Welcome to the hottest week of the summer. If you're based on the East Coast, you probably made a mad dash to the nearest PC Richard this weekend to stock up on extra air conditioners, but if you want a sexier way to beat the heat, here are five rooftop pools in New York City where you can truly cool off in chilled out style.
1. The Beach at Dream Downtown
Now open for its third season, The Beach at Dream Downtown has a sweeping 4,800 square feet of prime outdoor Manhattan real estate. Sun worshippers can unwind with cocktails and small bites poolside seven days a week. The Beach is free for all hotel guests, but if you aren't staying at the hotel and still looking to take a dip, day passes can be purchased.
On the seventh floor of the swank SoHo hotel sits the chic pool at the Trump SoHo. Open for hotel guests and condominium owners only (exclusive, indeed!), the pool is located at the Bar de'Eau terrace with 6,000 square feet of space. Guests are welcome to enjoy cocktails poolside. Bar d'Eau is a seasonal oasis that opens out onto the pool deck. It offers light fare and innovative cocktails.
If it's views you are after, you can't go wrong with the pool at Le Parker Meridien. Perched atop the 42nd floor, the pool has views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. It is indoors with an adjacent outdoor sundeck, for those who need a little tan in their lives. The pool has a menu of food and drink, as well. If you aren't a guest, passes can be purchased for $150 per day in the summer, which includes access to the gravity fitness center.
4. The James
Down in SoHo travelers will find heat wave relief at The James. The pool is on the 18th floor and has gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline. Adjacent to the pool is hotel bar JIMMY, where guests can get a cocktail to boost the level of relaxation. Good to know: Guests staying through September 30 can book the R+R Retreat package, which includes a James signature canvas tote bag, Coola organic sunscreen, two JIMMY cocktails and access to e-readers and the Waterproof Library.
5. La Piscine at Hotel Americano
Posh pool in Chelsea? That would be La Piscine at Hotel Americano. With cabanas and daybeds, La Piscine is a sexy scene during the day and night. Be sure to check out the menu at adjacent The Grill at La Piscine.