I highly recommend the Umstead Spa! Not only are the spa facilities stellar, the service is amazing! I stayed with the hotel and had an oxygen facial by esthetician Elizabeth. The experience was great and very relaxing. My skin was glowing afterwards. There are so many amenities, relaxation lounges, and areas with tea, water, snacks, and anything you could need for relaxing. The spa is well equipped with anything you might need, and the ladies here are great with wonderful service. I would definitely come back to this spa. read more

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This would 100% be a 5 star review if I were only rating the massages I've received here. Legitimately, they have been game changers. I am always so tense, my muscles are almost always in knots, and I've recently started a fairly strenuous workout regime, so I've been coming here for deep tissue massages. They have done wonders for me. I leave feeling like a new person! Also, the spa is gorgeous and the employees are super friendly. There are lots of amenities for you to use while you wait for your time slot, or after you are done. I've genuinely enjoyed my experiences here. So why 4/5? Well, as others have mentioned it is damn near impossible to make a reservation unless you are there in person; calling in a reservation takes forever. Also, you can only get a reservation Monday-Thursday if you are not staying at the hotel. Again, as others mentioned, the online booking tool is ridiculously inefficient. You have to click on each day to find an opening. Who has time for that? That said, they do open up to non-guests the day of IF the hotel guests don't fill all the slots. But how do you even plan ahead for that? If they upgrade the booking tool and perhaps open up a few slots for non - hotel guests on weekends (before the weekend of), this would easily be 5 stars. read more

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I've been here twice now for a gel pedicure and it did not disappoint. The service from the front desk to the pedicure was all amazing!

I just had the best deep tissue massage. Every previous message now ranks as insufficient. Cory not only found and fought all of my knots, he gave me advice for how to manage my MSK issues in the future. The spa itself is lovely, with multiple pools, indoor & outdoor, steam room, sauna, snacks, tea, reading, etc. Can't wait to go back. read more

The reviews are true that it is difficult to book an appointment. I've had a gift card for several years that I first initially tried to use in 2022. I called to schedule a massage in May 2022 and the soonest appointment I could get was early July. By the time I came for my appointment I was 9 weeks pregnant. Upon arrival I was told I couldn't get a massage in the first trimester. Graciously the staff allowed me to stay and take advantage of the spa amenities and I felt very cared for during this visit. Fast forward to spring 2024, not pregnant and ready to use my gift card! I went online in early March to book an appointment and their online booking system is terrible. It's not possible to find the soonest appointment available easily: you have to click on each individual day to be told "no appointments available" or not. I got so fed up with this I called the spa. Took a bit to reserve over the phone as well but I set up an appointment for late April for a 60 minute classic massage. I enjoyed my massage and felt very relaxed afterward. I also took advantage of some of the spa amenities including the indoor whirlpool. Across from the whirlpool is a new feature - salt walls. I did think it was interesting that there was a sign there that said "Please keep voices low so that guests may enjoy their stay" (not word-for-word but along those lines). This is where my issue with the Umstead Spa came in. The spa is designed so that the bathroom area and showers come straight into the spa - there is no door that separates them. I found the sound of hair dryers, flushing toilets, and the bathing suit drying machine to be more disturbing than those around me having a conversation. I think it would really improve the overall experience if there was a door that separated the two spaces. Overall, my experience with The Umstead Spa was three stars. My only other spa visit was to Aji Spa in Phoenix, Arizona and they set the bar so, so high for me with both the booking process and the spa visit. I would go back to Aji in a heartbeat, whereas I will probably only come back to Umstead if I have a gift card again. read more

The Umstead Spa - Day Spas Near Me - Cary, North Carolina

BEWARE, this looks like a European spa hotel on the website. It's actually a hotel with a separate al la carte spa. You may be told that hotel guests get preference for spa treatments, you may have bought a 'package' that says you get a 200 dollar treatment credit.. The truth is that you can pay 1600 dollars a night for the "By Design" spa package -- only to find out when you arrive that all spa treatments are booked! AND since it's an a la carte spa, you cannot even enter the spa without booking a treatment! Complete joke. Please take note above, there's a significant chance that you buy a package and show up and all you have is an overpriced hotel room with no way to access the spa. 1600 dollar/night "package", even saying the room is 'spa level', you do not have access to the spa, don't make that assumption! read more

I enjoyed the most delayed but relaxing birthday massage ever. Apparently Umstead spa had a renovation that made it impossible to find an open slot to book for my birthday 5/19. I settled for the next available day which took place today and the environment was so comforting. I didn't get to experience the steam room, but the lounges were nice, the atmosphere, the whirlpool, the co-ed outdoor whirlpool was so nice. The bath & body products available for use while patronizing the establishment smell so good and feel nice on the skin. I booked the coastal massage 80 min with Chengwei, he provided a relaxing massage experience. I'll have to return at a later date. Unika B. & Co. read more

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I took my mother in law to have afternoon tea here before covid and it was a great experience. But for the price, I can't justify returning. We had a lovely harpist playing when we were there which made it very special. But for the small amount of food that we got, and the quality, it was very lackluster. Afternoon tea is supposed to be small, but I've had it in a few other local areas around here, and they're cheaper with more food, and better quality. read more

The Umstead Spa - Day Spas Near Me - Cary, North Carolina

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I went there with a visiting friend. When we entered our room, linens were on chairs and not put away. When we entered the restaurant for lunch and wanted seats near a window, we were told NO because they said a larger group would soon arrive. (What does that have to do with our request to sit near a window? Every restaurant I've ever eaten at I've ALWAYS requested a window seat, and it's never been a problem.) At dinner, we were given an appetizer we didn't ask for, and I never in a million years would have requested -- caviar, aka fish eggs. The mere thought of it made me sick. Don't waste your money! read more

DO NOT BUY A GIFT CARD HERE! If you live locally, you can not use it on the weekend - only Mon-Thurs - in the day time. You will probably have to book 3 months in advance. They are rude and pretentious. read more

I honestly don't understand the poor reviews. I mean it's not Canyon Ranch. It's not Blue Water Medical Spa. It's a non-medical spa in Raleigh. We were there for a staycation and we really enjoyed all the amenities including massage mani and pedi. The service is amazing and all the spa amenities are so enjoyable. Great for a couples get away. Seriously give it a try read more

I enjoyed my Mother's Day / Birthday Gift at the Umstead. I would definitely say this place was just okay. The spa was easy to find. They have an option for valet or you can find parking yourself. I found parking myself. The parking lot had plenty of available spaces and the walk from the lot to the spa wasn't bad. The staff at the door was amazing they greeted me with a smile and everyone that worked there stopped to speak. You have to get on the elevator and go down 1 to access the spa. I was amazed at huge the place is. I checked in with the front desk clerk and she was really nice I sat waited for like 5 mins and they came and got me. I was so impressed with the lady whom showed me around her name was Mary and she ABSOLUTELY amazing she answered every question that I had and she made sure that I was okay. They have locker room available for changing clothes, swim suit dryer and shower for your personal needs. I felt like the quality of service that you receive there is just average. My pedicure + massage was just average. I've definitely had better. I also feel like they should give you a list of things you might should bring before you come for example a swimsuit (I brought mines because a friend told me) Overall just okay! read more

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Awful service. I spent one hour today trying to reserve some spa services. Called 9 times. Could never reach a human being. It's obvious they don't care, will take business elsewhere read more

I'm so frustrated with the Umstead. I have called 6 times now trying to book a spa appointment as a gift and every time I get no answer, we can't book for the month of May even as late as April 25, and now I can't book anything 2 months out. I give up. If you can somehow get in to this place it's great, but their customer service on the front end is a total disaster. read more

Wow, shocked to see such harsh reviews! I visited the spa today and received a 50 min Swedish massage from Jeff and a 50 min European facial from Rose. First, my massage was definitely the best I've ever had! Jeff asked if I had any areas I'd like him to focus on, and he was SO kind, asking if I wanted him to adjust pressure, making sure I was comfortable. As a Massage Envy member, and recipient of frequent massages, it was easy to tell how much experience he has. Incredible! After my massage, I had a facial by Rose and I was so pleased with how comfortable she made the bed, asked if I wanted her to tell me what she was doing (which I declined), and how thorough she was with my extractions. My skin looks great, and she was wonderful! I opted to enjoy the spa amenities after my services and thoroughly enjoyed the whirlpool tub and sauna (and a very long hot shower :) Sure, their services are pricey. Not surprising for a high end hotel. BUT, their services and staff were top notch, not to mention their exceptionally clean facility. Looking forward to returning! read more

Many of the reviews here hate on this spa. I have mixed feelings. For a full service day spa they are really the only one directly in the Triangle area. There are a few other small day spas, but none really have the amenities that the Umstead Spa has. I will agree that the booking staff seem to be a hot mess. I went in the Summer and was assured I could use the pool during the day on Friday. Of course when I arrived I was told I couldn't use the outdoor pool, it was for hotel guests only. I held my ground, look I get it if the pool was packed but it was Friday at 10am there was literally not one other person in the whole pool area when I arrived. None!! I was fine not staying at the pool all day and being gone before the weekend crowd checked in. I think they should be more flexible with their spa guests (who are spending quite a chunk of money). When the pool is dead there is no reason a spa guest shouldn't be able to enjoy it. The whole morning I was at the pool I probably saw a total of three people. My only other note is to make this a full scale day spa I think they should have a spa cafe or some way to get light bites at the spa. They have multiple restaurants on site so you think this would be an option. Okay on to the good stuff!! I did think the locker room was nice as well as the hot tub. The spa hot tub did get quite crowded, but that is bound to happen if a girls weekend group is there. I also enjoyed the co-ed heated tiny pool outside. I was the only one out there for most of my time there. I found the upstairs relaxation rooms to be relaxing and inviting. I also really enjoyed my 90 minute massage. Overall I will be back since really if you don't want to drive to Charlotte but want to spend a full day at the spa, the Umstead is your best bet! read more

Please notice all the negative reviews! (positive ones are years old) Like many of the other recent negative customer experiences, my daughter & I received LARGE gift cards to spend the day there- We are past customers even... They sold gift cards through out their closed renovations without notifying the purchaser, definitely not a classy and upstanding business thing to do. The Umstead has lost a past and future customer. read more

Great place to get away and ECU Alumni works there which means leadership. You're in great hands and will be taken care of completely. I highly recommend going there for any occasion the Pirate ECU Alumni always do there jobs to perfection so you won't be disappointed! read more

Currently open with restrictions, but definitely worth it! My wife and I both agree that they provide the best massages and service. Absolutely splendid service and amenities. There is a 45 min use of the spa after your service because of COVID that helps limits the number of people. The outdoor hot tub is available. read more

We received a gift card we would like to use at the spa for a couples massage. We had been to this spa several times prior to their remodel and enjoyed the service. Have called since they reopened and can not get an appointment. Priority goes to guests staying at the hotel. They only see "local clients" Monday-Thursday. Called today and was told to call on July 23 for a "chance" at getting an appointment October 23! Ridiculous! I was told "don't worry, you can use the gift card anywhere on the umstead property, you can use it to stay at the hotel". But I don't want to stay at the hotel since I live 6 miles away! Horrible! read more

STAR RATING FOR SPA ONLY The Hotel PROS * The 'hotel' experience here was EXCELLENT. Service was consistently gracious and impeccable. * Atmosphere very elegant--many nice-touches (fresh flowers and interesting, artful natural arrangements at every turn, comfy beds, excellent food, special, personalized touches.) CONS * Being the dead of winter, I was hoping for a warmer, cozier ambiance. I was a bit chilly in the halls, walking to the spa. I came from New England, where most of the high-end spas have a cozy, winter-escape vibe--fireplaces, warmth--didn't get that feeling here. * I had associated the name "Umstead" with a sprawling, natural, even maybe a little off-the-grid setting, and that was not the case. The place basically sits on the campus of a huge corporation. Being winter, trees are bare so you can can see the highway. I definitely didn't feel removed from an office-y, artificially landscaped, corporate environment, as I hoped. (It kind of seemed like the place was doubling as a public destination and also built for meetings/conferences/overnight stays of visiting big-wigs, of the company who's grounds it sat on) The Massage * The massage definitely was not the duration of 50 mins, as advertised. It always feels like cutting corners when a place offers "50 mins" instead of a full hour. It sends a subtle message that they are prioritizing business logistics before the client experience. * Despite having already selected the type of massage you'd like, there's a 5 min 'consultation' in the room before you begin. So now it's a 45 min massage. * I felt the masseuse was rushing as she moved along my body. Transitions from one area to the next were abrupt and jerky. It was like she was just trying to fit everything in or get it over with... It was making me very aware of time passing. * It was not 45 minutes. It was more like 35. Which is insulting, given how pricy it was. read more

Not anything like it once was. I have been to the Umstead Spa a few times before Covid and the re-model. Each of those times were fabulous. I had all day access (facial and message). I could go to the outside pool (the big one), go upstairs and dine for lunch then come back down for the next treatment, then go back to the pool and later come back in using the Spa facilities to shower etc before leaving for home. It was so relaxing and delightful....not anymore. Now "visitors" to the Spa are time restricted (my treatment was at 10:15 and I was told I needed to vacate the facility by 12:00 pm (I was allowed to enter at 9:30). I could not leave the spa at all at any point if I did I would not be able to return. So having the option to split my treatments with either lunch by the pool or upstairs in the bar area was over.....can't return. I wanted to take my time between getting in the steam and sauna and cold shower before the facial....no time to do that either as I was told to be in the waiting area 10 minutes (10:05) before my scheduled. My spa technician was running behind so that did not happen until around 10:25. When I got back to the locker area it was 11:00, I had no time to do anything other than shower dry my hair and leave. I felt like I was in Spa prison. I felt like I was in school, rushing between bells to get to my next class so I would not be tardy. It was just awful. What was suppose to be a relaxing wonderful experience turned out to be an anxiety filled 2 1/2 hours. I hated it. It was beyond disappointing. I let my daughter know and we agreed going forward we will head to the Grove Park in Asheville for the ultimate spa experience...and locally if I want a facial I'll go the Lifetime. read more

I have had a 200 dollar gift card given to me for over 3 years ago by my daughter as which has been impossible to even schedule an appointment finally decided since I was in the Raleigh area. That I could use my gift card for my daughter's birthday. They require you to wear a mask in which in but not during your pedicure. I had an appointment for my daughter to use part of it and mine was I. The evening. While my daughter was waiting for her appointment. Which no one else was around but us I was asked to leave because for health reason could not. Makes no sense the thinking behind asking me to leave. I have not been able to enjoy the gift given by my daughter who is a doctor because of their all their rules behind the spa. Don't buy a spa gift card for anyone their it been a bad hurtful joke to me. Heart broken mother. Thank you Jessica for your poor delivery read more

I want to live here! I checked in on a busy Saturday afternoon. Covid protocol in place and it was was very clean and socially distanced. We were not able to use the many & fantastic amenities afterwards for more than 45 minutes after a service but it was a lovely, relaxing spa. I had a fantastic 50 minute Swedish massage and Yvette was perfect. She adjusted everything to my liking. From light in the room, music, aromatherapy and massage table warmth. I couldn't have asked for a more wonderful spa experience. I used the zen garden, the lounge and took a wonderfully long hot shower with the amazing soap. I wanted to shower for an hour (hey, that rhymes) the soap was so yummy. They also gave me a refreshing cucumber water to go AND they gave me a scrumptious body lotion to use & take home. This is how a spa is supposed to be. read more

Beautiful Spa! My technician focused on my problem areas and really listened to my concerns. Services started on time and I felt fully relaxed before I even started! One of the best Spas in the Carolinas. My go to in the hotel also when I want a staycation. read more

I waiting for over an hour on the phone and finally had my husband call to see if he got through before me. His call was answered in less than 30 minutes and when I mentioned this to the lady she was rude. After all that effort, there was nothing available on the Monday I was trying to book a month from now. They should at least mention on the website how far out things are booked or allow open scheduling. A complete waste of my time. read more

Had an amazing spa experience this weekend with a few of my close sorority sisters. We stayed in the hotel on the spa level and that really makes the difference. Nothing special about the actual spa menu--pretty standard. But the spa amenities are wonderful. Eucalyptus infused steam and sauna rooms. Salt pool is serene. Lounge areas are divine and naps in the meditation room are bliss! I can see why this is a 5 diamond star AAA spa! You won't be disappointed! read more

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Amazing spa services! I have had massages and pedicures at the umstead. The service is exceptional and the technicians are clearly well trained. The amenities are an amazing complement to the service as well - sauna, whirlpool, refreshments, and lounging area.... It is a must try treat! Just be prepared to spend a good bit of money! read more

Completely over priced for super average service. Save your money and your time. I paid $200 for the most average 35 minute massage I have ever had in my life that should have only cost $50. I arrived 30 minutes early, but the masseuse arrived 7 minutes past my start time. She dropped me off in the room and waited 5 minutes to come back. And she ended the massage early, walking around, cleaning up while I was still on the table. The result was that I paid $170 for. A 35 minute massage. And they forced me to pay a $34 tip. Skip this overpriced place and go to hand and stone or massage envy instead. read more

They are STILL operating under COVID protocols and not letting customers use the full facilities. I have a gift card that's been languishing for years due to this policy. We've all been vaxed for almost 2 years now, honey, it's time to let go... read more

I have been to the Umstead several times in the past and had an amazing time but now everything has changed. 1. The worst customer service when booking. Staff is rude, short and they simply don't want you to book an appointment. If you are not staying at the hotel they DO NOT WANT YOU 2. Prices are subject to change, even after you book! The new price will not be disclosed to you until it is time to PAY after your service. Literal robbery. 3. You used to have to book a spa service of $100 in order to have access to the day spa (jacuzzi, steam room, etc) NOW THEY ARE INCREASING TO 150$ That is an increase of 50%! So basically if you are local, they don't want you to come. They treat you like dirt. I am so sad writing this review. I tried to book a bachelorette party for 6 people, we were going to spend over 1,000$ there and they genuinely made us feel unwanted, like we were a huge imposition, and told us we were going to have to pay more and more and more until finally we took our money elsewhere. You are a local business, stop treating local people like dirt. It is clear that they no long want locals to come to the spa. They have always prioritized the hotel guests but now, they just flat out don't want your business if you are not staying there. read more

We stayed at the hotel and the only time they could squeeze us in for a massage was at 7pm. Seeing that they close at 8pm, we asked to come in the next morning for 30 mins to use the steam sauna as this was our anniversary and we flew in from Florida just for this. The spa manager, Mark, was incredibly rude and basically told us where we could go. After spending $750, this was a brutal experience and we won't ever be back. read more

Really bad customer service! The massage therapists were awesome but the attendants were rude (specifically Jan). We were told when we booked the reservation that we would have 45 minutes to enjoy the amenities (which is way too short, especially if you are staying in the hotel). During our time in the current pool we ordered drinks that were brought out by a very nice gentleman. He never mentioned that we would not have enough time to finish them before Jan would rudely come over to tell us that we only had 5 more minutes before we would need to check out of the spa. I asked if I could shower and she said yes but several times while I was trying to get dressed she came over and made comments trying to get me to hurry. After I quickly dressed and combed out my hair (yes I left the spa with wet hair - in December!), I told her I needed to go the coed lounge to find my husband and she said - "No, you need to come with me & you need to leave now! I will go get your husband and bring him to meet you in the lobby" She was so rude to me that I literally left in tears, with wet hair to check in to the Umstead hotel to celebrate my 25th wedding anniversary. We could have gone back to The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, SC, we could have gone back to the Grandover in Greensboro but we chose the Umstead Hotel to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary and we weren't asking for anyone to bend over backwards to make us feel special, but we did expect courtesy, respect and kindness. I sent this review to the Umstead before posting here to give them a chance to respond. Unfortunately when the customer service representative called she just wanted to offer excuses and justify the poor behavior of her spa concierge. She was also rude to me on the phone so I can see that it starts with the management. I will not be back (and they obviously could care less). Save your money and don't waste it at the Umstead Spa!!! read more

I have enjoyed going to Umstead for tea times, birthday dinners and weddings. I had intended to celebrate a milestone birthday/relaxing girls weekend at the Umstead and Spa. Unfortunately, I was so turned off by customer service (should be pristine in my mind for a 5-star hotel) that I canceled my reservations. The lady I spoke to in reservations had no interest in trying to help me, she simply wanted to talk at me and get me off the phone. I've heard lovely things about the spa and in most cases I've had many pleasant times at Umstead. But, I can't endorse paying a small fortune to be "spoiled" only to have my first experience be "spoiled" read more

Very rude and nasty attitude by all employees I came in contact with. This place would make so much money if the Spa owner and employees were replaced by people who have a clue what customer service even means. To keep calling and failing to get a spa appointment is totally unacceptable. To have a rude owner who treats customers like trash is unimaginable. How they have stayed in business is beyond me. read more

I've heard such amazing things about the Umstead Spa, so I was thrilled when my work treated us to a spa day. However, I left less than impressed. Because of Covid you couldn't go in and enjoy the amenities prior to your appointment. By the time we got in and got our robes on, we were taken right to our appointments. I had a 50 min swedish massage, and it was the WORST massage I've ever had. The lady was so rough, breathing heavily the entire time, and when I flipped over she rubbed my legs for 2 mins and said we were done. I seriously felt like I was man-handled and beat up - it was not relaxing AT ALL. I was bruised for days after. All I could do was laugh, but I've paid way less for much better massages elsewhere. I also did the european facial, and while that was 100x more relaxing than the massage, it wasn't anything special either. Once finished we had to get dressed and leave. I honestly wouldn't pay to return here again. There are much cheaper spas with better services all around the state. Save your money! read more

I purchased a gift certificate for my sister this weekend in hopes that she'll take some time for herself. This afternoon I called to schedule a service for her. A gentleman by the name of Lee attended me. He greeted me kindly but shortly after his tone changed. Not sure if he was bothered by the number of questions I was asking regarding the spa. He was short in his responses and at times cut me off. I booked a service and proceeded to clarify a few other details. At the end I felt as if he was doing me a favor. I really hope this is not a reflection of the general service at the Umstead Hotel and Spa. It would be very disappointing. read more

I can't say enough good things about this place. Of all the spas I have ever been to, this takes the #1 slot. $140 for a 50 min swedish massage. Pricey, yes. But included with that price is use of the facilities which are worth every penny. Natural lit showers, cold showers, steam room, sauna, indoor whirlpool, outdoor co-ed whirlpool, women's lounge, co-ed lounge.... all fantastic. The lounges have fluffy blankets to curl up with and sip tea. Have some snacks and read a magazine by the fireplace. This place is the definition of relaxation. The massage was also great. Tables are heated to just the right temp and the masseuse really knew what she was doing. This place is worth the drive from NJ and I'm already trying to plan a trip back. read more

This place is amazing as a treat for women and men alike. While I don't think they have the best massage therapist in the business, they have the best ambiance any spa can offer. I absolutely love the idea of relaxing for an hour or two prior to my scheduled massage. The staff is extremely professional and catering to your needs. Pros: very clean and nice atmosphere; impeccable service; snacks and drinks are tasty; facilities are 5-star. Cons: pricey no matter what service you get; massage staff is similar to what you would find at a massage envy. In short, treat yourself to something nice at Umstead Spa once or twice a year. Any more than that is just excessive. read more

The Umstead Spa is beautiful. Great amenities and layout--reminds me a lot of Four Seasons in San Francisco. Other than a customer service snafu (which was rectified) our experience was fabulous! Snafu: My husband and I booked a couples massage 7pm on a Saturday night (date night). Our treatments were wonderful. Great work by both of our massage therapists. We both felt incredibly rushed to get out of the massage room (which was a bit stressful), so we did and headed to use the spa amenities. There was no water (mmm you kind of need that post massage) and nothing (sauna) was turned on. It turns out that the spa closed at 8pm (right at the time our massage ended) yet no one told us! Not at the time of reservation, not at the time of checkin and not at the time of treatment, In fact, the massage therapists even suggested we go into the steam room post massage. Weird. Suffice it t say we feel like we missed on a big part of the spa experience. We were given two spa passes to use the amenities at a later date. 4 months later and we still haven't used them--hard to justify paying for a baby sitter! Ha! read more