The best places to relax: New York Botanical Garden
Photograph: Mick Hales

The best places to relax in NYC

Unclench your teeth, unhunch your shoulders and follow our guide to lowering your stress level
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Looking for somewhere to unwind and escape from the busy streets of New York? Whether you are looking for a secluded, quiet spot or simply the best places to relax and chill out, there are lots of options within the five boroughs. Or, pack a bag for a relaxing weekend getaway outside the city.

Where to relax in NYC

Chill out
Things to do

Chill out

Find some inner peace and tranquility at these spots around the city. From parks and gardens to museums, these places are sure to help you chill...
Secluded spots
Things to do

Secluded spots

There’s no need to leave the five boroughs to get away from it all. New York’s parks and gardens offer cheap, easy trips to hidden spots of natural...
Find quiet
Things to do

Find quiet

If you're searching for a spot where you can shut out the noise of garbage trucks, screaming children (or adults) and the subway's screech—so,...

More places to find peace in NYC

Best spas
Health and beauty

Best spas

We've found the best spas and salons in New York to get primped and pampered at every price point, in every neighborhood. Whether you’re looking for...
Parks
Attractions

Parks

Take advantage of spring's warmer temperatures at ten of New York City's best public parks. New York City is full of public parks—in fact, nearly 14...
Museums
Museums

Museums

A New York museum trip shouldn't be saved for a rainy day: With specialties ranging from modern art to mathematics, sex to outer space, there a New York museum...
Escapes (get out of the city)
Travel

Escapes (get out of the city)

Escape the city at the drop of a sun hat with these weekend getaways, including easy day trips to classic summer destinations like the Hamptons and Fire...
Quiet bars
Bars

Quiet bars

Get away from the holiday hustle and bustle and post up at one of these quiet bars, which offer a relaxed vibe and great drinks. After a few weeks of holiday...
Spiritual events
Things to do

Spiritual events

Recharge your spiritual batteries with our Zen guide, featuring our pick of enlightening events in NYC. We love the socks off our crazy city, but sometimes New...