Came in for a couples massage today and had a wonderful experience. It was both our first ever massage, and both Molly and Norris did a great job. They asked us questions pertaining to our intake we filled out online so they could best address our body areas of concern. So relaxing and enjoyable, worth every penny. read more

Hands down the best massage I've ever had. Sam H listen to my expectations and over delivered. I left feeling a lot lighter and more relaxed than ever before. Would highly recommend if your body is holding a lot of tension and stress read more

I strained my back and was in constant pain anytime I tried to stand up or rotate my torso in any way. When I called at 10:00, Sally moved heaven and earth to get me an appointment at 1:45. When I came in the atmosphere was delightful and Thomas worked absolute miracles. He was warm, professional, communicative, and whatever he did made my back stop hurting. After the massage, he even demonstrated some stretches to keep it from happening again. The total cost for a 60-minute massage was $150 after tip, and it was the best money I think I have ever spent. I cannot recommend this place highly enough. read more

I have been going to Sanctuary on 2nd (have also gone to their new location Sanctuary on 9th). Each time I go the stress melts away. Today during my session I experienced very painful foot cramps. My massage therapist skillfully massaged both feet, applied hot compresses and made sure I hydrated. Cannot say enough how caring and compassionate she was, as is all the staff. Definitely an oasis !! read more

Terrific experience at Sanctuary on 2nd, which is a welcoming, friendly, and soothing environment in an old Philadelphia row home. Came for a couple's massage and were welcomed by our massage therapists, Meghan and Danielle, who chatted with us each individually to assess problem area(s) and set a roadmap for how they would be addressed in this session and gave us time to settle. Periodically throughout the massage, they checked in to make sure we were comfortable (e.g., temperature, lighting, and sound) and that the pressure was enough/not too much. As others have noted, we appreciated that the appointment clock starts when the massage begins, which allows you to chat before/after without feeling rushed. Already have my next appointment booked! read more

I had a couples massage with my partner today. It was my first time getting a massage, and Nasrene was my massage therapist. Prior to the massage beginning, Nasrene and I talked about what brought me in and any areas of tension I was having. I was informed that aromatherapy was complimentary during the massage, so I was able to pick out some to go in the oil. I wasn't aware of this, so I told Nasrene what smells I did and didn't like. What I got was amazing. It smelled citrusy and was lovely. During the massage, Nasrene were very attentive, and checked in on me throughout to make sure I was doing well. I would definitely go back. I really appreciated how queer and trans friendly this place was. I would definitely recommend Nasrene to anyone looking for a massage. read more

See all

I can't even begin to describe how wonderful my experience was today at Sanctuary on 2nd! From the moment I walked in I was welcomed into a friendly, soothing environment, and I could tell COVID protocols were strictly adhered to right away, which was a great relief. Meghan was my massage therapist, and they did everything possible to ensure I was comfortable and had a personalized, relaxing massage experience. They asked plenty of questions at the beginning to get to know me, learn about my body, and understand what my goals were for the massage. They were extremely accommodating to my requests throughout our 90 minutes together, including changes to temperature, lighting and sound. They were kind, warm, and a pleasure to talk to. And the massage itself couldn't have been better! Meghan was great about keeping the pressure how I liked it and they checked in periodically to ensure I was doing alright. Overall, I felt safe and peaceful there, which is not always guaranteed as a fat, queer woman coming in for a massage. As soon as my massage was over, I booked another one for next month. Massages at Sanctuary on 2nd will be a monthly self-care practice for me from now on. Thanks to Meghan for such a stellar first appointment and to Sanctuary on 2nd for offering an affordable, affirming, high quality massage to the community - truly couldn't be happier and couldn't recommend it strongly enough! read more

Like this place needs another 5 star review..... I had a luxurious experience for a 2 hour massage with Meghan. It was both therapeutic for my muscles and relaxing for my mind. You are so detailed and listened to any requests I had. I am so appreciative of her skills. I will definitely be back. All COVID protocols were followed, I felt safe, and had a relaxing time while in a slightly awkward world of masks and hand sanitizer. The studio space is welcoming, the music light, and the oils like butter and silk. read more

The best massage I've had for several reasons. First, the environment was super calm and relaxing. Christy and Doireann took their time explaining the process and asking questions regarding our level of comfort. Second, this was truly an hour long massage and I mean an hour from the minute they started working on us, not an hour from the time we arrived. Lastly, they were amazing!! The full body massage was a mix of deep tissue, Swedish and trigger point therapy and it was not painful at all. They were able to gauge the level of stress/pain and worked in a manner that would relieve that pain, not exacerbate it like other places I've been too. I wish they were located in New York because the experience is unmatched. We'll be planning trips to philly often just to visit sanctuary on 2nd again! read more

See all

I mean this place is great for the experience. It's a little quirky on the inside, but when you come to get a massage, you are extremely well taken care of. It feels like you are the only customer in the entire house. It's dimly lit, with cosy but eclectic furniture. They do a great job of making you feel comfortable. I've been here by myself and as part of a couple massage and have had great experiences. Each massage has aromatherapy included, and they are great at listening to your wants and coming up with a personalized concoction for you. I will say though, that they tend to have a softer touch, so it might not be the place to go to if you are looking for a firm hand. read more

With the wait to get in for the couples' massage! The location is in what I believe to be an old home so the layout is a bit odd including some steps (ADA beware), but the service is fantastic! My partner and I went and I had a standard 'relaxation' massage whereas he wanted the full monty and to walk out of there having really had his muscles worked on- both of which were accomplished! I gather it's a bit challenging to get two therapists at the same time to do the couples' massage but again totally worth it and reasonably priced! read more

Just obsessed with this place. From the minute you walk into this lovely old home, you feel at ease. The staff are incredibly friendly and eager to make your massage the best one you've ever had. They custom-mix your aroma therapy oils and have soothing music the whole time. It's just the best, most wonderful sanctuary in all of Philly! read more

True professionals who are dedicated to giving an excellent customer experience. Best massage of my life. Thanks you!

Wow. Amazing, wow. Sanctuary on 2nd was just what I needed after a terribly stressful week!! I was lucky to be able to book an appt the day before via their online system when I realized I needed a moment for me. 1. I'm really into what is going on at sanctuary on 2nd. The staff and the environment give off more of a spiritual wellness vibe that is cozy and homey. I much prefer this to your standard chic spa where everything is white and made of glass. I felt really relaxed walking in and felt that they wanted to take care of me in a genuine way! 2. My massage therapist, Kristie, was a gem. She was very careful to ask me exactly what I was looking for before starting the treatment. Importantly, I could tell she followed that during the massage - it wasn't just a standard question she asked to make me feel good. She definitely spent more time on my back, neck, and scalp like I had hoped for. She maintained the perfect balance of checking in during the treatment to make sure I was comfortable without interrupting my peace! I also opted to add the face massage and mask treatments on to the 75 min massage. This was definitely fun and worth it. In the end with tip, I made it out at $150. This is surprisingly reasonable for an hour and half of personalized treatment. I felt like a new person leaving!! I definitely hope to incorporate this into a seasonal self-care routine and know I'll be back in December read more

Now I'm Not easily impressed, but this place right here is AN EXPERIENCE! I brought my wife here as an early bday present last weekend. From start to finish, we both enjoyed our experience. I wasn't sure what to expect beings tho most massage places have a stuck up ambiance. These ladies made us feel at home. They were both very attentive to our needs. Super down to earth. I had been suffering from back pains and unable to sleep for weeks. I left this place feeling like a new woman and slept like a baby. My wife did as well. You will get your money's worth! Please book here read more

Came here with hubby for a couples massage. This wasn't my first time getting a massage, we actually go every other month in New York but it felt like it was our first time getting a massage. A REAL massage. We got Meghan and Cait and both were extremely professional and talented. They walked us through the whole process and made sure we were good at all times with the pressure and everything else. We walked out floating! We will definitely be back again on our next visit to Philly. Sanctuary on 2nd surely set the bar too high for other massage spots! read more

Sanctuary on 2nd - And calming/unique decor as well. - Massage Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

See all

I've been to Sanctuary on 2nd twice-each time for a birthday "treat myself" massage. Since I signed up for emails I received $5 off a massage during my birthday month which was a special treat. I've had both massages with Kelly and I highly recommend booking with her. Kelly can conjure knots and stays with them until they are relieved-seriously, she doesn't let them escape her talented hands. I appreciate the time she spends checking in with me about my needs, pains, and priorities before the massage. She asks if I'd like any scalp or facial massage work done which is not an extra cost. Kelly also asks my preference for essential oils so I'm surrounded by comforting scents (of my choosing) during the massage. Last time I selected a mixture of sandalwood and sage which was soothing and grounding. A regular massage runs about $80 for an hour which seems to be on the higher end, but it is so worth it especially considering all the additions (essential oils, scalp work) that would most definitely be an extra cost elsewhere. I walk away from Sanctuary on 2nd in a massage fog which is delightful. I'm so thankful I found Sanctuary on 2nd! read more

My partner and I had a fantastic couples massage here. Book your massage early in the day so the feeling of relaxation stays with you all day! read more

From the first phone call,which was an attempt to get info to setting up an appointment with the doctor who could not have been nicer,empathetic and professional to the follow-up. I whole heartedly recommend this business. I even received my card 8days later.PThank you. read more

I have been searching for a proper massage since my regular therapist left the city during Covid. I finally had an epiphany today when I saw Grace here. They were so intuitive with body work, fun to talk to and really made me feel cared for. She made me a wonderful essential oil mix that was tailored to what scents I like/relax me and really helped ease so many pains I've been carrying in my muscles. I highly recommend them to anyone and give bonus points for being a queer friendly and wonderful establishment. Thank you, Grace! read more

Sanctuary on 2nd, WOW. I had a 90 minute massage with Meghan yesterday and was blown away. After months and months of covid distancing, to have someone so wonderful tend to my aching body and dote on me with such care, it was incredibly special. Like most reviewers have said, Meghan chatted with me before the massage started, mapping out a plan together based on specific troubled areas and really followed through during the massage. She checked on me the perfect amount, never feeling needy, plus she was a friggin' delight to talk to. 90 minutes started when the massage started, not the consultation. Super classy. Masks were worn the whole time (which wasn't an issue at all), the room was aired out for hours before my arrival and air purifiers were running as well. I felt totally safe and was able to relax instantly. There was gorgeous music, essential oils, the cozy feeling of being in a house, candles and Halloween decorations. What more could I ask for? Will definitely be back. read more

I had a great massage today. My massage was with Kristie. She was very nice and answered all my questions. She did really well mixing general massaging with targeted work on knots. I don't know if I'd add the CBD oil again as I don't think it really added to it but it definitely didn't take anything away! In terms of covid they were very open with their policies, had multiple air purifierers, and required masks to be worn at all time. I'd definitely go here again and would recommend it to a friend!! read more

This was one of my first massages in about five years, and it was so relaxing!! The woman I saw, Natalie, was very calming and welcoming. She asked me exactly what I wanted and delivered, and then some. It was such a positive experience!!! read more

Incredible experience. Meghan was so intentional and kind. They really care about how you're feeling and personalizing the massage to your needs. Best massage I've ever had. Can't wait to return read more

I have been meaning to check out Sanctuary on 2nd for a while, and it didn't disappoint. The ambiance of this place is perfect. I had a wonderful experience with Meghan. She really took the time to get to know my needs and concerns before my massage and just overall made sure I had the best experience. I left feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. I also felt very safe the entire time with their Covid protocols. I will definitely be back! read more

I absolutely loved my experience here. I got a 75 min massage with Natalie and I would recommend her and this place to anyone. Very calming atmosphere and I left feeling completely refreshed. read more

So I had my first ever real-time massage yesterday and Sanctuary on Second and yeah, it was awesome. Cait was my therapist and she made me feel right at home and explained the entire process to me. She didn't even give me grief about my ashy elbows! The massage lasted an hour and during the process, I really felt like she listened to my issues and concerns and concentrated on my problem areas. I can't wait for my next appointment! Now, I feel there is one thing that I do need to address and that is people's complaints about the noise. Listen. This is Philadelphia, and Philadelphia will take any chance it can to screw you. You know that! Stop living in a fantasy world where everything is quiet in this city because it isn't! It never will be, ever! Sure, there will be background noise, but it ins't nearly as bad as some people have made it out to be. Cars passing, people listening to their awful music way too loud, bitches pulling out each others weaves - yeah, I heard it, but you know what? Not my problem. I focused on my massage. So do that, focus on the massage and I promise you it will be stupendous! And just let those bitches tear out each other's weaves because chances are they were busted anyway, ya heard? read more

My better half and I came back here to treat ourselves to a couples' massage after a brutal weekend of moving to a new house. The whole experience was just as good as the previous one. We got to choose our aromatherapy and the therapists did a great job of getting feedback on pressure and whatnot. We had Alison and Cait (I got Cait this time, last time I had Alison) and I can vouch that they're both fantastic. And really friendly! I tell people all the time that this is the place to bring your man. Most men freeze up in typical spa settings- they get intimidated. This place is so approachable and comfortable, any guy could go in, even by themselves, and not feel awkward. Buy a Yelp deal! It's so worth it! You can't use two on a couple's massage, as I found out the hard way, but that just gave us an excuse to come back again soon. read more

Writing this review is tough...be warned that it could use a little massaging, I'm well aware. The words just aren't flowing, and the kinks in my lexicon are prohibitive of a fluid review. My body was feeling a little too Billy Ray Cyrus Achey-Breaky with a few kinks and knots in there for good measure. And so I wanted a massage - no, I needed a massage - STAT. Unfortunately, waking up at 7:00 a.m. and trying to schedule an appointment for later in the day doesn't work well with salon schedules. Thankfully Sanctuary has a lovely online booking system that allowed me to forgo the hassle of actually having to wait, call and wonder whether or not my body would be kneaded later that day. Walking into the Sanctuary, I felt as though I were visiting my cool-good-witch grandmother's house. The entrance, stair well and waiting parlor have a sort of rococo charm. The massage room itself is dimly lit and delicately scented by old-world incense (or candles?). Opting for an Aching Muscles Wrap and Massage, Alison the procedure: I would be slathered with oil and wrapped like a mummy. I would sweat, but that's the purpose. During the first part of my incubation, Alison massaged my shoulders and head, instructing me to become a rag doll. Once I let go, the massage magic began. She then revitalized my lower legs, making note of the tension in my Achilles tendon - something I hadn't mentioned in our prior-to-performance discussion. And for a few minutes, I was left alone to zen and allow the oils to penetrate into my skin, swapping their good essences for the dreary sweat within. Though out the massage, Alison intuitively pressed hard on those areas that needed persistence. She untangled all of the twisted, sinuous fibers, straightening out both my mental and physical state. Her clairvoyance about which massage techniques to use where is astounding. A true prodigy in the massage world, I'll be back for Alison's healing hands. read more

Amazing for a couples massage! Jay and Cait S. were both awesome. Would highly recommend. Both very professional and helpful. The location is also clean and the environment is super relaxing. We will definitely be returning! Thank you both again for an relaxing experience! read more

I had no idea that a massage could be that relaxing and enjoyable. I was brought here as a birthday surprise yesterday and I had never had a massage before. Thanks to Cait and Allison's expertise and friendliness, I am a complete convert to the art of massage. I have been more mellow than ever before in my life, and as I write this review in bed, I feel so loose and happy. THANK YOU. Sanctuary is actually in a house, so it's sort of easy to miss, but inside, it's really down to earth and familiar (I think because it's a house). The second floor massage room is discreet, dark, and soothing, with soft music and warm sheets. The masseuse(s) give you plenty of time to get comfortable before and after the massage and are great at encouraging feedback to make the most of the experience. I definitely needed ten minutes or so to nap afterwards because I just wanted to preserve the perfect calm that fell over me. I also really loved that this place specializes in couples' massages; I had never had a massage before, and having someone I trust there because it helped me get comfortable with a new experience quickly. Being new to massages, all I can say is that Allison is really wonderful at responding to my feedback. I forgot to tell her that my feet are ticklish (hehe), and I got a little hysterical when she went for my right foot. After we cleared that up, she let me know when she started my left foot and I was able to calm down more (though I am still way too sensitive there). She worked out the kinks in my shoulders and back above and beyond what I was expecting, which is really good, because I was really tense. Proof of her massage: generally, I am a fast walker and a busy person, always trying to get from one place to another quickly. After Allison finished with me, I felt as though there was no deadline to meet or even time passing in the world. The prices guarantee that this will be a special occasion destination, but I will definitely be back! My only suggestion to the owner: put "couples massage therapy" on the title of the sign in the window, because my mind did not jump to the correct activity when we walked up and I had to give my boyfriend a bit of a stare (although it's a joke now). read more

Came here during the winter months and loved the rustic backdrop of Queens Village. Was easy to find and not too noisy. Alison literally made my body into putty! I am a girl who really enjoys deep pressure and Alison just intuitively knew my trouble spots. I have been dealing with left-sided neck pain for the last ~2.5 years and within 75 minutes of my time, I not only had a relaxing conversation but my neck pain was near gone! (Results achieved the next day when I woke up without my usual sore neck.) At first, I was taken aback with the amount of conversation I was having because I'm used to silence (I had about 3 massages up to that point), but I was so relaxed and nothing seemed forced in terms of your comfort level or conversation. Be careful on the staircase but otherwise, cute place! Totally wish I could keep Alison on retainer :) She really worked her magic and so far, hands down, best massage I've had! read more

Not your typical spa experience in the best way. Personalized care, responsive to your specific asks for problem areas/soreness and will tailor the message to your needs. More of a feeling of a message at home. would highly recommend read more

What can I say? I went to sleep that night thinking that Alison was still giving me a massage. As I am writing this review, I think how badly I needed that massage and all of the good that it did to my body. Boyfriend and I booked a couples massage on a Saturday. We needed an activity to do together and relax at the same time as life has been hectic. I filled out my form as to what Alison was going to focus on. Since I have been under strenuous exercise and the muscles get tight like that, I wanted her to know that. Bf had another girl who's name I don't remember. We arrived a little late as it's hard to park in the area, particularly a pick up truck. They called to let us know that they'd wait another 10 min past the appointment time. Very nice of them. As we arrived, the girls offered us water and then we went upstairs where the massage beds are. They mentioned the procedure which included to pick an essential oil if we wanted. I picked lavender and lemon. Of course heavy drops for me. Alison kept on pressing on my toughest spots which were the shoulders. Signs of an insane amount of stress equal tight shoulders. She was apologizing all the time as I was tweaking insanely. But I assured her that everything was fine - I needed that kind of pressure. They gave us plenty of time to get our selves together before proceeding to pay.Both of us left Sanctuary on 2nd extremely happy. I couldn't recommend it enough. read more

Had a massage from Alison the other day, and will def. go back again! She is also a wealth of information on holistic healing. I cannot recommend her enough. She has many choices for an aromatherapy massage, and made me feel comfortable and welcome. You will not be disappointed if you give this place a try! read more

Wren was knowledgeable and made me feel comfortable for my first prenatal massage. I love the feedback given at the end of the session.

Loved the space.. and my massage was when the sun was setting so the background light pleasantly decreased to almost darkness! Clean! easy booking! Great deep pressure! Just what my muscles needed.. Alison was very thorough with her knot finding and dissolving! Spunky not stuffy! Ill be back! 90 minutes of amazing read more

Don't be fooled by the appearance! A few friends of mine didn't like the ambiance of this place, but my husband and I loved it! It is in a house that was converted to a massage parlor. The atmosphere is definitely "no frills", but I prefer that to a stuffy atmosphere. We have gone twice for couples massages and will definitely be back! The masseuses are wonderful and really listen to what you want and focus on the problem areas. I prefer a more gentle, Swedish massage and my husband prefers a deep tissue massage. We were both pleased with the depth of massage and professionalism by each masseuse. We had Cait and Stephanie and will definitely request them every time. The couples massage room is on the 2nd floor and has 2 heated beds. We can't wait to go back again soon! read more

I would give this three and a half stars if that were an option. I signed up online (or thought I was signing up) for a massage with Sally, and got Allison instead. Allison gets an A for effort--her massage was vigorous and enthusiastic, if imprecise. As a bodyworker myself, however, I noticed a lot of details which would not allow me to relax. The massage therapist really needed to slow down. She'd jab me suddenly in painful places without any awareness of what she was doing. She worked non-tense areas with exactly the same speed and pressure she used for trigger points, and failed to adjust her approach when coming up on sensitive areas. I have no idea why she thought sticking her fingers into my eyelids was a good idea. I'd recommend her work for someone wanting an all-over sports massage before an event, but not for anyone who is looking for specifically targeted therapy. Notes for the spa in general--just because you use a table warmer doesn't mean you can do without a blanket. People's top sides get cold, too. When you walk in the front door, it's a good idea to have at least one light on inside even when it's a sunny day, or it feels like you're squatting in someone else's house while they're on vacation. And there should be at least one dry hand towel in the bathroom. read more

Understand that this was my first ever real, professional massage experience so I may be a little uninformed on the whole business but seriously, I couldn't have been happier leaving this place. As a wound-up New Yorker who always walks with a mission to get somewhere, my treck back to the car was perhaps the slowest pace I've ever walked in a long time due to the fact that I felt so at peace after my full body massage. The staff truly gets to know you before and during the massage so to best accommodate your pains, aches, muscles, or ticklishness. The setting was very quaint and there was no awkwardness at all being massaged all over because of the techniques they use with the warming blankets. Any private body part you may want to consider hiding, will always be under a blanket so there's no worry of awkward, male surprises. I would totally recommend this place to couples looking for a soothing bonding experience because you're in the same room when you're both being worked on and it's nice to be able to look at each other and feel total relaxation. Finally, you also get to pick your own scented oil to be used on you; and if you don't know what kind of scent you may like, they will work with you to find a scent that will best suit you. read more