Look, no one loves New York City more than us. That said, sometimes city living can take it out of you, so much so that you require an urgent getaway to rejuvenate your senses. This is where Upstate New York comes in. Located hardly a couple of hours from NYC, the Upstate is all about lush greenery, fashionable attire, and huge resorts with all creature comforts lying practically in the middle of nowhere. How about relaxing and unwinding at NY spa hotels in Upstate New York? Watch your troubles evaporate with the steam rising from the hot tubs at the best stress-relieving Upstate NY spa resorts, which also provide a rich range of experiences. Think about everything from hiking and boating to soul-refreshing treatments using local ingredients. From all-inclusive resorts with full-service spas to nature-ensconced wellness retreats, spa weekend getaways in Upstate NY have never looked better!
Since Upstate New York lies just two hours north of New York City, you don’t need to drive a lot to soak your sore muscles in a decadent hot tub overlooking a lush forest. To that end, here are the best spa hotels in Upstate New York, NY.
Table of contents
- Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa, Lake Placid
- Whiteface Lodge, Lake Placid
- Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, Hamptons
- Mirbeau Inn and Spa Skaneateles
- Gideon Putnam Resort & Spa, Saratoga Springs
- The Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown
- The Mosey Buffalo Williamsville Tapestry Collection by Hilton
- Rochester Airport Marriott
- Turning Stone Resort & Casino, Verona
- Vinifera Inn, Belhurst Castle, Finger Lakes
- Del Lago Resort & Casino
- Our Verdict
- Where to Stay in Upstate New York
- What is the most famous spa in New York?
- What is the price for spa resorts in New York?
Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa, Lake Placid
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The most unique spa treatments. Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa is one of the swankiest and most popular spa hotels in Upstate New York. The stately white Adirondack property is like something out of a dream, sitting on a lushly landscaped private beachfront right on Mirror Lake. With mountains on the one side and the lake on the other, the resort offers superb views of the surroundings.
The spa is one of the best in the region, offering a variety of mani-pedis, facials, and body scrubs. No wonder this place is considered one of the best spa resorts in Upstate New York! Done up in mahogany and marble, the plush spa has steam rooms, whirlpools, and even a fireplace. Couples on a romantic getaway can go for the “Couples Getaway” package, which includes side-by-side pedicures and massages. Are you here to get away from the hectic bustle? The “Ultimate Renewal” package has a shampoo, massage, and facial.
If you want to try something new, the CBD Healing Pedicure uses cannabis compound-infused lotion to relieve the sore, aching muscles via a foot and leg massage. Besides the spa, the year-round destination also has three restaurants and a host of activities, including swimming, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and even winter sports, including dog sledding on the frozen lake! Did you know that Mirror Lake Inn Resort is also amongst the Best Boutique Hotels in Upstate New York? Yes!
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Whiteface Lodge, Lake Placid
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Best for families. Yet another Lake Placid Hotel makes it to the list of the best spa hotels in Upstate NY – this time, it’s the Whiteface Lodge. Travelers looking to relax truly will love the acclaimed 8,000-square-foot huge spa set in a rustic yet tranquil setting. In fact, Conde Nast Traveler called it one of the “Top 100 Spas in North America!” The Spa at Whiteface Lodge offers a bevy of treatments inspired by the Adirondacks, such as the highly-popular Apple Cider Massage & Masque. Make sure that you dedicate at least half a day to the spa experience, so you can also spend time in the eucalyptus room. After your treatment, hang around for a relaxing dip in the heated indoor-outdoor pool or the hot tub.
Since the lodge has such an “upscale camp” feeling, it’s very popular with bridal parties and large groups who want to enjoy a relaxing and luxurious getaway. The accommodations take it a step further, with jetted tubs in the bathrooms and outdoor porches overlooking the greenery. During summers, you can even hike the trails nearby or take yoga classes on the shores of Lake Placid. Are you here in the winter? Hit the slopes for a bout of skiing or snowshoeing.
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Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, Hamptons
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Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa is one of the chicest coastal spa hotels in Upstate New York. One of Hamptons’ largest year-round resorts, this hotel is home to the Seawater Spa, which is the closest thing America has to a thalassotherapy spa. Gurney calls it a ‘seawater sanctuary,’ and rightly so. Spend an entire day here flitting between the Swiss shower, Russian steam room, Finnish rock sauna, and the decadent Roman bath. To top that, none of these is the spa’s most impressive amenity – it’s the world-famous indoor pool, actually! The pool is filled with heated, sand-filtered seawater that’s directly drawn in from the Montauk coast. Sigh.
After a refreshing swim, relax on the sleek loungers surrounding the pool, with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Plus, the spa can also draw up a customized thalassotherapy program for you for weight loss and detoxification. Phew! Besides the spa, the hotel boasts rooms and suites with million-dollar sea views. Wrapping up the amenities are the two trendy restaurants, a cocktail bar, a coffee shop, and a revamped beach club. The top-notch amenities justify Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, among the most excellent spa resorts in Upstate New York.
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Mirbeau Inn and Spa Skaneateles
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Mirbeau Inn and Spa Skaneateles is one of the most charming spa hotels in Upstate NY. Travelers who want to steer clear of larger resorts will love this charming 34-room inn, which is a slice of the French countryside in Upstate NY. It sits at the northern tip of the gorgeous Lake Skaneateles in Finger Lakes and resembles Monet’s Garden.
The spa, which is designed by Sylvia Sepielli, is an extension of the inn and is just as gorgeous. What’s more, it features 14 treatment rooms, with fireplaces in most of them. What’s more, treatments range from deep tissue massages and intraceutical facials to “Monet’s Favorite Fragrance Massages,” which is a scented Swedish massage. Later on, soak your sore muscles at the heated whirlpool in the Aqua Terrace while enjoying a drink. Or, you could indulge in a Eucalyptus-scented steam room session.
The distinctly European flair continues in the rest of the inn, which has warm, yellow buildings and a pond with a green bridge – a picture-perfect sight, indeed. Enjoy a fine steakhouse meal paired with excellent wines from the wineries nearby.
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Gideon Putnam Resort & Spa, Saratoga Springs
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The most historical. Gideon Putnam Resort & Spa is one of the best spa hotels in Upstate New York. This historic, 18th-century Saratoga Springs hotel is home to the luxurious Roosevelt Baths & Spa. This transforming hydrotherapy spa employs natural mineral water from the famous underground springs in the city for its signature brand of aquatic bliss.
However, the pampering doesn’t quite end there. A wealth of spa services, such as body wraps, scrubs, facials, and massages, await you. Do try their Muscadine Moonshine sea salt scrub paired with the green gemstone clay body masque. You’ll leave the spa with your skin feeling super silky and soft and less stressed!
You’ll love the rooms and suites at this Georgian Revival-style resort, which overlooks the lush landscaped gardens the resort sits in. A fabulous restaurant with a wonderful patio for alfresco summer meals completes the place.
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The Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown
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The Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown is an iconic landmark in the gorgeous Otsego County. This beautiful hotel has been a part of the Cooperstown area since 1909. It offers some of the best accommodations in the area. You can enjoy stunning views of Lake Otsego, golfing at the Leatherstocking Golf Course, and access the nationally recognized Clark Sports Center.
This is home to one of the best spas in the region. The on-site Hawkeye Spa offers a variety of treatments, massages, and more to help you relax and rejuvenate. Naturopathica skin care products are used for all treatments. The spa staff is knowledgeable and friendly. They’ll make sure that you have the best experience possible. Moreover, you get to enjoy the indoor pool and a peaceful atmosphere.
Choose from various room types, including lake-view rooms, suites, and traditional rooms. All rooms have modern amenities, such as flat-screen TVs, elegant bathrooms, and fast Wi-Fi connection. Besides, you get to enjoy the outdoor patio. No wonder The Otesaga Resort Hotel is one of the most excellent spa resorts in Upstate New York, with stunning views and top-notch amenities. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or a fun-filled adventure, The Otesaga Resort Hotel has something for everyone.
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The Mosey Buffalo Williamsville Tapestry Collection by Hilton
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The Mosey Buffalo Williamsville Tapestry Collection Hilton is one of the most stunning spa hotels in Upstate NY in the heart of Buffalo. Nestled in a quaint residential neighborhood, it provides a unique and relaxing atmosphere. With its state-of-the-art amenities and unparalleled service, the Mosey Buffalo Williamsville Tapestry Collection Hilton is the ideal destination for a luxurious escape.
The hotel’s Tres Auraé Spa is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. It offers treatments, including massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures. You can also enjoy a state-of-the-art Medi spa from Dr Samuel Shatkin Jr. All the packages are designed to provide total relaxation and well-being. This is where you get to immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience of spa resorts in Upstate New York without paying the premium price.
This hotel also features an on-site fitness center equipped with the latest gym equipment. Besides, you can also take advantage of the heated pool and hot tub. After a day of relaxation and pampering, enjoy delicious American cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant.
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Rochester Airport Marriott
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The Rochester Airport Marriott is a charming hotel near the Greater Rochester International Airport. Enjoy a relaxation room, a steam sauna, aromatherapy, and massage therapy. The relaxation room provides a tranquil atmosphere to unwind, while the steam sauna helps to detoxify the body. The aromatherapy treatments use essential oils to help reduce stress. And massage therapy helps relax muscle tension. It’s the best choice among all spa hotels in Upstate NY near the airport.
On top of that, there are various dining options, including an on-site restaurant, a cafe, and a bar. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from steaks and seafood to vegetarian options. For a more casual atmosphere, enjoy a cup of coffee at the café. Don’t worry about the calories. The hotel also offers a fitness center with a wide range of equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, and weight machines. Besides, you can pick one of the classes, from yoga to Pilates, to help you stay in shape.
This hotel offers luxurious accommodations with a spacious work desk and ergonomic chair. Enjoy a good night’s sleep in the hotel’s plush beds with pillowtop mattresses and comforters. Or upgrade to a suite to enjoy a separate living room with a sofa bed. In the morning, enjoy a gorgeous view from your private patio.
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Turning Stone Resort & Casino, Verona
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For a different and rather unique spa experience, head to the Turning Stone Resort and Casino. One of the best spa hotels in Upstate New York, this Mohawk Valley resort is owned by the Oneida tribe. In fact, the surrounding region was called the Leatherstocking region in the famed 1826 novel, The Last of the Mohicans! It’s home to the decadent Skana Spa, which is the Oneida word for “peace.” The massive 33,000-square-foot huge spa and salon has 12 treatment rooms and is a tribute to Oneida architecture. If you’re headed here in the fall, go for the Pumpkin Pie mani-pedi, which features a sweet cream exfoliating scrub and a warm pumpkin soak. It ends with a restorative massage of the feet, legs, and hands, complete with perfectly painted nails.
Naturally, Skana is expensive. But, the resort has another spa, the more affordable Ahsi Day Spa and Salon. It also offers a host of amazing skincare services, facials, body scrubs, massages, and more. The casino, the fitness club, and a range of accommodations, including a seasonal RV park, complete this place.
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Vinifera Inn, Belhurst Castle, Finger Lakes
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Best value for money. There are few things cooler than staying the night in a 19th-century castle, i.e. when it comes along with decadent spa treatments! Welcome to Vinifera Inn, part of the Belhurst Castle, one of the best spa hotels in Upstate NY. It’s home to the Isabella Spa and Salon, which uses products from the Eminence Organic Skincare line, which is a natural, results-driven skincare line.
What’s more, they offer a selection of signature spa treatments, helping you feel as nice and lovely as your surroundings. We’d recommend the 50-minute Isabella Signature Facial, which is essential for skincare needs, plus eye care with added exfoliation. You get to choose between our four skincare collections for a result that’s customized to and works for your skin.
Each room at Vinifera Inn features a flat-screen TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. But who needs a TV when you have spectacular views of Seneca Lake from your private balcony? Besides, the hotel also has a cozy lounge and bar area with various craft beers and wines from the region.
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Del Lago Resort & Casino
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Del Lago Resort & Casino is a world-class destination for entertainment and relaxation. It’s the top among all the spa resorts in Upstate New York. You can enjoy various amenities here, including a full-service spa, fitness center, pool, and dining options. The casino features over 1700 slot machines, 60 table games, and poker tables.
Immerse yourself in the lavish spa experience with massages, therapies, and treatments. You get to choose between Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and herbal detox massages. Besides, there’s a range of facial and body treatments, such as LED light therapy and waxing. Moreover, the on-site salon offers various services, including hair styling, manicures, pedicures, and make-up application. The best thing is to enjoy a relaxation lounge to spend time between treatments.
This hotel remains one of the finest spa hotels in Upstate New York that boasts more than 200 luxury rooms and suites, each with its own unique décor and amenities. The resort is also home to various entertainment, including live performances and comedy shows. Need more options for entertainment? Bars and lounges are also available.
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Our Verdict
While the Del Lago Resort & Casino sits at the top of the list of best spa hotels in Upstate New York doesn’t mean the other hotels lack the criteria. Del Lago Resort & Casino is strong in many points. But the other options may suit different categories, depending on your travel style and preferences. Let’s break down the list into different best hotels according to their strongest suit:
- Best value for money: Vinifera Inn
- Best for families: Whiteface Lodge
- Most unique spa treatments: Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa
- Most historical: Gideon Putnam Resort & Spa
Where to Stay in Upstate New York
Upstate New York is a sprawling place with many charming cities and all the more quaint towns that lie along the Hudson River. So, deciding where you should stay during your spa cation in Upstate New York is important. Firstly, there’s the most famous and popular region of Upstate, the Catskills. It has cute little towns such as Verona to explore, and you can also spend the day indulging in outdoor activities such as hiking. Secondly, there’s the Adirondacks, which makes for the perfect rustic and bucolic getaway since it’s more remote than most of the other places in Upstate. Also, the word ‘vacation’ comes from the Adirondacks!
The most amazing place of all is the stunning Hudson Valley, which boasts the most incredible food and drink scene in all of Upstate. What’s more, culture vultures will love exploring quaint towns such as Finger Lakes after a reinvigorating spa session. Culture vultures will also love Saratoga, which is all about entertainment and the arts. Are you a water bum and want to indulge in all sorts of water activities? Then Finger Lakes is the place for you, as it has all sorts of activities, such as swimming in waterfalls, fishing, boating, and more. At the end of the day, indulge in boozy libations at Seneca Lake at one of the many lakeside wineries.
Finally, if you’re in Seneca Lake, then don’t miss visiting one of the World’s Most Amazing Waterfalls, Niagara Falls! One of the USA’s Top Tourist Attractions lies merely two hours from Finger Lakes.
What is the most famous spa in New York?
Being one of the oldest hotels in New York makes Gideon Putnam Resort & Spa one of the most famous in town. They are known for the Roosevelt Baths & Spa. This transforming hydrotherapy spa employs natural mineral water from the famous underground springs in the city for its signature brand of aquatic bliss.
What is the price for spa resorts in New York?
Spa hotels in Upstate NY usually charge around 100 USD per night, excluding the cost of spa treatments you choose. The rate may double if you opt to stay at one of the best spa resorts in Upstate New York.