Emma Goldschmidt
Discover Gottesman Pool: Central Park’s Premier Year-Round Recreation Spot
Location: MAP | Mid-park between 106th and 108th Streets Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Closed 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM for cleaning) Phone: (212) 534-7639 (NYC Parks contact for outdoor pools) Admission: Free Season: Late June through early September Facilities: Large swimming pool, locker rooms, restrooms, picnic areas, seasonal ice rink and turf field
About Gottesman Pool
The Gottesman Pool is Central Park’s newest public swimming facility, officially opened in June 2025 as part of the $160 million Davis Center project near Harlem Meer.
Replacing the former Lasker Pool and Rink, Gottesman Pool offers an expansive, organically designed oval pool measuring 285 by 120 feet. This is larger than an Olympic-size pool and among New York City’s largest public pools.
Designed by Susan T. Rodriguez Architecture | Design and Mitchell Giurgola Architects, the pool harmonizes with the park’s natural landscape, reconnecting the Harlem Meer with the North Woods.
Features
Olympic-size oval pool: Accommodates up to 1,000 swimmers, ideal for community swim, lessons, and aquatic programs.
Facilities: The facility includes amenities such as lockers, restrooms, and picnic benches.
Year-round use: Transforms into an ice-skating rink during winter and a multi-use turf field called the Harlem Oval in spring and fall.
Accessibility: Free public access with no ID required, managed seasonally by NYC Parks in partnership with the Central Park Conservancy.
Location & Access: Easily reachable via paths from Malcolm X Boulevard/Lenox Avenue and 110th Street, with scenic walkways along the Harlem Meer and historic Huddlestone Arch nearby.
Programs and Events
The Gottesman Pool hosts free and low-cost community programs including Learn to Swim lessons, wellness classes, and seasonal events. Registration and info can be found through NYC Parks website. For Central Park Conservancy inquiries, visit their official site or contact info@centralparknyc.org (general contact).
Visitor Tips
Arrive early during peak summer days to secure a spot.
Pool closes daily for cleaning from 3 PM to 4 PM.
No alcohol permitted; dress code requires plain white shirts on the pool deck.
Follow NYC Parks updates for pool status and weather-related closures.