New York Dearest
The guide, $35
A place · Place · Harlem · on 1 of my list

Sheltering Arms Pool.

Worth it, says Antonina. It’s one of the best maintained public pools in NYC that has clean bathrooms and security keeping an eye on the lockers, tables and chairs.

Antonina Pattiz
Antonina PattizI went myself · from my Best public pools in New York
Where Sheltering Arms Pool appears on New York Dearest

It's on 1 of my list. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.

Worth it
  • Address1350 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10027
  • From my guide, updated January 2024.

Located north of Columbia University is Sheltering Arms Pool. It’s one of the best maintained public pools in NYC that has clean bathrooms and security keeping an eye on the lockers, tables and chairs. There is one caveat, though. The staff at Sheltering Arms can be brash, especially during the shift change.

They try to get everyone out (rather rudely) so they can clean the pool before it reopens at four. Then again, it only ruins the experience if you let it. This isn’t the only public swimming pool in NYC with staff that’s been accused of being uninviting but it’s free and so long as you follow the rules you’ll be okay.

Read it on the list
Worth it, says Antonina. Been? Say if you agree.
Sheltering Arms Pool

Nearby, from my lists

Worth it, within a ten-minute walk
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Sheltering Arms Pool

Harlem