Hotel Spas for Ultimate Pampering

18 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014 (map)

Like most everything in the Meatpacking District, this smoldering spa seems designed with an eye towards socializing rather than escaping. Nevertheless, a steam room, full salon, hydrotherapy pool deck and edibles courtesy of the hotel's upscale Ono restaurant make the Gansevoort a nice choice for the socialite spa-goer. Put your new look to good use at the hotel's rooftop bar, Plunge, or head out to one of the neighborhood's other swanky spots.

50 Central Park S, New York, NY 10019 (map)

The Swiss skincare line's first foray into the U.S. spa market is far superior to the typical hotel salon. The feeling of relaxed, upscale elegance abounds, as does distinctive detailing in a space that's tucked away in the Ritz-Carlton Central Park. Locker-room amenities, from toothbrushes to irons, anticipate every need; clients choose their own mood music, with CD requests noted for future visits; and complimentary snacks and beverages (from tea to champagne) are always just an order away.

57 E 57th St, New York, NY 10022 (map)

Experience quality services at jet-setter prices inside the deluxe hotel chain's midtown Manhattan branch. The menu of services includes standard upscale-spa fare, plus a few unusual twists like acupressure with back-walking, in which the therapist literally walks all over you (while holding onto parallel bars affixed to the ceiling).

150 E 34th St, New York, NY 10016 (map)

Soothe your spirit at this well-appointed day spa in Murray Hill, where calming music and burning candles set a relaxed tone in the lounge, and spacious treatment rooms with comfy layers of bedding put spa-goers at ease. A plethora of relaxing, rejuvenating treatments are available, including a lengthy menu of facials and massages. Fitness facilities, a private yoga room and personal Pilates instruction are also offered.

80 Columbus Cir, 35th Fl, New York, NY 10023 (map)

From the sparkling amethyst steam room and the initial soothing foot soaks to a final cool-down in the relaxation lounge, deep journeys of inner calm justify the splurge at this Eastern escape. Extras like the Thai Yoga Suite, the Oriental Tea Lounge and spa cuisine round out the sense of absolute luxury. For a romantic Gotham getaway, book the VIP spa suite; it's designed like an Asian home, with a canopy bed, fireplace, private steam room, elevated bath and amazing views.

301 Park Ave, New York, NY 10022 (map)

A classic salon set among the opulent shops and milling tourists of the storied Waldorf-Astoria lobby. Subdued and proper, the salon menu features a lengthy list of salon and nail services, in addition to makeup, waxing and facials. And in keeping with the old-school chic vibe, stylists will make house calls for clients willing to pay a steep hourly rate to have their hair or nails done at home.

700 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019 (map)

Take the Peninsula Hotel elevator 21 floors up to reach this sophisticated, labyrinthine spa that's adored by the fabulous set for its superior service, inviting swimming pool, workout facilities, open-air patio, sauna, and steam and wet rooms. Customization is key (facials can involve as many as 12 steps), and personalized services can be "invented" to meet clients' unique needs.