4 Best Wellness Experiences to Try in NYC

There are lots of fun ways to experience wellness in NYC, and it doesn’t have to cost money. Weaved into the hustle and bustle of the city, believe it or not — there are ways to find balance, experience nature, and connect with the mind, body, and spirit.

Rockaway Beach, Queens

Here are 4 great ways my favorite self-care-focused things to do in the city that never sleeps:

Relax at Rockaway Beach in Queens

Accessible to everyone, this is place that comes alive in the summer. You can take a day trip and get here by subway, a beach shuttle bus, or the ferry. The area has playgrounds and plenty of food options, including food trucks, bars, surfer shops, and a variety of other concessions. In case you didn't know, Rockaway Beach is the city's only legal surfing beach — so, bring your surfboard if you’ve got it.

Try a Walking Tour of Central Park

Whether you’re interested in the North Woods or the Conservatory Garden, these tours are absolutely free to the public and are an incredible way to spend your day in nature. Even if you’ve lived in the city for years, you’d be surprised at how much history and beauty is hiding in those mysterious pockets of the park that you haven’t explored yet. Central Park never gets old, so this is a great one to revisit time and time again. 

Visit the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx

This 250-acre site is an absolute joy to explore and won’t cost you a penny all day on Wednesdays and 9 AM - 10 AM on Saturdays. Roam the grounds and take in the calm of nature. 

Take a Free Yoga Class in Manhattan

At Yoga To The People, everyone is welcomed. The suggested donation is $10, but if you can’t make it happen, it’s never a problem. These vinyasa classes are filled with New Yorkers looking to connect with themselves and check out of the hustle for a solid hour. These classes never disappoint. 

Visit The High Line on the West Side of Manhattan

Find a bench and watch the sunset for oasis vibes within the city that never sleeps. If you happen to work nearby, it’s a great way to catch some vitamin D and check out in a good podcast on your lunch break. And, there’s an all-time favorite of New Yorkers — people watching! 

Looking for more activities, check out my top 8 insider picks and tips to help you enjoy NYC without breaking the bank.