For Allen’s birthday a couple years ago, we decided to do something a little different: a relaxing afternoon at QC NY Spa on Governors Island. If you didn’t know, QC offers free admission on your birthday, which made it an easy “yes” for us. I’d been curious about the spa for a while—floating between the buzz on Instagram and the dreamy skyline photos.

We arrived in the afternoon, ferrying over to the island and walking into the spa’s serene (but surprisingly lively) grounds. The atmosphere was unmistakably European-inspired, with several indoor and outdoor relaxation rooms, saunas, and foot baths scattered around a sprawling estate. Everything felt thoughtfully designed—each room had its own vibe, scent, and aesthetic.

We grabbed a light lunch from the spa’s bistro, which offered small bites and drinks with a view. Nothing fancy, but it hit the spot without weighing us down. They also had a live jazz band which was nice to listen to while we relaxed. The highlight for me was spending the evening outdoors in the heated pools, watching the city slowly light up as the sun set behind the skyline. Manhattan at dusk from a hot tub? Yes, please.

That said, there was one downside: the phones. Everyone—and I do mean everyone—was filming, posing, taking selfies, and recording reels. Guilty as charged, I snapped a few photos too (how could I not?), but it did take away from the tranquility you might expect at a spa. It felt more like a social scene than a place to truly unplug.

All in all, I really enjoyed the experience—the unique layout, the views, the novelty of being on Governors Island—but I wouldn’t call it my favorite spa in the city. It’s definitely one to try at least once, especially on your birthday (can’t beat free!), but if you’re looking for a more serene or private escape, you might want to look elsewhere.

Would I go back? Maybe. Would I recommend it to a friend visiting New York or looking for a fun spa day with views and vibes? Absolutely.