![Monumental View](https://www.washingtonian.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Pool_01-600.jpg)
Unobstructed vistas of the Washington Monument—as well as National Cathedral, Rosslyn, and the Key Bridge—are the big draw at this 30-foot pool atop the Avenue, an apartment building in DC’s Foggy Bottom. The building’s 500 residents have to share just six daily guest passes—lending the pool, resident Maryam Bami says, a “very exclusive” feel. Photograph by Eric Taylor.
![Urban Oasis](https://www.washingtonian.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Pool_02-600.jpg)
Boasting sweeping views of the Potomac and the Rosslyn skyline, the pool on top of the Georgetown condo building 3303 Water Street is an unexpected oasis, considering its proximity to the bustling Whitehurst Freeway. But this killer poolside view doesn’t come cheap: A three-bedroom, five-bath condo in the building recently sold for $6 million. Photograph by Eric Taylor.
![Secret Garden](https://www.washingtonian.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Pool_03-600.jpg)
While the elegant porches and hanging greenery may conjure New Orleans, this oval private pool lies behind a 150-year-old home on Capitol Hill. The tucked-away feel makes the retreat perfect for parties—just ask owners Gail and Donald Elliott, who entertain here all summer. Photograph by Dan Chung.
![Glass Castle](https://www.washingtonian.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Pool_04-600.jpg)
THis summer’s buzziest plunge may be this new 41-foot pool at the Apartments at CityCenter. On the fifth floor of the building at DC’s 875 Tenth Street, Northwest, the pool is surrounded by the development’s modern glass buildings—it feels like something out of New York or LA. An indoor/outdoor lounge dubbed the HydroClub houses a bar, couches and chairs, a TV and a billiard table. Photograph by Julia Heine/McInturff Architects.
![Modern Masterpiece](https://www.washingtonian.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Pool_05-600.jpg)
Designed by local architect Mark McInturff, this sleek, contemporary pool setting provides sharp contrast with the historic country home it sits behind. Nestled along the shores of the Rappahannock River, the pool is paired with a sculptural open-air pool house made of white brick, timber and steel framing. A sail-shaped copper roof shades part of the pool. Photograph by Julia Heine/McInturff Architects.