Unrecognizable people rowing in a lake during summer at Central Park, midtown Manhattan, New York City, USA.
Editors' Picks

JS Editors’ Favorite Places to Relax in NYC

Yes, it is possible to find some peace and quiet in NYC. Trust us, we know this city well.  From a soothing spa in the Lower East Side to a little-known sculpture park in Soho, here are the places we like to go to relax.

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1

Fort Tryon Park

Fort Tryon Park feels worlds away from Manhattan, and it is, in a way. The 40-minute subway ride from Midtown is no picnic, but the trek is completely worth it. The views of the Hudson are spectacular, and you’re right by the Cloisters, a reconstructed monastery and one of my favorite museums. I love going in the fall, when the turning leaves set the gardens aglow in fiery hues of red and orange.”

– Lindsey Olander, Senior Editor

Chillhouse interior
2

Chillhouse

 “For a pampering relaxation day, I have to give it to Chillhouse—it’s all in the name. The trendy spa/sanctuary in the Lower East Side is the perfect place to unwind with a healthy latte (you can’t beat the Chill Me Out, infused with ashwagandha and reishi), splurge on a zen massage and non-toxic mani, and pick up some new wellness goodies (think CBD supplements and skincare essentials) in the shop.”

– Jackie Homan, Editorial Assistant

3

New York Public Library

“There’s something I find incredibly soothing about the New York Public Library. I love the Beaux Arts architecture, the sky-high stacks of books, the tables filled with people reading, researching and studying—and the rooms are always so quiet.”

– Clara Sedlak, Executive Editor

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Diverse group of people enjoy day at the beach. People of all ages, sizes and color enjoy the beach. Rocking their swimsuits, bikinis and street wear.
4

Fort Tilden

"After a long work week, there’s nothing I love more than heading to the beach for some much needed rest. My go-to is usually Fort Tilden, a much chiller spot compared to neighboring Jacob Riis. I just pack my collapsible cooler full of beer, grab the perfect beach read, and spend the day doing nothing but lying in the sun."

– David Hattan, Photo Editor

Schooner ship in the harbor new the World Trade Center
5

Battery Park

"Finding relaxation in NYC isn't easy, and I’m still not sure I’ve found my favorite spot to kick back. But if I had to choose, I'd go with Battery Park. I love having the water on one side, and the looming domino-like buildings on the other. There’s always a slight breeze, too, which is a huge plus in the August heat."

– Tyler Schoeber, Production Specialist

Facial at Heyday NYC
6

Heyday

"When I need to unwind, my go-to places are the obvious ones—the Met, Prospect Park, or a movie at Nitehawk. But for the days when the regular spots just won’t cut it, I’ll treat myself to a facial at Heyday. The place has a holistic outlook on skincare, and they only use high-quality clean products. I always leave relaxed and much more educated about my skin, and with facials ranging from $65 to $140, this is one indulgence that I don’t have to feel guilty about."

– Gretchen Dorosz, Senior Photo Editor

Elizabeth Street Garden, NYC
7

Elizabeth Street Garden

"Elizabeth Street Garden is a gem. It’s a quirky little community garden in Nolita with sculptures and pockets of seating, and feels completely magical. When I’m in need of a little break, it's the perfect spot to go read for a while, with a cup of coffee in hand." 

– Saman Westberg, Style Editor at Large 

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