After the stress and uncertainty of the past year and a half, we could all use a little rest and relaxation, right? And the good news is that you don’t have to travel to Europe or Asia to experience world-class spa services. In fact, you don’t even have to leave the country. Whether you’re seeking a traditional massage, an indulgent facial, or something a bit more cutting edge, the following five cities from coast to coast have some of the nation’s best spas ready and waiting to pamper you — body and soul.
Palm Beach, Florida
Palm Beach is synonymous with luxury, so it’s no surprise that the island has its fair share of spas catering to wealthy residents and visitors.
If you want your spa treatment with a side of history, look no further than the grande dame of Palm Beach hotels, the Breakers, built on the beach by railroad magnate Henry Flagler in 1925. The indoor-outdoor spa, known for its innovative facials and custom massages, also offers Spa Petite for youngsters.
Nearby, the spa at the five-star Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach lives up to the brand’s gold standard — we recommend the Palm Beach Signature Massage, which uses warmed key lime and vanilla essential oils — while Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa puts a playful spin on spa treatments with complimentary cupcakes, hanging chairs over a pool, and a wishing well with floating candles.
Finally, skincare guru Tammy Fender, known for her eponymous line of holistic skincare products, has a spa in nearby West Palm Beach. Expect treatments utilizing plant butters, marine clays, and floral essences.
New York, New York
While you might not think the city that never sleeps is the best place for rest and relaxation, think again: Along with its world-class dining, shopping, and culture, the Big Apple has top-notch spas in spades. The diverse offerings run the gamut from specialty boutique spas to expansive hotel facilities.
The Mandarin Oriental brand is known for its lavish spas, where ancient Eastern practices meet modern Western innovation, and the New York location is no different. City dwellers and tourists alike indulge in everything from a Diamond Cocoon Facial to the Digital Wellness Escape, which targets the hands, shoulders, and neck.
Seeking something more specialized? The Aire Ancient Baths will transport you back to ancient Rome as you relax in six candlelit pools. If you’re looking to unwind with some ancient medicine, head to ORA, where master acupuncturist Kimberly Ross administers the traditional Chinese treatment in a luxe yet convenient setting.
Napa Valley, California
If you want a spa getaway that speaks of its locale, you’ll find it in Napa Valley, where treatments embrace local ingredients, particularly grapes from its famous vineyards.
A longtime valley institution, the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs invites guests to soak their cares away in naturally warmed mineral pools and mud baths, which contain locally harvested soil abundant with volcanic ash. Or you can go underground at Spa Terra at the Meritage Resort and Spa, which is located in subterranean caves that provide a feeling of seclusion and serenity.
The Spa at the Napa River Inn is a charming choice, and its treatments center on Napa Valley Organics products, which contain local grape-seed ingredients. You can even bring Fido along as the canine-friendly facility will walk and massage your dog while you’re being pampered.
The Silverado Resort and Spa is a classic Napa destination, and its spa is guaranteed to whisk you away to cloud nine with offerings like the Silverado Personalized Facial. It combines various techniques, levels of pressure, and aromatherapy oils for a nuanced approach. Enjoy it under a private cabana for the ultimate in relaxation.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas may be known as Sin City, but you can wash away your sins after a night on the town at any of the city’s full-service spas, most located within top luxury hotels.
Canyon Ranch has been one of the leading names in the spa industry ever since its first wellness resort opened in Arizona in 1979. Located within the Venetian, Canyon Ranch Spa + Fitness is the largest day spa in North America at 134,000 square feet, providing the full gamut of fitness, nutrition, and health offerings.
You’ll feel like you’ve left the city and entered the desert at the Sahra Spa, Salon & Hammam at the Cosmopolitan, thanks to its stone walls and dramatic entrance inspired by a slot canyon. Meanwhile, it’s water, water everywhere at Spa Aquae at the JW Marriott. The healing power of H20 is the focus as guests work their way through a series of hydrotherapy pools.
The theme at the Spa at ARIA is elemental balance, and the spa offers an infinity therapy pool, heated rock beds, a halotherapy room with salt-infused air, and more. Big spenders should look no further than the luxe Gemstone Journey, which begins with a salt-stone massage and ends with a facial that features a diamond-infused mask.
Vail, Colorado
After a day on the slopes, perhaps the only thing better than an après-ski cocktail is an après-ski spa treatment — and Vail is more than equipped to indulge you.
The first spa to open in town, Dryland Fitness & Spa (originally named the Spa at Vail Athletic Club) caters to those seeking traditional spa treatments as well as more medically centered offerings, including myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, and neuromuscular therapy. If you’re having trouble acclimating to the mountain setting, the High Altitude Recovery treatment is just the thing.
Take in views of Gore Creek while lounging in the indoor-outdoor tranquility pool and hot tubs at the intimate Sonnenalp Spa, which also has an oxygen bar to address any pesky altitude sickness. Likewise, you’ll find relief for chapped winter skin with the Mountain Getaway Pedicure at the RockResorts Spa at the Arrabelle. The 10,000-square-foot facility offers alpine-themed treatments featuring local ingredients, such as mountain juniper, white pine, and cedar.
Shake off the winter chill with the Quench Cocoon Wrap at the Spa at Four Seasons Resort Vail. You’ll be wrapped head to toe in warm shea butter and then enjoy a hot-oil hair treatment as you simmer in your cocoon. Of course, there’s much more to indulge in at the spa, which puts a luxe spin on the cozy-mountain-cabin aesthetic.
Chelsea Greenwood is an award-winning lifestyle writer and editor whose work has been featured in InStyle, Teen Vogue, SELF, Racked, Vulture, Brit + Co, SheKnows and Vice. Follow her on Twitter @cpgreenwood.
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