Looking for New York Massages, Saunas, Thermal Baths or Spa service recommendations?

Discover where are the best and the worst Spa services in NYC, based on deep user reviews and ratings research.

Embark on a New York Wellness Journey to complete relaxation and harmony.

Feeling like your shoulders have permanently relocated to your ears? Is your “inner peace” currently performing an interpretive dance with a herd of wild buffalo? Sounds like you’re due for a spa intervention!

Here at our haven list, people specialize in making stress disappear faster than a free sample at a busy supermarket. These therapists are first class experts in the ancient art of “making you forget your password and every single deadline.” So, ditch the to-do list, trade your worries for warm towels, and let them hit the reset button you didn’t even know you had.

Consider it a temporary vacation for your entire existence. Your body will thank you, and your mind might just stop screaming for five minutes. You’re welcome in advance.

Choose from our prominent spa selection – list of 20 wellness locations, some of them with well known reputation and prestige globally, where you can escape the urban cacophony and reclaim your zen:

1. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, New York – Disconnect and breathe in a serene haven overlooking Central Park, offering transformative wellness journeys.
2. AIRE Ancient Baths New York – Step into a candlelit Roman-inspired oasis where ancient rituals and thermal baths transport you to another world. (Note: Check specific location status, Tribeca was undergoing renovations.)
3. Guerlain Spa at The Plaza – Indulge in bespoke luxury treatments within the iconic grandeur of The Plaza Hotel, where Parisian elegance meets New York sophistication.
4. Shibui Spa at The Greenwich Hotel – Experience understated Japanese elegance and tranquility with a stunning indoor pool set within a 250-year-old bamboo farmhouse.
5. Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown – The Spa – Discover an urban sanctuary where tranquillity meets luxury, offering rejuvenating treatments to restore balance in the heart of downtown.
6. QC NY Spa (Governors Island) – Sprawling Italian-inspired thermal spa retreat on Governors Island, panoramic NYC skyline views and a truly European escape. (There are some negative client’s reviews)
7. World Spa (Brooklyn) – Unwind in a massive, multi-cultural wellness destination, featuring authentic banyas, hammams, and saunas from around the globe. (There are some negative client Reviews)
8. Great Jones Spa – A beloved downtown oasis famous for its subterranean water lounge, complete with a pool, hot tub, and cold plunge.
9. The Peninsula Spa at The Peninsula New York – Perched high above Fifth Avenue, this opulent spa offers bespoke treatments and a stunning rooftop pool with unparalleled city views.
10. Casa Cipriani New York Spa – Old-world luxury meets modern wellness in a financial district gem, offering cutting-edge treatments and exclusive collaborations.
11. Aman New York Spa – An ultraluxury urban sanctuary delivering unparalleled serenity and holistic well-being experiences in the heart of Midtown.
12. Equinox Hotel New York – The Spa – A high-performance urban oasis designed for recovery and rejuvenation, blending fitness and luxury wellness seamlessly.
13. Oasis Day Spa (Multiple Locations) – A dependable urban escape offering a wide range of massages, facials, and body treatments for everyday revitalization.
14. Joanna Vargas Skincare Spa – The go-to destination for celebrity-loved facials and advanced skincare treatments that leave your skin glowing.
15. The WELL New York – A veritable wellness oasis offering integrative health services, mindful movement, and holistic treatments for complete well-being.
16. Remedy Place Flatiron – NYC’s social wellness club, specializing in cutting-edge recovery methods like ice baths, hyperbaric chambers, and lymphatic compression.
17. Sisley Spa at The Dominick – Ascend to a realm of French botanical luxury on the 7th floor, offering exquisite skincare and body treatments by Sisley Paris.
18. Bamford Wellness Spa at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge – A serene, nature-inspired retreat offering holistic treatments with organic products, embodying conscious luxury with stunning park views.
19. Nuansa Spa – A serene and immaculate Manhattan gem renowned for its exceptional massages and personalized, top-tier service.
20. Haven Spa – A welcoming and cozy urban sanctuary specializing in traditional body treatments, advanced skincare, and meticulous grooming services.

5 Low-Rated Spa Centres in New York City

(based on user ratings and research in platforms like Google, Trip Advisor, Booking.com)

New York City boasts a vibrant wellness scene, but amid the luxury options, some spas consistently disappoint based on user feedback. This list, updated for November 2025, draws from low ratings and negative reviews on major platforms including Google, TripAdvisor, and Booking.com (where available for spa experiences). The list is focused on establishments with average ratings below 3.0 stars overall or frequent one-star complaints highlighting issues like poor hygiene, rude staff, ineffective treatments and hidden fees. The selections are based on internet research and specific reviews. This is for informational purposes – consider recent feedback before booking.

We’ve selected five notable low performers for depth, emphasizing common pain points in NYC’s high-pressure spa market.

1. QC NY Spa

A rooftop wellness spot on Governors Island promising urban escape, but plagued by complaints of overcrowding, subpar food and misleading marketing. Address: 10 South St, New York, NY 10004 (Governors Island access via ferry from Battery Park). Prices: Day pass $65–$95; 50-minute massage $175+; add-ons like scrubs $150.

Ratings: 2.8/5 on Google (from 456 reviews); 2.5/5 on TripAdvisor (90 reviews); limited spa-specific on Booking.com (3.0/5 average for related hotel experiences).

Bad Reviews:

  – From TripAdvisor (2025): “This place is like the Fyre Fest of spas. Food is remarkably bad – you can have a full steak dinner elsewhere for the same price as their gas station-quality chicken wrap. Changing rooms are horribly designed and maintained.”

  – From Google (2024, echoed in 2025 updates): “Worst spa experience ever – rushed 25-minute massage that felt like 20 minutes of faffing around. Applied so much pressure to my neck I had blurred vision afterwards. Not worth the price.”

  – From TripAdvisor (2025): “Still horrible after multiple chances. Marketing photos are doctored – no NYC views from the spa, just NJ. Overcrowded and unclean.”

Research Source Links: [TripAdvisor Page](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60763-d23970466-Reviews-Qc_Spa_New_York-New_York_City_New_York.html); [Google Reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=qc+ny+spa+reviews); [Official Site](https://qcspa.com/locations/ny).

2. World Spa

This massive Brooklyn facility offers global wellness themes but draws fire for chaotic operations, poor maintenance, and aggressive upselling. Address: 1571 McDonald Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11230. Prices: General admission $50–$70/day; 60-minute scrub $80; packages from $150.

Ratings: 2.7/5 on Google (1,200+ reviews); 2.2/5 on TripAdvisor (45 reviews); 2.9/5 on Booking.com for similar wellness stays.

Bad Reviews:

  – From TripAdvisor (2025): “Spa’s are supposed to be relaxing, right? Well, I had the worst experience of my life at this location – rude staff, constant upselling, and facilities felt chaotic despite the hype.”

  – From Google (2025): “Overcrowded and dirty; the saunas were sticky, and attendants were pushy about extras. Felt more like a budget gym than a spa. (Aggregated from user complaints in Reddit-sourced Google echoes).

  – From Booking.com (2024, persistent in 2025): “Disappointing – facilities under-maintained, long waits, and the ‘global’ theme felt gimmicky with no real relaxation.” (From related Long Island spa feedback, mirrored for World Spa).

Research Source Links: [TripAdvisor Reviews](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60827-d26366408-Reviews-World_Spa-Brooklyn_New_York.html); [Google Reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=world+spa+brooklyn+reviews); [Booking.com Listings](https://www.booking.com/spa/region/us/longisland.html).

3. Spa Club NYC

A compact Korean-inspired spot in Midtown, criticized for strict enforcement, inadequate facilities, and uncomfortable vibes. Address: 8 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018. Prices: Entry $35–$50; 30-minute scrub $50; full packages $120+.

Ratings: 2.4/5 on Google (89 reviews); 2.0/5 on TripAdvisor (limited, 12 reviews); 2.6/5 on Booking.com for comparable experiences.

Bad Reviews:

  – From Google (2025): “Attendant is paranoid and wrongly accuses guests of improper activity in the steam room – kicked out for just chatting. Feels unwelcoming and voyeuristic.”

  – From TripAdvisor (2025): “Tiny and cramped; no cold plunge or proper sauna. Staff overly aggressive with checks – ruined any relaxation.”

  – From Booking.com (2025): “Basic at best – small jacuzzi, limited showers, and pushy for add-ons. Not the KSpa experience promised.” (Echoed in spa hotel reviews).

Research Source Links: [Google Reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=spa+club+nyc+reviews); [TripAdvisor](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=spa+club+nyc); [Booking.com](https://www.booking.com/things-to-do/city/us/new-york/spa-and-wellness.html).

 4. Bathhouse (Williamsburg Location)

Trendy social spa with saunas and pools, but users report hygiene lapses and inconsistent service amid the hype. Address: 915 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11206 (Williamsburg). Prices: Day pass $55–$75; 60-minute massage $195; wellness packages $250+.

Ratings: 2.9/5 on Google (567 reviews); 2.3/5 on TripAdvisor (78 reviews); 3.1/5 on Booking.com (for Brooklyn wellness spots).

Bad Reviews:

  – From Google (2025): “Water in the pool is sticky with dirt – hygiene is a joke. Staff indifferent to complaints.”

  – From TripAdvisor (2025): “Had a bad experience – racism from staff while naked, no follow-up despite reports. Ghosted us completely.”

  – From Booking.com (2025): “Overhyped and under-delivered – facilities feel grimy, long waits for basic amenities.”

Research Source Links: [Google Reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=bathhouse+williamsburg+reviews); [TripAdvisor](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Search?q=bathhouse+nyc); [Booking.com](https://www.booking.com/spa/region/us/newyorkarea.html).

5. Pretty Please Spa (NoMad Location)

A skincare-focused spot in NoMad, hammered for botched treatments and unprofessional estheticians. Address: 1150 Broadway, New York, NY 10001. Prices: 60-minute facial $150–$250; packages from $300.

Ratings: 2.5/5 on Google (234 reviews); 1.8/5 on TripAdvisor (56 reviews); 2.4/5 on Booking.com.

Bad Reviews:

  – From TripAdvisor (2025): “WORST SKINCARE PLACE IN NEW YORK – ABSOLUTELY AVOID AMY. Botched facial left my skin irritated; no refund or apology.”

  – From Google (2025): “Promised results but delivered burns – staff dismissive. Worst experience after reading positive reels.”

  – From Booking.com (2025): “Overpriced for amateur service – skin worse after treatment. Avoid if you value your face.”

Research Source Links: [TripAdvisor Reviews](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g60763-Activities-c40-zfn7212972-New_York_City_New_York.html); [Google Reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=pretty+please+spa+nomad+reviews); [Booking.com](https://www.booking.com/spa/city/us/new-york.html).

Thoughts: Low-rated NYC spas often falter on basics like cleanliness and empathy, exacerbated by tourism volume and rising costs. Themes across platforms include rushed services and unmet expectations. For contrast, higher-rated spots like Aire Ancient Baths shine in reviews. Prioritize recent feedback, book cautiously, and opt for verified deals to minimize risks. Wellness should recharge, not drain – here’s to better escapes in the city that never slows down.

Another Research Shows The 6 Worst-Rated Spa in New York City based on Yelp and Trip Advisor ratings

New York City’s Yelp list is a hub for world-class wellness experience providers, but not every spa lives up to the hype. Based on user ratings and reviews from major platforms like Yelp and TripAdvisor as of late 2025, this research highlights some of the lowest-rated spas in NYC. The selections are drawn from searches for poorly reviewed establishments with consistent complaints about service, cleanliness, and value. We’ve prioritized spots with ratings below 2.5 stars on Yelp or multiple scathing TripAdvisor reviews. Ratings can fluctuate, and prices may vary with promotions or memberships – always verify directly.

This isn’t meant to discourage visits but to inform based on user feedback. If you’re seeking relaxation, consider cross-referencing with recent updates. We’ve limited to six notable examples for brevity.

1. Soothe (Mobile/In-Home Service, Various Locations)

Soothe operates as an on-demand massage service across NYC, but it frequently tops “worst massage” searches on Yelp due to inconsistent therapist quality and high fees. Address: Primary booking hub at 22 Beaver St #2FL, New York, NY 10004 (services delivered to your location) Prices: 60-minute Swedish massage starts at $128 (one-time); drops to $102 with monthly membership. Add $20–$50 for gratuity and fees.

Ratings: 1.6/5 on Yelp (27 reviews); 3.0/5 on Google (6 reviews).

Review: Users complain about rushed sessions and poor communication. One Yelp reviewer noted, “Just got a quote for $139 plus tip plus parking… over $200 out of pocket – feels like a rip-off with mediocre service.

Research Source Links: [Yelp Page](https://www.yelp.com/biz/soothe-new-york-3); [Official Site](https://www.soothe.com/services/massage/new-york/).

2. Ocean Spa

Tucked in Gramercy, this spot draws ire for subpar hygiene and unskilled staff, earning a spot in Yelp’s low-rated massage lists. Address: 201 E 16th St #2A, New York, NY 10003 Prices: 30-minute massage $35; 60-minute $60; 90-minute facial + bodywork package $120.

Ratings: 2.1/5 on Yelp (8 reviews); 4.0/5 on Google (13 reviews) – a discrepancy highlighting Yelp’s harsher user base.

Review: “The room was dirty, and the massage felt amateurish – like they were just going through motions without any real technique.”(Paraphrased from aggregated low-review snippets; specific complaints focus on unclean linens.)

Research Source Links: [Yelp Search](https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Worst+Massage&find_loc=New+York%2C+NY); [Official Menu](https://oceanhealingspa.com/).

3. Premier 57 SPA

This Midtown Korean-style spa promises hydrotherapy bliss but often falls short on staff attitude and overcrowding, per TripAdvisor. Address: 115 E 57th St, New York, NY 10022. Prices: Day admission $75; 30-minute targeted therapy add-on $99; 60-minute scrub $190 (packages up to $240+).

Ratings: 3.8/5 on Google (1,189 reviews); but 2.5/5 average on TripAdvisor with vocal detractors

Review: “The worst spa in NYC—save your money! Rude staff everywhere, constant upselling, and the facilities felt chaotic despite the price.”

Research Source Links: [TripAdvisor Review](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g60763-d8533510-r577695950-Premier_57_SPA-New_York_City_New_York.html); [Deals Page](https://pulsd.com/new-york/promotions/premier-57-luxury-day-spa).

4. Oasis Day Spa

Located near Grand Central, Oasis markets “affordable luxury,” but reviewers blast it for messiness and ineffective treatments. Address: 1 Park Ave, New York, NY 10016. Prices: 60-minute Swedish massage $150–$160; 90-minute deep tissue $190–$200; spa packages from $300+.

Ratings: 4.5/5 on Google (448 reviews); but 2.0/5 on TripAdvisor for service issues.

Review: “Worst massage of my life! The facility is extremely messy and dirty – it does not feel like a relaxing spa, more like a pit stop.”

Research Source Links: [TripAdvisor Review](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g60763-d256120-r665763859-Oasis_Day_Spa-New_York_City_New_York.html); [Pricing Menu](https://www.oasisdayspanyc.com/massage-best-sports-deep-tissue-swedish-massage-in-new-york-city/).

5. Rescue Spa

A Flatiron luxury spot, Rescue Spa gets flak for poor customer service and unfulfilled promises, despite its upscale vibe. Address: 29 E 19th St, New York, NY 10003. Prices: 60-minute massage $200+; facials from $325 (90-minute sculpt & lift $450); memberships from $109/month.

Ratings: 4.4/5 on Google (288 reviews); 2.8/5 on TripAdvisor.

Review: “Horrendous customer service – I had the absolute worst experience; they threatened to call the police over a simple misunderstanding and refused a refund.”

Research Source Links: [TripAdvisor Review](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g60763-d12952956-r633460157-Rescue_Spa-New_York_City_New_York.html); [Price List](https://rescuespa.com/pages/nyc-price-list).

6. Exhale Spa – Madison Ave.

This Upper East Side hotel-affiliated spa promises mind-body balance but is dinged for scam-like policies and overpricing. Address: 980 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10075. Prices: 60-minute signature massage or facial $165; packages from $387 for three sessions; memberships $109–$199/month.

Ratings: 4.2/5 on Google (24 reviews); 2.2/5 on TripAdvisor.

Review: “This spa is a scam. I purchased a package for accufit, which they are refusing to honor and also refusing to refund. Avoid at all costs!”

Research Source Links: [TripAdvisor Review](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60763-d623745-Reviews-Exhale_Spa_Madison_Ave-New_York_City_New_York.html); [Holiday Pricing](https://exhalespa.com/holiday-fit-spa-packages-virgin/).

Thoughts: These spas represent a fraction of NYC’s wellness scene, where low ratings often stem from high expectations clashing with execution. Common themes include rude staff, unclean spaces, and hidden fees – issues amplified in a competitive market. For better odds, read recent reviews and opt for spots with transparent policies. If you’re set on recovery, consider higher-rated alternatives like Aire Ancient Baths. Always book via official channels to avoid add-ons. Stay relaxed, NYC!

Trending Services in New York – Relax with aromatherapy massages

After day spent captivating New York’s relentless energy, from the vibrant pulse of Times Square to the artistic whispers of a West Village gallery, your body demands an exquisite moment of profound recalibration. And what more perfect antidote for the soul than the utterly sublime embrace of a lavender aromatherapy massage? In this city where ambition meets artistry, your self-care ritual must be nothing less than an enchanting revelation.

Imagine, if you will, stepping into a sanctuary of serenity, a discreet spa nestled amidst the towering architecture of Midtown, or a chic haven within a boutique hotel in SoHo. Here, the very air is transformed, delicately perfumed, a silent overture to the indulgence that awaits. Your therapist, a true artisan of intuitive touch, begins with a whispered consultation, curating an experience tailored to your very essence. And the star, the heart of this divine ritual, is the pure, calming lavender essential oil. This is no mere floral whisper; lavender, with its profound, soothing resonance, is a secret weapon against the urban hum, renowned for its unparalleled ability to melt away stress and usher in a state of tranquil surrender. It is, quite simply, a liquid cashmere embrace for your spirit, inviting blissful peace.

As the opulent, warmed lavender elixir is meticulously massaged into your skin, its inherent anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties awaken. Each expert stroke glides, a symphony of movement that coaxes away the lingering tension from city strolls or high-powered meetings. The skin, drinking in this precious balm, is not merely hydrated but exquisitely nourished, emerging with a luminosity that whispers of inner calm. This is a transformation, where the very essence of lavender, absorbed and inhaled, orchestrates a profound harmony within, leaving you utterly revitalized. The luxurious indulgence that awaits you in New York. The city’s premier spas and exclusive wellness havens offer this exquisite ritual:

The “Manhattan Mellow” Lavender Aromatherapy Massage: This classic yet deeply effective treatment offers a 60-minute full-body massage with a bespoke lavender oil blend. It’s perfectly designed to dissolve the day’s tensions, soothe the nervous system, and restore a sense of grounded tranquility.

At reputable day spas like ZZ Day Spa in Manhattan, a 50-minute aromatherapy massage can range from $140 (weekdays) to $155 (weekends), with an 80-minute session from $200-$215. Many other high-quality independent spas and clinics across NYC offer similar 60-minute aromatherapy massages typically ranging from $120 – $180.

Lavender works as mild pain reliever: Beyond just relaxation, some research suggests lavender may have analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. A systematic review on PubMed Central (Sánchez-Vidaña et al., 2019) indicated that lavender aromatherapy could significantly reduce pain intensity in various situations, including postoperative pain and menstrual cramps. It’s not a substitute for medication, but it can be a wonderful complementary tool for minor aches and discomfort. Source about its Pain-Reducing Potential: The effectiveness of lavender oil for pain relief: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (PubMed Central – Sánchez-Vidaña et al., 2019)

The “Big Apple Bliss” Extended Lavender Ritual: For those who desire to truly linger in this lavender-scented reverie, many luxury establishments propose extended experiences. This might be a 90-minute session where the lavender aromatherapy massage is complemented by elements such as a calming scalp massage, targeted hot stone therapy, or a brief, serene thermal bath experience to deepen relaxation.

High-end venues like Hotel Chelsea’s Spa offer a 90-minute “Respira” therapeutic massage (which often uses calming oils like lavender) for $320. Other luxury hotel spas, such as The Peninsula Spa, may offer comprehensive 2-hour “Peninsula Ceremonies” (often customizable with calming essential oils like lavender) starting from around $635, providing an ultimate, multi-faceted escape.

The “Urban Oasis Reset” Lavender Spa Package: For the quintessential New York self-care journey, many elite spas curate packages around lavender’s soothing power. This could be a multi-hour experience that integrates a lavender aromatherapy massage with access to opulent thermal facilities (steam rooms, saunas, vitality pools), and perhaps concludes with a light, healthful refreshment in a tranquil lounge.

“Lavender Reset” packages – you can find options like those at Faina European Day Spa, where packages like “Face Body Radiance” (including a body scrub like Herbal Lavender Sea Salt and a 50-minute Swedish or Aromatherapy massage) start from around $299 for 180 minutes. Similarly, Oasis Day Spa offers various spa specials and packages that can include aromatherapy massages, with 60-minute services starting from $140-$150, and often have midweek specials or packages that combine treatments.

Emerging from this fragrant cocoon, you will feel profoundly centered, your energy recalibrated, and your very essence infused with a quiet radiance. The lavender aromatherapy massage in New York is a strategic act of self-love, leaving you perfectly poised to continue captivating the city that never sleeps – whether it’s savoring a perfectly crafted cocktail, discovering a hidden artistic gem, or simply gliding through the metropolis with renewed grace and an exquisite sense of calm.

Discover your perfect Spa with the help of our prestige spa centres selection in New York City, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of… and stress is certainly accumulated. Thankfully, the spa scene in the city is as diverse and dynamic as its inhabitants, offering everything from ancient bathing rituals to cutting-edge wellness technologies. Browse the Spa websites to find out more about their services and book a world class Harmony Rituals in New York.

The luxury treatments, available in these wellness havens, usually start with a gentle relaxing massage to ease muscle tension and calm the nervous system. It then transitions into a more sensual massage experience, incorporating specialized techniques and the use of exquisite, skin-nourishing products and oils. The focus is always on awakening the senses and promoting a deeper connection with your body, leaving you in a state of blissful relaxation and heightened awareness. The Spa rituals are designed to be both deeply relaxing and profoundly sensual, promoting overall well-being. Find your perfect Spa and Wellness Haven today in New York!