The Surrey
20 E. 76th St., 212-288-3700, Upper East Side
Located steps from Central Park, the boutique-style Surrey's fitness offerings make the most of its location. Yes, you can expect a conventional gym with traditional cardio equipment and free weights, plus personalized yoga or Pilates sessions with top local trainers (including rooftop lessons at daybreak). But the real action takes place outside in Central Park. The hotel's personal trainers take guests on one-on-one runs through the park or make them sweat during individualized cross-training programs. There's even organized rock climbing at the park for travelers who seek an alpine-style workout in the big city.