person riding bike on path in sedona desert

Get your fitness on while exploring Sedona’s many natural wonders. (Photo: Getty Images)

Health + Fitness

Need a Change of Scene? Shake Up Your Wellness Routine on a U.S. Staycation

There’s nothing like a change of scenery to boost your sense of well-being, but you needn’t go far. Tap into wellness at these five staycation spots.

As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning any trips.

Sedona, Arizona

A two-hour drive (and a world away) from Phoenix, Sedona has the cure for whatever ails you — so many people claim.

Travelers come from all over the world to experience the healing energy of the area’s vortexes via meditation, yoga or other energy-clearing practices. But the sheer beauty of the red-rock landscape alone can be a balm to body and soul.

Several trails in and around Sedona showcase the best of its ragged spires and buttes, including the Scorpion-Pyramid Loop and Slim Shady, a favorite of mountain bikers. Hit up Thunder Mountain Bikes for a rental and guide recommendation.

Half Moon Bay, California

waves crashing along half moon bay coastline
Relax all your senses in Half Moon Bay. (Photo: Getty Images)

Just breathing in the crisp ocean air at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay does wonders for one’s well-being. From its oceanside bluff perch, the resort — a half-hour south of San Francisco — is the perfect base from which to explore the natural beauty of the rugged coast.

Roam Half Moon Bay State Beach or strike out on the Coastside Trail to Pillar Point to contemplate the waves at Mavericks Beach, the site of the annual big wave surf competition.

Soothe any sore muscles at The Ritz-Carlton Spa with a Redwoods Forest Ritual (read: a hot poultice massage with grounding herbs).

River North, Chicago

sunset over chicago skyline
Take time to unwind and treat yourself to self care in Chicago. (Photo: Getty Images)

A sweet spot between the Magnificent Mile and Millennium Park, Chicago’s River North neighborhood may not seem a likely place to find inner peace. But a personal spa day at the uber-chill Allyu could change that: The Amethyst package includes a sauna, massage, chakra balancing or reflexology, and a facial.

Take your newfound sense of calm over to The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, a few blocks away, and check into the rooftop glamping suite for unparalleled views of the city’s skyline.

Midtown Atlanta

sunset over atlanta
Atlanta’s wellness options may surprise you. (Photo: Getty Images)

Like an oasis in the desert, Midtown Atlanta’s 185-acre Piedmont Park is a lush respite in a sprawling landscape. It’s the perfect spot to clear your mind: Bike on the trails, visit the butterfly exhibit, or head over to the neighboring Atlanta Botanical Garden to see what’s blooming.

From the park’s southeast corner, hop on the city’s BeltLine and walk or bike to nearby Ponce City Market for a wealth of healthy eating options like Root Baking Co.’s grain salad. Or wind up at nearby 8ARM, a great spot for in-season vegetable plates and a glass of pét-nat, naturally sparkling wine.

Hudson, New York

Just a little more than a two-hour drive or train ride from New York City, Hudson is a peaceful town full of mind-clearing views of its namesake valley.

First things first: Revive your city self with a wellness shot at The Juice Branch or maybe a bowl of ginger chicken bone broth at Sonder Hudson, a small-plate restaurant and natural wine bar that sources most of its menu locally.

Artsy boutiques abound here — it’s not called the Brooklyn of the Hudson Valley for nothing — but be sure to indulge in some aromatherapy at local perfumery Source Adage and stock up on restorative elixirs (try the house dream tea) at The Quiet Botanist.

In the afternoon, amble over to Promenade Hill Park for a sweeping view of the valley and stay for a magnificent mountain sunset. For a full day of fresh air: A detour to Bear Mountain State Park and its 30-plus trails on your way back to the city is well worth it.