Had a great experience at the spa. It was my first time at Aura and first "post" pandemic spa experience. I got a 45 min facial with Anna. She did an awesome job and my face was so glowy after. The only comment moreso related to the spa that will make is that this is the only spa where I haven't been greeted and offered water or tea. Regardless the facial was awesome and I'll definitely go back! read more

I had a wonderful experience! I wanted to book a last min spa appointment and they were able to fit me in on a Friday evening with very little notice. The spa is located in the back of Vida Fitness which is good to know. The place was clean and the music was serene and relaxing as soon as I entered. I wanted to give this place 5 stars so bad but the blonde woman working there took quite a while to greet me and was having a seemingly unimportant conversation with a coworker while I just sat there in the lobby (I was literally the only patron). Eventually, my masseuse greeted me and directed me to my room. The room was a great size and clean. The massage bed was one of the ones they're able to warm up which was a really nice added touch. I so wish I could remember my masseuse's name because he was AWESOME (tall guy, either very low cut hair or bald) !!! He listened to my concerns about problem areas and applied the perfect amount of pressure. When I asked to extend the massage 15 more min, he was accommodating. Overall, really good experience, and I will definitely return. read more

Awesome experience with Isa Gulsen!!! Will definitely be back when in town! I've gotten many facials and she provided my best one yet!

Have been a Vida member since 2015, regularly attending the Chinatown and City Vista locations. During the summers I attend The Yards and U street as a member of the Penthouse club. Saying this to say, I am very familiar with the brand and it's products & services which I stand by as quality. This experience was no different. I was gifted a facial and Nyisha from U street didn't disappoint. I have sensitive skin and she tailored her service to ensure that it was right for me personally. She was expedient and professional. Although I don't normally get facials, self-care and investing in my appearance is on my list of things to-do this year and it was worth the trip. Thank you! read more

Went here for a couples massage, I think the massage and that experience was absolutely amazing. It was a very professional environment that provided a lot for both me and my fiancé. The three stars is because logistics were not great. I didn't like sharing the locker room with the gym, for it to be a spa, the location is not ideal. There a lot of things that make it a spa and a lot of things that take away from it. A quiet room would be nice, and more thought process would have also been good. But ultimately, if you just need a great massage, I highly recommend. read more

Do NOT BUY A PACKAGE for a massage at Aura Spa. I was a loyal customer for years when I lived in City Vista. I brought a package of 12 massages in 2019, which were essentially massages paid in advance (they gave you 10 -15 USD lower price and a free massage). I have been unable to use my massages - pandemic, two city living situation. They extended my package in 2020 until May 2021 - but I could not use it due to family health emergency. I currently have 5 massages unused (approx value over 600 USD) -but the business refuses to refund or reinstate (I offered even paying delta in cost). There has been no way of knowing how many massages are left - so shoddy management of spa and terrible experience. read more

I've only gotten a massage once before - 2 years ago at a highly rated place in Adams Morgan - and had a horrible experience. I honestly spent the entire 45 minute session uncomfortable and waiting for it to be over, and figured that I just wasn't a massage person or that I was someone bad at relaxing. Honestly, the only reason I chose the massage and facial package when I joined Vida was because all my co-workers told me I'd be crazy not to and I succumbed to peer pressure. Well, Aura spa completely changed my mind set! As soon as you walk into the spa (all the way to the back when you first enter Vida) you're met with relaxing music, aromatherapy, and offers for water and tea while you fill out your intake form on some cozy couches. You then go upstairs to change into your robe. It is in the general Vida locker room, but you enter through the spa so you're not trekking through the gym. I know a lot of reviewers aren't nuts about that, in which case I would recommend booking for a slower time like Sunday afternoons when it's a lot less crowded. I had a 45 minute massage with Jamilah who was fantastic! She immediately made me feel comfortable and answered my questions, which is a relief for people who are new to massages and may be intimidated by not knowing the process (as I was at my last massage 2 years ago). She even led me through some deep breathing throughout the massage to help me relax (relaxing is hard!) She really listened to me during the intake and made sure to focus on my neck and shoulders where I was feeling a lot of tension. After the massage, all that tension was gone. After that, I had a 45-minute facial with Anna. It was my first facial, and like Jamilah she immediately made me feel comfortable. She explained the entire process so I could relax (and I did!) while she worked her magic. My skin looked so good after seeing her. I wasn't surprised by how relaxed I was after my sessions, but I was surprised by how energized I was! Even though it was a cold, rainy day, I felt more energized than usual and accomplished more in that afternoon than I did all weekend. If you're a Vida member (or even if you're not) I definitely recommend giving Aura Spa a shot! read more

I made a reservation for a couple's massage the day of. I was told aromatherapy was $15 as an add-on and I obliged. We arrived early to take advantage of the sauna and steam room before the massage. A great amenity if you're deciding between studios. The massage itself was below average. The ambience was relaxing and beautiful, but the massage was a step up from having lotion put on. I kept asking for more pressure but did not receive. I asked for focus on my shoulder, which my masseuse did, but my husband asked for focus on his calves and did not get any attention there, with a similar low pressure-lotion rubbing motif. The only aromatherapy aspect was inhaling some essential oils for 3 seconds at the beginning of the massage. The cost ended up being $25 per person for that 3-second sniff that other studios include as a point of departure in the beginning of the massage. I tried to discuss this afterwards with the studio managers and conversation was left unanswered. $50 to smell essential oils that I have at home is a complete rip off. I cannot believe that Aura Spa thinks that is an acceptable value to it's customers. Overall, the studio is beautiful and serene, all the staff was professional and polite, the steam room/sauna is an amazing add on amenity, but the entire massage experience and follow up customer experience support flopped. I would not recommend this salon if you are seeking any physical relief from muscle tension. read more

My therapist Agnis was awesome. Nice warm beds that heat up. It was the best massage ever. Got a couples massage Bridge-Muir was exceptional as well. The facility is nice and clean and the sauna is to die for. Very nice receptionist and therapist overall. read more

After a week and a half of traveling (which included 15-hour long flights, greasy food, and hot weather), I was in dire need of a facial. My usual place was all booked up so I started calling around. I saw that Aura Spa offered a spa package with a facial, pedi scrub, and deep tissue massage. Fortunately, Aura Spa on U Street was able to squeeze me in. My facial was with Stephanie, and she knew how to create a very relaxing atmosphere. This was my first visit to an Aura Spa and Stephanie told me that all of the products they use are paraben=free so there's a plus. However, she didn't explain what she was doing at each step. She had great technique during the face, neck, shoulder, and hand massages but her pressure was so light I didn't even know she was touching me sometimes. My massage and pedi scrub was with Juan. He located all my knots immediately and got right to work. It was going very well until 30 minutes to the end of the session when he started to give me some nutrition and fitness tips. Initially, I appreciated and welcomed the advice... until he droned on and on. It got to a point when he started asking me if I plan on having children, how a proper diet is essential for a well-functioning reproductive system, and why some women can't conceive because their diets are so bad. By then, I was annoyed and offended. The other members of the staff, such as the receptionist and the gym staff at the front, were amazing. Otherwise, this would be a 2-star review. read more

I've waited a few months to give this location a fair review. After the aura spa renaissance location closed (), I purchased a massage package at the U street one taking for granted how easy it would be to find the same amazing caliber of massage therapists I had stumbled across at Renaissance . I was pretty excited since U street is much closer to home for me, and is way roomier than Logan Circle and has a food/smoothie bar unlike Renaissance. So far #winning. Over the past 3-4 months I've had as many services all of which have been disappointing. Either I left feeling absolutely nothing at all, was totally perplexed by seemingly random techniques (e.g., starting face up), and/or was so uncomfortable/painful that the massage added to my stress rather than relieved any. Finally, today I met David. I just came back from an extended multi- country trip and really needed some TLC. I walked out feeling like a new person. David is incredibly professional and everything reflects that- the music, ambience, technique, pressure. While I was pretty relaxed, it's not the kind of massage you're going to fall asleep in- this guy does real body work. Ideal if you have lots of stress l/tension built up and need a release. In short: if you find yourself getting a massage at Aura U street I seriously recommend booking with David. read more

Juan Del Risco is the best massage therapist in DC , hands down. He's thorough, empathetic, knowledgeable and has a way of restoring my health after 60 minutes of massage. He's a miracle worker. read more

This place is terrible. They first of all are connected to a huge gym and share all the facilities so you are walking through the gym in your robes. You share steam and sauna w people working out. Also they misrepresent the spa and its services then when you get there they tell you they can't give you what you booked. Very unhappy w them. Masseuses were good read more

Got a gift card for Christmas, and made an appointment for New Year's Eve. The deep tissue massage given by Juan, was one of the best I've ever had. I'd recommend him to anyone. read more

Not sure why I've waited so long to make (and keep) appointments to experience an Aura Spa massage, but I must say it was soooooo worth the wait and I CAN'T WAIT to go back and see this masseuse of a man, Codie --with the fabulously magic, healing hands, again!! Everything was "just right" -like Goldilocks and the Three Bears. I tasted the porridge, sat in the chair and slept in the bed and it was ALL "just right". Not too hard, not too soft, (not TOO expensive ;) but "just right". It was long enough, it was short enough. It was the right vibe. Relaxing. Easy and beyond thorough. From start to finish, Codie asked AND attended to everything I thought I needed (thoracic cavity work) and found some areas that I didn't even know I needed, until he found them. I floated outta there feeling like a feather -and never wanted it to end. I'll definitely be wanting (needing?) this THIS no less than once a month. read more

After a 24 day work trip, I treated myself to a facial at Aura. After a bunch of flights and many nights in hotels, my skin needed some TLC. And that is where Michelle comes in. My angel on U street massaged and steamed - she always told me what she was doing, but not too much narration, letting me relax, get lost in the calming music and take an hour for myself. The spa uses Collin products. While I wasn't familiar with the line, I spent a good bit of time checking out everything that was used. It all smelled so good - and a day later, all I want to do is touch my face. It's so soft! I had a late appointment, so there was no wait and I didn't interact with too many people. The spa itself is clean and welcoming. Low lights, soft music, infused water - you can't help but feel your blood pressure drop as soon as you cross the threshold. Already looking forward to my next facial with Michelle. read more

I went here for a Brazilian. Everything seemed clean and professional. However, I had a massive breakout starting about a day or two after I got my wax. It literally is six week later and I am still dealing with ingrowns from this experience. I did everything I usually do - applying aloe and tea tree oil, no exfoliating for 2-3 days, then gentle exfoliating every couple days. I don't know if it's the chocolate scented wax they used or if they double dipped or what happened, but I am never returning. read more

I go here for the wax services (a lady would never tell you where!) and Michelle is the best!! I came here after a horrific wax experience somewhere else so was a little frightened and Michelle was great! I swear that the finished product even lasted longer! They use chocolate (chocolate based? definitely not the kind you want to eat [eek, puns!]) and it leaves the area nice and soft. Might even hurt less? I'm no waxing aficionado but I think this place is fabulous! **need cash for tips, they have an ATM but huge fees to use** read more

After doing my research about where to get a good, reasonably priced facial in DC I decided on Aura Spa. I booked the $85 30 minute session, which at the time (they have since changed their website and descriptions since my frustrating phone call) listed the standard motions of a facial- cleanse, tone, extractions, moisturize, etc.. When I met Amparo she said that normally they don't have time to do extractions in a 30 minute session at which point I mentioned it said they did on the website and that was the primary reason for my visit. She said wanted to clear up the acne I was experiencing on my chin so she would focus there and be able to do it. During the session she ONLY worked on my chin.I was ok with this because that is where I was experiencing issues and I was having a shorter session and knew she said she would focus there to maintain the expected time frame, but this is not standard procedure. She then asked (and I quote) "do you need to be anywhere cause I'm going to go a bit over because I want to use the light mask and be sure to leave it on long enough to help. I'm not going to charge you extra or anything it will still be the same price, I just want to be sure to leave it on long enough." I replied, "that's fine as long as its all the same price, thanks for doing that!" After I finished she left the room and I didn't see her again on my way out. I assumed I needed to talk to her, get follow up instructions, tip, check out, etc. but the guy at the front just told me nope, I was good to go. I found this odd but whatever! A few days later I am reviewing my credit card charges and notice I have two charges from Aura, one for the $85 I paid for the facial and then another $25 charge. I call and inquire what this is and they immediately put Amparo on the phone, who I believe is also the spa manager, and she says "the extra charge is for the extended time of the facial." Bemused, I recall our conversation about how she explicitly claimed she would not charge me extra for going over time and her response was "well I can charge you for the light mask instead which was $45?" I was complete baffled. I continue on about how I was not informed I would be charged extra, how I explicitly said I didn't want anything extra, and how she explicitly said she wouldn't. Her only response was "I thought it was clear, I don't know what you want me to do." I said I wanted to be refunded the extra charge and she said she was unable to do that as the service was already rendered. Her only offer was to give me a $25 gift card which she couldn't credit to my account and I had go to pick up in the store. If it hadn't been for this ordeal I would have reviewed her well enough but the deliberate duplicity, shady overcharge, and complete refusal to appropriately rectify the situation ruined the entire experience for me. Will definitely not be returning. read more

If there were more stars, I would add some. The salon is located inside Vida Fitness. As soon as you walk in the front door, you are greeted by friendly, fit staffers. The spa is directly through the front door and around the large sign that is easy to find. Serenity leaks out of the front area. There are candles and budda statues in each area. I attended an open house and met much of the staff. If you can't read all of this, it is because the drool from my chair massage is somehow stuck on my screen. It is a wonderful event space and a great escape from the stress outside of the building. I don't think they allow stress to follow you inside. The massage prices are cheaper than red door. This place is worth a visit. U Street Metro is about 3-4 blocks away. Just exit towards 13th Street and it will be on your left. Just follow the drool...... read more

Michael my massage therapist was fantastic. Very professional and thorough. My issue is with the "spa" itself. I came to relax. I got a great scrub and massage, but left annoyed with the overall experience. First, you have to walk through the gym reception area through a separate for to the pseudo spa reception area. There was no one to greet me nor was there any signage. There were a few comfy chairs which turn out to be the entirety of the spa lounge. It wasn't long before someone came out, but still. I was checked in, given the paperwork, and immediate handed me a cup of tea. That was nice. Once done, I was handed a robe, thin cheap foam slippers, & locker lock, to juggle with my coat, purse, and cup of tea, and walked up the stairs to the gym locker room. Skipping ahead, my service was the Detox body cocktail with added 30 min massage. The service was great, again Michael is great. However, the biggest spa faux pas came between the scrub/mask/cocoon & massage. I'm all comfy, relaxed, & half asleep after the cocoon and have to walk up 2 flights of stairs in precariously thin, slippery slippers covered in mud to shower off in the gym locker room! There goes that relaxing spa vibe. The final insult came after the massage. In my robe & cheap thin slippers, finally relaxed again, I'm not even given a chance to go back up to the locker room to dress before I'm asked to pay. The "spa receptionist" that was nowhere to be found when I arrived, was right there waiting to catch me. BTW he was again nowhere to be found when I came back down, now dressed, to leave Michael's tip. I worked spa reception in an upscale gym spa in NYC and this set-up is far from ideal. I will not be back. read more

Michelle is the best. I've been seeing her for facials for several years and she's just terrific. Friendly, helpful, attentive to your needs, issues and desires. I alternate facials with Michelle with visits to my dermatologist -- a perfect combination. read more

I got a 60 minute massage at aura spa and loved it!! It was probably one of the best massages I have had. The only reason for four stars is the massage therapist did not do my hands or feet, which is not a big deal and I should probably request be done next time. I will definitely use the spa services here again, though! read more

Had a wonderful time here, my esthetician was Nyisha and she is super attentive, talked me through everything she's very knowledgeable and extremely passionate about her craft. If you come in you need to book with Nyisha you won't regret it! read more

I've gotten 2 Brazilian waxes here and generally, the facility is nice and staff are great - so I would have given more stars - however the last tome I went had two issues which makes me not recommend. First, there was a huge fly in the room. while I know that can happen in summer - its quite foul in what's supposed to be a clean sterile environment. I wish they would have made a serious effort to address before giving a treatment or they could have opted for a different room. Second, the wax was not malleable and kept breaking mix wax -- which made the wax was without question the most painful I have had. I feel bad for the estudian because I could tell it wasn't her fault and she handled the situation well - but until they get new products I would steer clear. (This was in late June/early July 2018) read more

When it comes to getting a massage in the DC metro area, I won't see anyone other than Juan del Risco at Aura Spa. I am his longtime and loyal client because he gives strong and effective sports massages, which have been an integral part of my preparation for several marathons. I've been running regularly for over 10 years now without injury or other physical limitations- I credit this feat to my regular massages with Juan, who understands my musculature and the imbalances and issues that frequently affect runners. He has helped me tremendously and I'd highlight recommend him for anyone, but especially for athletes. read more

I was very happy with my visit at the U St location. The place is very well decorated; very calm and serene! I walked in and there was no other customer there. I was greeted right away and taken to my room. The therapist was very nice too. The massage was great. Angela (the therapist) took her time, working her way through all the points that I had told her about. At the end my body felt much better. I was also able to use the sauna and the showers upstairs (they share the space with VIDA Fitness). Very nice and clean. Also, the place was not busy at all. I'll definitely give this place another try. Hopefully soon! read more

I moved to D.C 5 months ago and I was worried that I wasn't going to be able to see the massage therapist I had for 3 years in California, I get horrible knots on my back so for me getting a deep tissue massage is not optional. I thought it was going to take a while for me to find someone that went as deep as my former therapist, long story short I went to Aura and got a deep tissue massage with Juan del Risco and from that day I've been seeing him on a regular basis. He takes all the pain away. If you're looking for the real deal, do yourself a favour and go get a session with him you won't regret it. read more

Omg, I was so in love with this place! My boyfriend brought me here this past weekend for a Valentine's Day surprise and I was wow'ed. No complaints whatsoever. Thoroughly enjoyed the steam shower and sauna before our couples massages. We had Steven and Bri (I think) for our therapists, and they were nothing short of amazing! read more

After one of the most stressful months of my life, I was in desperate need of some serious bodywork. I go to the gym at VIDA and knew that my one of my favorite yoga instructors started giving massages at the U Street Aura Spa. LAYNE was better than I could have ever hoped. Her intuition was incredible and she addressed all of the most tense/painful spots in my back and shoulders without me even asking. Her sequencing and focus made it one of the most relaxing, peaceful massages I have ever had. I know to breathe through the pain of deep tissue massages, but even though she was kneading and really getting my knots out, it was not painful at all. She spent a lot of time on my head and neck and left me just floating out of there. Layne's energy was so kind and nurturing, I felt so taken care of and at ease before, during and after my massage. I recommend Layne to the most discerning massage connoisseurs for a deeply relaxing and effective massage. read more

I bought a Gilt City deal, despite my skeptical outlook on gym spas. I'm so glad I did. I have only had one of my two massages but it was one of the better massages I have ever had. read more

My husband and I had a couples massage here this past weekend and it was amazing. The spa is beautiful and the atmosphere is extremely relaxing. We were greeted upon arrival and promptly taken for our massage. I had Jean and my husband had Bri. Jean was absolutely AMAZING! Everyone should stop what they are doing and book an appointment with her. I workout at least 3x a week and lift very heavy so my muscles are always in some degree of soreness. Jean hit every muscle and applied the right amount of pressure to ease my aching muscles. I usually find that massage therapist are too gentle so the fact that I did not have to request additional pressure and could simply relax and enjoy the entire hour was delightful. At the end of the massage my husband, who is EXTREMELY hard to please said "I needed that!". He raved about Bri and thoroughly enjoyed his massage from her. We were so impressed we decided to make "couples massages" a monthly date night. Thanks Aura! read more

My friend and I took our other best friend to Aura spa for her birthday. One of my friends got a facial, the other got a pedi scrub, and I got a Brazilian wax. All three of these services were performed by Maya, who is amazing. We were all really happy with our services. I don't think anyone really enjoys getting a Brazilian wax, but Maya made it as quick and painless as possible. I would 100% go back to her. Even though the spa is underneath a huge gym, it is still a really relaxing atmosphere. I would recommend this spa because the services seem to be really high quality, the staff were very friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a relaxing haven in the middle of U street! read more

So I'd been looking for a place to hold a Bachelorette Spa Day and had walked by signs for Aura Spa all through DC. Turns out Aura Spa was a great choice - accommodating, relaxing and really enjoyable. I got in touch with Michelle and she helped make the planning simple and easy! Since our group was a little large (there were 8 of us) they closed the spa for our "private event" and we had it all to ourselves! We were able to bring our own drinks and Michelle helped us plan the menu of food. It was a great afternoon with Michelle organizing everything, Maya giving everyone facials, and the two Davids doing everyone's massages. The ambiance of the place is great - very relaxing and enjoyable. There's an entrance area where we all hung out between services on particularly comfortable chairs. The robes were also really nice. I would definitely recommend this place for parties and I plan on going back to prep for the wedding itself. read more

I had a massage with Son! He is wonderful, he knows what he's doing. I had beautiful experiences with him and the massage was amazing!!

Best facial in town! I went to see Amparo. The place was nice and quiet, and the bed was so comfy and relaxing. The facial was the bomb! Not only are the products they use good, but Amparo's expertise and gentle manner makes the perfect combination for an awesome experience. The massage was the best part. After the facial, I did see a big difference in my skin: it felt so silky and hydrated. I was so relaxed. I highly recommend to treat yourself and see her! read more

I went here for a swedish massage because I was very stressed out and the place that I would usually go to (which is cheaper) didn't have same day availability. The massage therapist had an extremely kind and warm personality and the spa itself is very welcoming. However, the massage that was delivered used excessive deep tissue techniques (which was not what I booked) and was both not relaxing and my back feels terrible, tense and generally screwed up the following day. Maybe thats should be expected for some kinds of deep tissue work but thats literally a different service that the salon gives you the option to sign up for which I didn't sign up for. So, I will definitely not come back here. read more

Michelle got me all the way together!!! It's been a while since I've had a waxing and Michelle was patient, sweet and efficient. After trekking all the way to Bethesda for yrs, it's nice to know there is someone GOOD close by. Not only is she good, she's fast. I'm officially ready for my vacay...thanks Michelle!! read more

My neck and fore arms have been aching for some time. I received an amazing 60 mins. deep tissue massage from Sheena and the pain has already subsided. Over the years I've probably had about ten massages, and this was actually the best one I've ever had. Sheena was very friendly and knew exactly which areas to target. I would highly recommend her. She is at U Street location on Tuesdays and at Metropole location on Thursdays. Vida members receive a 15% discount on 60 mins massages on Tuesdays! read more

I had a really awful experience here. So, I came to get a facial for my birthday. I've never gotten a facial before. The esthetician was fine except for the extraction part, which was quite painful. I couldn't even sit thorough it all. After the facial, I inquired about cleansing products to use to maintain good skin care. The esthetician brought out some products for me and rang me up quickly to get me out the door I guess for the next person. It was a very rushed sale and I didn't even get a chance to inquire further about the products I was getting. Once leaving, I immediately called back and asked them to email me a receipt (which I never received) and asked about returning one of the products because I wasn't sure what I had gotten. The guy told me that I couldn't return the product and I would have to speak to the managers. I called the next day to speak to the manager and she said I couldn't return the product for sanitary purposes even though I hadn't opened it. But, what I don't understand is why wasn't this communicated earlier before I bought the product or why was I rushed to make a purchase without giving me further information on what I was getting. I just thought it was such bad customer service. I would not recommend going to this spa. There are other Aura Spas to try in the area apparently (neither of those I have been to). But, this was terrible customer service. It seems like they just try to rush sales without making sure the customer is getting what they want. read more