The Perfect Spa Day in Midtown

Let’s be honest: New York City can be an overwhelming place. It’s easy to feel frazzled after a day in the Big Apple—especially for first-time tourists attempting to navigate the labyrinthine network of subway lines. But even repeat visitors (let alone locals) can find New York City exhausting. Fortunately, the city has no shortage of world-class day spas, boutiques and salons designed to ease away the distractions of the city.

For a relaxation-focused spa day, consider out complete itinerary: a rigorous agenda of self-care and revitalization sure to leave you restored (and ready to face another day on the sleepless streets).

Get pumped for a fun, all-about-you day by taking a mind-meets-body class at Exhale. At this spa and fitness studio overlooking Central Park, both members as well as non-members can enjoy the signature Core Fusion classes, like Barre + Cardio. You’ll sweat during the intense hour-long program, but you probably won’t feel it until the day after. Expect a cardio-focused intro (there will be mountain climbers) before moving to the ballet bar for lengthening and toning exercises. Afterward, enjoy a shower or a steam in the fully-stocked changing room.

Refuel at one of The Little Beet’s two midtown locations. Healthful, ingredient-driven dishes at this gluten-free spot are perfect for a day focused on well-being. It’s also easy to find meals that satisfy vegan, vegetarian, soy-free, dairy-free, or nut-free diets. If you’re in the mood for breakfast, try a cold-pressed juice or raw oatmeal with dates and maple. Lunch options include beet bowls with quinoa and arugula, or butternut squash soup with coconut and turmeric.

Let the pampering continue while you get your nails done at Tenoverten. Since opening the Tribeca salon, founders Nadine Abramcyk and Adair Ilyinsky have brought their non-toxic nail polishes (and customer-service driven approach) to five locations across New York City, Los Angeles, and Austin. Opt for a luxe manicure (and pedicure, if you’re feeling extra indulgent). You’ll enjoy a hot stone massage along with the basic cuticle care, nail shaping, and moisturizing massage. For a memorable paint job, request the moon mani.

You’ll only find Ohm Spa in New York, and it’s the perfect fit for, well, just about everyone. Designed by Jonathan Ho and Kathy Yan to appeal to all (even the suit-and-tie crowd), guests will appreciate the soothing, gender neutral tones and results-oriented treatment menu. This is the spot for a serious massage, whether you’re here with your significant other or flying solo. Targeted massage therapy for areas in need, deep tissue massages, Swedish massages, Shiatsu massages, and even a Four-Handed Massage featuring two therapists working in tandem are all options for your perfect spa day.

Dodge the midtown chaos by grabbing a pot of tea at Radiance Tea House & Books, on West 55th Street. Its exhaustive menu explains the health benefits of every Chinese loose-leaf tea you’ve never heard of. And if all this chilling out has worked up an appetite, grab a guilt-free plate of silky tofu or steamed chicken with ginseng.

Find a bit of inner peace—and maybe even enlightenment—by joining in a meditation class at the end of the day. New Yorkers’ favorite new way to wind down has been taken to a new level at MNDFL, a boutique studio with a new location on E 60th, just north of Midtown. Book a cushion in advance for a 30 or 45-minute session focused on breathing, emotions, or ambient sound.