5 Affordable Ways to Pamper and Recharge Yourself in New York City

Call me crazy, but getting my eyebrows threaded is relaxing. {credit}

The Metropolitan Museum
I’m a bit of an art and history buff, so I love checking out museums. What’s wonderful about this city is that there’s a plethora of museums that have designated “free” days during the week or a standing “suggested donation” policy – aka, you pay whatever you want. 

My favorite museum is the Metropolitan since I’m a fan of painters like Monet, Degas, and Da Vinci. There’s something very relaxing, at least in my mind, about being surrounded by impressionist paintings and relics from ancient Egypt. It’s such a vast space that people can visit several times without seeing all of the exhibits, which is why I’m making it a point to periodically visit when I have a midday break in my schedule.

Cost: Up to you!

Brunch at the Parlor Steakhouse
I’ll admit it – if I go out on a Saturday night, I probably won’t get home until 5 a.m. on Sunday morning. So I’m not a regular patron of New York’s Sunday brunch scene. On the rare occasion when I’m awake at the appropriate time, however (as in once a year), it’s always enjoyable. 

Recently, I went to the Upper East Side’s Parlor Steakhouse with my friends Erin and Rae, and I can’t say enough about this place. The city has several great affordable brunch options, but I love the Parlor’s sophisticated yet relaxing ambiance. The prix fixe menu includes an entrée, and even though it’s not an “all you can drink” type of deal, you can have up to five cocktails. Good enough for me. I’m a fan of the Eggs Benedict (best I’ve had in NYC) and the mimosas don’t skimp on the alcohol.

Cost: $29

Mimosas are a must with any NYC brunch.

Spa Services
I grew up where $20 manicures and $40 pedicures were considered a good deal. So imagine my surprise when I moved to New York and realized I didn’t have to pay more than $30 for a mani/pedi combo. I often do my own nails, so this is a rare treat; but it’s a very affordable one.

I also love websites like Lifebooker and Gilt, where I can receive discounts on a wide variety of spa services. We’re talking one-hour massages for $39, facials for $35, and Brazilian bikini waxes for $30 or less (granted, a bikini wax isn’t always “that” relaxing). 

Cost: Varies

Dangerfield’s Comedy Club
Rae and I always say that laughter is the best medicine, and one of my favorite places to go on the weekend is Dangerfield’s – the country’s original comedy club. The host happens to be a dear friend of mine, but anyone can see the show by going to their website and printing out free cover charge vouchers (although there’s a two drink minimum). I can be found at Dangerfield’s bar, drinking vodka sodas and laughing with the comedians at least once a month.

Cost: Free (plus two drink minimum)

I like to laugh off my stress at Dangerfield’s. {credit}