Who knew paradise was just a five-minute ferry ride from downtown Manhattan? On Governors Island, visitors seeking rest and rejuvenation can leave the city behind and enjoy a day of wellness at QC New York’s Italian-inspired Spa of Wonders. This July, the property unveils a new 15,000-square-foot expansion that includes Casa QC — a bistro with seating for 142 and an Italian-focused menu. Expect artisanal gelato, Taralli crackers with aged pecorino, and other light, flavor-forward offerings to complement the existing Flora Café.
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The expansion brings many new amenities and experiences for spa-goers to enjoy. In addition to the existing year-round pools and saunas, guests will find renovated themed rooms and more than a dozen wellness offerings. New features include cascading waterfalls, sensory saunas, a lavender room, a salt room, an ice chamber and a relaxation area outfitted with waterbeds. Visitors can choose entry options such as a five-hour Escape Entrance or a Sunset Entrance (5 to 10 p.m.), both of which provide access to pools, saunas, steam baths and quiet relaxation spaces. These packages include robes, sandals, towels, showers and body and skincare products; massages are available but should be reserved in advance.
“Our philosophy of inviting guests to slow down and get lost has made our locations in Italy and France a massive success, and it’s been rewarding to see New Yorkers wholeheartedly embrace this approach,” said Andrea Quadrio Curzio, CEO and co-founder of QC Spa of Wonders. “We’re excited to enhance the QC New York experience with the opening of our second building, which will provide even more opportunities for guests to unwind, escape and recharge. We aren’t interested in being a flash in the pan, so that means focusing on what the City needs: a luxuriously manicured backyard worth coming back to time and again — a place to relax where you get to make memories and rediscover joy.”
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More growth is on the horizon: a third building is planned to open in spring 2025.
Getting there is simple. Ferries depart from the Battery Maritime Building at 10 South Street year-round, with additional service available from Brooklyn. The spa sits on Andes Road, a short walk up the hill from Soissons Landing between Castle Williams and the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council Arts Center.