Best for Celebrity Watching

Treatment we had: Deep-tissue massage, $129 for 50 minutes.

What we loved: Spa patrons who book a 50-minute treatment can use the huge and luxurious fitness center—where visiting celebs like George Clooney and Britney Spears have been spotted breaking a sweat. The workout area has rows and rows of sparkling cardio and weight machines as well as a basketball court, pool, and squash courts. The locker room’s sauna and steam room are a great spot to linger after a treatment.

What you should know: Much of my 50-minute treatment was devoted to the knots along my neck and shoulders. Because deep-tissue massages can be painful, my therapist, Kelley McCaleb, explained what she was doing and checked in periodically to make sure the pressure wasn’t uncomfortable. She finished by rubbing my feet and wrapping them in warm towels. I felt rejuvenated—and extremely relaxed.

Bottom line: Resort-like amenities help justify the steep prices at this posh spa.

The Spa at the Sports Club/LA, 1170 22nd St., NW; 202-974-6601; thesportsclubla.com.

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