Indulge in calming treatments at stylish spas, get inspired with a new look from expert stylists and engage in mood-boosting exercise in Alexandria, Virginia, minutes from Washington, D.C. With a robust wellness scene in Old Town, Del Ray and beyond, plus acres of parks and 18 miles of waterfront trails, Alexandria is a health and self-care destination. Whether you’re looking to slow your breathing or pump up your heartrate, explore this guide to the city’s spas, salons and fitness spots.

Please be sure to note the health and safety protocols in place at each of the below businesses prior to visiting.

Have a Spa Day

Treat yourself to a pampering experience at one of these made-for-relaxing oases:

Chrysalis Chiropractic: Find spinal relief at Chrysalis Chiropractic via a variety of natural solutions from Dr. Lola and Dr. David Capps’s Del Ray practice.

Kimpton Lorien Hotel & Spa: Alexandria’s only hotel spa is an urban retreat that soothes away stress with treatments like the “Ultimate Zen Body Experience” and “Rose Quartz Massage,” quick pick-me-ups like the “Instant Glow Facial” and perk-filled monthly memberships.

Fountains Day Spa: Fountains Day Spa, set in a sunny, centuries-old townhouse, offers the best in skin and body therapies, from couples massages to specialized hand and feet treatments like reflexology.

Sugar House Day Spa and Salon: Located in a 19^th-century sugar refinery, Sugar House Day Spa and Salon offers an opulent selection of treatments, from organic facials to aromatherapy massages to extra-sweet packages like the “Slice of Heaven.”

Synergy Float Center: Veteran-owned Synergy Float Center provides a one-of-a-kind way to wind down through floatation therapy. Hover in an Epsom salt bath, inspired by the mineral-rich Dead Sea, and sense your brainwave patterns slowing so you can utterly unwind.

Tranquil Healthcare: Located in Del Ray, Tranquil Healthcare is a female-owned and operated nurse practitioner practice of integrative medicine for mental health, wellness and anti-aging services such as microneedling, Botox and filler, IV nutritional therapy treatments and much more.

Your Life Energy Holistic Center: Known for its warm and welcoming staff, Your Life Energy Holistic Center offers top-notch skin care, body treatments and energy healing treatments such as Reiki therapy and massages.

Upgrade Your Look at Hair and Makeup Studios

Add some extra pep to your step with anything from a new signature lip color to a stunning blowout after a visit to one of these Alexandria hair and makeup salons:

Bellacara: Schedule a makeup session at Bellacara, Alexandria’s premier beauty boutique offering high-end cosmetic, skin and hair care products, including brands like Westman Atelier, Bumble & Bumble, Skinceuticals, Dermalogica and more.

Cualtzin Salon: Named after the Aztec word for “gorgeous,” Cualtzin Salon is a sustainable beauty destination on King Street with an eco-friendly approach to helping you look your best.

Envy Us Beauty Supply: Find all your beauty needs at Envy Us Beauty Supply, owner Aesha Ray’s S. Van Dorn St. shop specializing in hair care, skin care, cosmetics, hair extensions and accessories with a large selection of Black-owned beauty brands.

Hazel O. Salon: Hazel O. Salon is an urban beauty oasis with a sleek, sophisticated interior and staff experienced in styling diverse hair types and textures.

Holistic Hair Studio: Treat your tresses at Holistic Hair Studio, an Old Town salon utilizing 100% organic, free trade and vegan products.

Salon deZEN: Salon deZEN’s artsy, inclusive atmosphere will put you at ease as their skilled stylists help your identity shine through on the outside, offering classic cuts as well as unique application services like fluid hair painting.

Stylists at North: Feel yourself unwind as soon as you enter Stylists at North’s nurturing yet luxe Old Town space, providing everything from talented stylists to procured wines and custom teas.

Boost Your Workout with Fitness Studios, Rentals and Tours

From cycling to yoga, here’s where to get an endorphin boost in Alexandria:

Get Fit Studio: Get Fit Studio is an Old Town fitness boutique specializing in HIIT and strength training, providing one-on-one and small-group training as well as group sessions across levels.

Pacers Running: Pacers Running’s flagship Old Town location provides everything from top-notch shoes to daily social runs.

Pedego Electric Bikes: Pedego Electric Bikes lets riders of wide-ranging abilities cruise through the city and surrounding area on 2- to 3-hour guided tours. Take the Old Town at Night tour for sweeping views of the city lights while crossing the Woodrow Wilson Bridge or head into D.C. for views of our nation’s capital.

Unlimited Biking: Start an active adventure at Unlimited Biking and explore the city on two wheels. For the ultimate Alexandria experience, rent an electric or regular bike for the seasonal Mount Vernon by Bike & Boat package.

Wheel Nuts Bike Shop: Located steps from the Mount Vernon Trail, Wheel Nuts Bike Shop is the perfect spot to rent a bike, pick up parts or receive repairs from the friendly staff.

From yoga studios to waterfront paths, there are plenty of other ways to stay healthy in Alexandria. Learn more.

Header Image Credit: A. Marie Imagery