A Relaxing Trip to the Hospital

Sometimes great escapes can be found in the most unlikely of places.

If the weather were warmer, a great escape would be coffee and a snack in the park with a friend, followed by a long walk and some shopping.

But, it’s winter, so we have the atrium at St. Vincent Hospital.

Surprising? Maybe. But for a nominal parking fee, the six-story, sun-drenched atrium area offers trees, waterfalls, a measured walking route complete with stairs to boost your fitness, a salon and a gift shop for browsing — all you need for a great escape right in the middle of the city.

If you want to incorporate exercise into your routine in a bigger way, Worcester Fitness has a location at St. V’s, at Level 6 South, with a full gym and locker room. Day passes are available, but note they are closed on Sundays.

After you log a mile or two on the walking paths (or on the treadmill), the food court boasts a full salad bar, sandwich offerings, bottled water and juices, pizza, frozen yogurt, burgers and a bakery. If you just want coffee, Dunkin Donuts is there, as well as Café Latte Da, and if you need more money for a muffin, there is a Bank of America ATM for your convenience.

Lori’s Atrium Gift Shop, in the lobby, is open every day. The shop offers shopping for the common good as proceeds benefit the hospital. It’s a great place to pick up cards, magazines, toys, flowers, purses, scarves and gift items.

Hospitals are usually for medical treatment, it’s true. But the sunny atrium at St. V’s is sure to be just what the doctor ordered for the woes of winter.

The Atrium, St. Vincent Hospital, 123 Summer St., Worcester.