02/20/08

In Heat
The Hot List: Hot Tubs

On a day like today when winter starts to show its teeth, you head for hot water, preferably contained in a tub of some kind. And since you're the discerning type, we've done the legwork for you, wrinkling ourfingers in every jacuzzi, spa, tub and bath in New York to bring you the definitive list. Behold: the fivebest hot tubs in the city.

The View

Rooftop Jacuzzi on LES

Although this penthouse has floor-to-ceiling windows and a view stretching from NJ to BK, the main attraction here isn't in the suite, it's on the suite. Located on the 20th floor, this 8-person outdoor jacuzzi is right by the edge and under the stars. So if you splash, it's going all the way down.

411:: 411: Hotel on Rivington, Penthouse Suite, 107 Rivington St (between Ludlow and Essex), 212-475-2600; For picture, click here.

The Shower

Presidential Bathroom in Columbus Circle

The tub (suitable for two, depending on how well you know each other) is accompanied by a classic view of Central Park. The large shower compartment turns into your own personal steam room, with a wooden bench (also suitable for two) under two rain showerheads. So if you're bringing more than two champagne glasses, we suggest you refine your guest list.

411:: 411: Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Presidential Suite, 80 Columbus Circle, 212-805-8800; For picture, click here.

The Deep End

Atrium Loft Suite in Midtown

This minimalist suite is all about substance—a bar, heated floors, two 62-inch widescreen TVs, X-Box, PlayStation and a 4-foot deep jacuzzi of course. The tub seats up to five people on a single side, and it even has a deep end for full-body dunks, although we'd advise against the cannonball.

411:: 411: Shoreham Hotel, Atrium Loft Suite, 33 W. 55th St (between 5th and 6th),800-553-3347; For picture, click here.

The Scandinavian

Wooden Hot Tub on Bowery Terrace

Channel your inner Scandinavian: No flashy features, just hot, steamy water in a wooden hot tub on the terrace. You'll have flattering lights and a romantic view of the LES at your disposal, which should be all you'll need.

411:: 411:The Bowery Hotel, Suite 702, 335 Bowery (at 3rd St), 212-505-9100; For picture, click here.

The Commune

Russian and Turkish Baths in the East Village

The NYC institution is the black sheep of this bunch, but we can't ignore the communal bathing scene. You'll have your pick of five different saunas and steam rooms and an ice-cold pool if you want to feel even more authentically Russian. (We'll stick with the vodka, thank you.)