Before heading to my conference in New York, I decided to carve out some time for myself and check out Bathhouse NYC. I was also curious to see if it would be a great add-on option for a retreat in the city. As someone who plans events and curates experiences, I’m always looking for unique ways to offer relaxation and connection—whether as part of a retreat itinerary or even as a special client gift.

The moment I stepped inside Bathhouse, I could tell this wasn’t just another spa—it was a thoughtfully designed escape from the city’s chaos. Checking in was effortless, and the staff was welcoming and attentive. I had prepaid (which ranges from $50 to $80 depending on when you book), so entry was smooth, and from there, the experience was mine to enjoy at my own pace.

The star of the show? The thermal pools. There are five pools, including two cold plunge pools, two hot pools, and a Whirlpool jacuzzi, plus a main temperature-controlled pool. The contrast between the hot and cold plunges was invigorating—shocking at first but incredibly rejuvenating once I settled in.

Then, there are the saunas: a hot sauna and a wet sauna. Sitting in the sauna, breathing deeply, and just being present was a much-needed reset. One thing I truly appreciated was the option for quiet space in the sauna, there was an unspoken rule of no conversation, and it was wonderful. I spent my time going back and forth between the pools and the sauna. I created my own personal circuit of visiting each pool and sauna, but I will admit I skipped the cold plunge. I dipped my toe in it, and could not handle going in further.

I love when a space anticipates your needs, and Bathhouse does just that. They provide towels, flip-flops, and a locker, though I’d recommend bringing your own towel if you like something a bit larger. The showers were equipped with amenities like shower soap, shampoo and conditioner, perfect finish after cycling through the hot and cold treatments. The entire space was immaculately clean, with staff constantly tidying and ensuring a smooth experience.

The Bathhouse is a co-ed space where you can socialize or seek solitude. You’re free to chat and unwind with friends, but there are designated quiet areas to retreat to. The ambiance is lively but not overwhelming, and they thoughtfully limit the number of appointments per hour, so it never feels overcrowded. It’s a great option if you looking to schedule self-care under your own terms.

Once you’re inside, you can stay as long as you’d like, though re-entry isn’t allowed. Whether you want a quick rejuvenation or an all-day wellness retreat, the flexibility is a huge plus. There’s even a café on-site, perfect for grabbing a light bite anytime during your stay.

After my experience, I can absolutely see how Bathhouse NYC could be a fantastic excursion for a retreat. It’s an ideal way to incorporate relaxation, wellness, and a bit of luxury into an itinerary. Plus, they offer gift cards, making it a great option for a client gift or a sponsored client experience. If you’re looking for a unique way to show appreciation to clients or add a high-end wellness component to an event, this could be a perfect fit.

If you’re considering adding something like this to a retreat or client experience, I can help with the planning process. Whether it's arranging a group visit, coordinating a sponsored experience, or incorporating it into a larger event, there are plenty of ways to make it special.

I left feeling refreshed, recharged, and excited about the possibilities. If you’re in New York and need a break from the hustle, Bathhouse NYC is definitely worth a visit. I give it 5 out of 5 stars. There are two locations. I visited the location Manhattan, but there’s also a location in Brooklyn.