Quiet Escapes in Different NYC Neighborhoods
Whether it’s honking horns, emergency sirens, or neighborhood construction, living in New York City is nothing short of loud, congested—and at times—extremely overwhelming.
Although finding the perfect getaway may seem overwhelming, there are so many secluded spots in Manhattan that are perfect for peace, quiet, and pampering. And if you don’t feel like venturing far from your apartment, don’t worry. Below are six spots all throughout Manhattan that are quiet, welcoming, and perfect for relaxing.
east side
Paintbox nails
Neighborhood: Upper East Side
Address: 20 E 69th St, New York, NY 10021
Instagram: @paintboxnails
Tucked away just off Madison Ave sits the most beautiful, chic, and Instagram-worthy nail salon in New York City. Elevating every aspect of the manicure experience, Paintbox Nails preps, shapes, and personalizes your manicure design like no other salon in town.
Their curated seasonal look books are filled with a variety of different themes, patterns, asymmetrical shapes, and colors. Whenever I go to Paintbox Nails, I look forward to an hour of sitting back, listening to good music, and taking some time to just relax and unwind.
Offering an exceptional one-on-one manicures through their nail technicians as well as products, Paintbox Nails is the go-to place for pampering. Oh, and did I also mention they have a nail photo booth?
Ralph’s coffee
Neighborhood: Upper East Side
Address: 888 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10021
Instagram: @ralphscoffee
Starting the day right means having a cup of coffee in your hand—a cup of Ralph’s Coffee, that is. Located just one block from Central Park sits Ralph’s Coffee, the most elegant, welcoming, and aesthetically pleasing coffee shop on the Upper East Side.
From the bright green color scheme to the array of different drinks and pastries, Ralph’s Coffee is the perfect place to relax, read a book, journal, and spend quality time outside. And if retail therapy is your thing, Ralph’s Coffee has it all, as it is located just inside the Ralph Lauren women’s flagship store.
west side
Equinox Hotel
Neighborhood: Hudson Yards
Address: 33 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001
Instagram: @equinoxhotels
Planning the perfect “daycation” or “staycation” means spending time at The Equinox Hotel. If you're in search of a pampering body massage, a renewing facial, or a swim overlooking The Vessel at Hudson Yards, The Equinox Hotel is the perfect place for rest and relaxation. Whether you go solo or with a group of your closest friends, the luxury and relaxed environment will make you quickly forget you are in New York City.
Central Park
Neighborhood: West Side
Address: Central Park West, New York, NY
Instagram: @centralparknyc
If you are craving greenery, wildlife, and the sound of birds chirping, then Central Park is for you. Far away from the skyscrapers and taxi cabs, Central Park has the most amazing green meadows, gardens, fountains, and wildlife.
A day spent in Central Park can include a wide array of different stress-relieving activities: riding bikes, admiring sculptures, listening to live music, watching outdoor movies, exploring different trails, or even renting a rowboat. Central Park is the best and most beautiful break from the loud and busy city just outside of its borders.
downtown
Supermoon Bakehouse
Neighborhood: Lower East Side
Address: 120 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002
Instagram: @supermoonbakehouse
Nothing says self-care quite like a mascarpone-strawberry ‘cruffin’ (pictured below) from Supermoon Bakehouse. Offering the most unique and aesthetic selection of doughnuts, croissants, and even cronuts, Supermoon Bakehouse is your go-to bakery for handmade and carefully crafted pastries. Even more appealing and charming than the pastries is the interior design of the shop, designed by Aron Tzimas.
The spaceship-inspired decor includes soft gray walls, a light pink terrazzo slab, as well as an assortment of beautifully lit neon signs. Whether you are going to fulfill your sweet tooth or just looking for interior design inspiration, you simply owe it to yourself to visit Supermoon Bakehouse.
Bookmarc
Neighborhood: West Village
Address: 400 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Instagram: @thebookmarc
There’s no shame in being a bookworm. Back in 2010, when bookstores began to disappear from the global landscape, American fashion designer Marc Jacobs took matters into his own hands and designed his own concept of a bookstore.
Bookmarc, which is located on the corner of Bleeker and W 11th Street, is filled with coffee table books, Marc Jacobs trinkets, fine art, and great music. This is the ideal spot to kick back and get lost in an amazing book. Bookmarc offers so many truly special things to so many people.
These are just six of my favorite spots across Manhattan that will provide you peace, rest, and relaxation. Whether it’s hours of homework or overtime at work, these spots are your best bet for a stress-free and relaxing environment.
Where is your favorite escape in New York City? Comment down below!