Where to Pamper Yourself in New York City
Lavish spas, heavenly treatments and outstanding facilities – these spas in New York City are the spots worth seeking out.
Best for… a spa that will transport you to another world
Aire Ancient Baths
Located in the trendy Tribeca borough, Aire Ancient Baths is set in a converted textile factory and reminiscent of a Roman bathhouse. A two-hour time slot is the perfect amount of time to hop between the eight baths within the space, that range from 10 degrees to 38 degrees in temperature. For a peaceful moment, float in the salt bath to ease muscle tension or take a seat in the jet bath to alleviate pain in aching bodies. Although the noise level is whisper, note that with couples and groups a bit of chatter is inevitable. Massages are also available.
88 Franklin Street, New York; +1 646 878 6174
Best for… a serene escape in the city
Spa de La Mer
Tucked two floors below street level, under the Baccarat Hotel, you won’t hear a single thing from the outside world when you indulge at Spa de La Mer, despite being minutes from 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue. The spa – which is just over three years old and has four treatment rooms – is impeccably styled with an abundance of marble, soft lighting and La Mer’s product range (available to purchase) making it a sought-after escape in the middle of the city. Choose from one of five facials that are customised to your skin types and concerns (the La Mer Miracle Broth Facial is fantastic for brightening).
Floor -2, 28 West 53rd Street, New York; +1 212 790 8910
Best for… treatments with stunning views
Spa Nalai at Park Hyatt New York
Perched on the 25th floor of the Park Hyatt New York – and open to the public when you book a treatment at least 60 minutes in duration – Spa Nalai’s views of the city skyline and Central Park are postcard-worthy. Take in the sights from the peaceful waiting area, which is brimming with natural light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows and filled with neutral tones, from a day bed by the impossibly blue pool or from a window in selected treatment suites. The massages are a standout at this oasis; opt for the Renew Massage to soothe sore muscles if you’ve been pounding the pavement doing the tourist bit.
153 West 57th Street, New York; +1 646 774 1234
Best for… a full pamper day
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, New York
Sprawled across the 35th floor, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental is a welcoming haven from the second you walk in. Expect a cup of relaxing hibiscus tea and a warm towel on arrival, before being whisked through the spa to one of seven single rooms (there’s also one couples’ room). The soothing décor takes inspiration from Eastern influences and sets the tone for the serene range of treatments on offer. The signature Oriental Harmony treatment – conducted by two therapists – works to alleviate jet lag with a body scrub followed by a massage designed to balance the body. Post-treatment, make use of the relaxation area, heat experience room, vitality pool and amethyst crystal steam room – a perfect way to fill in the remainder of the day.
80 Columbus Circuit, New York; +1 212 805 8880
Best for… a luxury treatment
La Prairie Spa at The Ritz-Carlton
The elegant La Prairie Spa at The Ritz-Carlton exudes luxury at every turn. Opt for one of the Manhattan Minutes packages: carefully constructed treatments that are designed to maximise your time (packages range from 1.5 – 3.5 hours in duration) while pampering every inch of your body. Think skin-type specific facials, massages, manicures, pedicures and more. While you relax in the waiting room prior to your treatment, take a moment to select the music you’d like played in your treatment room. A note to the wise: as the spa is two levels above ground and just metres from Central Park and busy surrounding streets, a car horn here and a siren there is to be expected.
50 Central Park South, New York; +1 212 308 9100
