Here Is The Lone Public Pool On The Upper West Side This Summer

UPPER WEST SIDE, NY — The scorching heat of the summer season is fully upon us, which means that public pools are back open across New York City.

It might not be common knowledge, but there is actually a free pool on the Upper West Side that is run by the Parks Department.

The Frederick Douglass outdoor mini pool is located on Amsterdam Avenue and West 101st Street within the playground of the same name.

Part of the reason why it flies under the radar is its size.

Unlike some Olympic size public pools in other parts of the city, the mini pool in the Upper West Side playground is 40' by 20' by 3'.

The Frederick Douglass Pool is open 11 a.m. through 7 p.m., with a daily cleaning break from 3 to 4 p.m. It also has a free sunscreen dispenser.

Free public pools opened in the city last week and will remain open until Sept. 10.

"Our outdoor pools are amazing amenities for New Yorkers, offering free places to cool off on hot days, have fun, and get some exercise," said Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue said in a news release. "I look forward to seeing everyone out at our pools this summer, and remember – always follow the directions of our lifeguards, and never leave children unattended in and around the pool.”

You can find out more about public pools throughout Manhattan on the New York City Parks Department's website.