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, here’s your guide to the city’s spas, salons and fitness spots.

Have a Spa Day

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

Kimpton Lorien Hotel & Spa: Voted one of Northern Virginia’s Best Spas in 2019, 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: Also a top regional 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.

Izalia Laser Hair Removal and Rejuvenation Spa: Izalia specializes in aesthetic energy devices, making it your go-to spot for everything from pre-vacation primping to a broad menu of cosmetic treatments.

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 flotation 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.

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 Kiehl’s, Bumble & Bumble, Smashbox, 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.

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.

Salon deZEN: Named a Best Salon in Northern Virginia, 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.

Boost Your Workout with Fitness Studios, Rentals and Tours

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

Bike & Roll: Start your active adventure at Bike & Roll 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.

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. A 2020 remodel, during which the store will remain open, promises to elevate Pacers Running into a showpiece for specialty stores nationwide prior to the Parkway Classic on April 26, 2020.

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.

Sand and Steel Fitness: At its new location on Eisenhower Avenue, Sand and Steel Fitness provides high-quality personal training to reach your goals, as well as group classes from yoga to CrossFit.

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