most reviews indicate that phones and other electronic devices are not permitted on the pool deck, which would include using your phone camera.
Filming, especially for commercial purposes, may require special permits. For personal use, be mindful of the no-electronics rule on the pool deck.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the pool itself is a highlight, the surrounding Astoria Park offers playgrounds and open spaces for kids to enjoy before or after swimming. Be aware of the strict rules regarding food and drinks, so plan accordingly for snacks. The daily cleaning break from 3-4 PM is also something to factor into your family's schedule.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your savings, pack your own water and snacks (within the allowed limits, of course) and bring your own lock for the locker room. Public transportation is also an affordable way to get there. This makes it an ideal destination for experiencing a classic New York summer activity on a tight budget.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
While lap swimming isn't always guaranteed due to lifeguard availability, it's worth checking. The surrounding Astoria Park also provides space for outdoor workouts, running, or other athletic activities, making it a comprehensive fitness destination.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A History of Astoria Pool
+2The pool's design is classic art deco, reflecting the architectural style of its era. Its sheer size—holding one million gallons of water—and its integration into the sprawling Astoria Park make it a unique urban oasis. The park itself offers a running track, tennis courts, and playgrounds, making the pool a central feature of a larger recreational hub.
+1Despite its historical significance, the pool has faced challenges, including periods of closure for repairs and, more recently, lifeguard shortages impacting operational capacity. However, its reopening after major renovations has been met with enthusiasm, highlighting its enduring appeal as a beloved community asset.
Navigating Astoria Pool Rules and Regulations
Essential items to bring include a towel, a water bottle (only water is allowed), sunscreen, and a lock for the locker room. If you forget a lock, there's a kiosk where you can purchase one. Food and non-water beverages are not permitted. The pool also has a daily cleaning break, typically from 3 PM to 4 PM, during which access is restricted.
Proper swimwear is also enforced, with specific requirements for bathing suits. The staff are diligent in enforcing these rules, with security present to ensure compliance. While these regulations might seem strict, they contribute to the pool's reputation for being clean and safe, making it a reliable spot for a refreshing swim.
Lap Swimming at Astoria Pool
Several factors can affect lap swimming sessions, including lifeguard staffing levels. On days with lifeguard shortages, the pool may operate with reduced space, and lap swimming might not be offered. It's always advisable to call ahead or inquire upon arrival to confirm if lap swimming is available on your intended visit day.
While the Boys and Girls Club on 21st Street is mentioned as an alternative for lap swimming, Astoria Pool remains a popular choice for its size and free access during the summer months. Planning your visit during off-peak hours can increase your chances of enjoying dedicated lap lanes.
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