Framed by two grand bridges — the Triborough and Hell’s Gate, with Manhattan’s famous skyline in the distance, the Astoria pool is a summer favorite for locals.

As the eager swimmers awaited their first dip, Mayor Mike Bloomberg announced its official opening, and dived in himself. (No he wasn't wearing speedos...) The ceremony was followed by a party, which included a free BBQ, ice cream and swimming.

The Astoria Pool first opened with much anticipation on the Fourth of July in the summer of 1936, on the first day of the Olympic trials. Tens of thousands of people have enjoyed the warm water of Astoria Pool since then.

Astoria Pool has already hosted two U.S. Olympic trials and is the proposed arena for swimming, diving, and synchronized swimming for the Olympic Games in 2012, should New York host the games.

Entrance to Astoria Pool is FREE, and is open daily, 11am to 6:30pm, from June 26th to Labor Day. The pool is also open for Early Bird's who want to swim laps, from 7am-8:30am Monday through Friday.

Pool Rules:

In case you are thinking about taking a dip, here are the rules posted at Astoria Park Pool:

• No Pets
• No Smoking
• No Diving (except in designated areas)
• No Running, jumping or ball playing
• No Disorderly Behavior
• No Eating or Drinking in the pool area
• No Beach Chairs, strollers, blankets, floatation devices or water toys in pool area.
• No Electronic equipment, including cell phones and cameras.

One other piece of advice: Remember to bring a lock. You will not be allowed to enter the pool without having a combination lock with you... If you don’t already own one, you can purchase it from Jennifer, a local vendor at the gate's entrance, who sells, in her own words, "everything you need for the pool!"

Enjoy your summer!