Best Spa Days In The DMV
Lifestyle
Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean the relaxation always comes easy. Dreaming about a day of TLC all to yourself? Your wellbeing is in good hands.
From luxurious spas to efficiently refreshing treatments, here’s where to go (and what to choose) for the best spa experience in DC today.
#1 Salamander Resort: Beyond the luxe accommodations and sprawling grounds that include an equestrian center, many would argue that Salamander’s spa is the resort’s real draw. The space offers private treatment terraces, lounging areas, and a spa courtyard with an infinity pool, hot tubs, a fire pit, and cabanas.
#2 Four Seasons: Since the Four Seasons is where many high-profile visitors stay while in town, the spa has more than mastered the art of discretion. Visitors can unwind with wine, indulge in any one of their antioxidant-rich treatments, opt for a rejuvenating facial, and complete the experience with a glass of chardonnay.
#3 Argentta Spa at the Watergate: Here, you can enjoy a saltwater lap pool, whirlpool, and sauna/steam rooms. Just know that those amenities are also available to hotel guests, meaning the shared luxuries can get crowded at peak times.
#4 Ritz-Carlton: If you’d like to combine a spa day with shopping, the Ritz in Tysons is convenient; its well-appointed spa has a steam room, sauna, pool, and Jacuzzi. Or try the Spa at the Ritz-Carlton in Georgetown, which offers free valet parking.
#5 The Spas At The InterContinentals: Both InterContinental hotels in DC (the Willard and the Wharf) have spas, and both got rebrands recently. The matching, simplified menus list just one or two of each type of treatment (massage, facial, pedicure, etc) with various add-ons for customization (dry-brush exfoliation, aromatherapy, hot stones). The spaces are straightforward, too: Both have relaxation lounges with chaises, cucumber water, magazines, and conveniently-placed locker rooms.
➤ Looking for more ways to unwind in DC? Check out these posts for more creative ways to kickstart your self-care:
#6 Woodhouse: There are plenty of thoughtful details at this hideaway just off Rockville Pike. Though the changing room is snug, the lowlit and spacious “quiet room” offers a wide array of magazines—plus a tray of reading glasses. Chaise longues are stacked with thick blankets, and there’s a nice selection of teas, along with a bowl of chocolate truffles. Facials use top-notch Skinceuticals products, and our tester’s aesthetician doled out plenty of skin-care tips that didn’t involve an upsell. Another nice touch: At the end of a treatment, you’re ushered back to the plush relaxation area and offered a complimentary mimosa or glass of sparkling wine.
#7 Bluebell Spa: This popular spa in northern DC has been in operation for the last 6 years, and is known for its premium services and non-premium prices. Their signature massage employs Swedish massage techniques, and promises to be ideal for relaxation, stress relief, and pain alleviation. From Monday through Thursday, you can book a 45-minute session for $85. You’ll also get 15% off list prices if you buy a package of six massages of any kind (including deep tissue, sports, prenatal, reflexology, hot stones, Thai, and trigger point). Plus, the spa offers beauty services such as acne treatment, facials (for men and women), and LED light therapy.
#8 Aura Spa: While there are a number of Aura Spa locations throughout DC today, our go-to is the Logan Circle branch, which offers massages, facials, and waxing services, as well as a sauna, steam room, and fuel bar (featuring RD-approved smoothie options) for long days of relaxation. Aura offers special pricing on packages of six sessions; for example, a six-pack of 75-minute therapeutic massage costs $120 per session.
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