8. John Jay Park, Between 76th and 78th streets

Rather than having trees and quiet bench areas, John Jay Park is more recreational with its outdoor swimming pool and sprinklers as well as playgrounds, athletic courts and fitness equipment. In 1906, the city opened a public bath house in this area, and the area was renovated in 1941 as part of a Work Projects Administration project. This renovation resulted in the creation of facilities like gyms and recreation rooms. In the summer, John Jay Park’s outdoor pool becomes very popular.