BY AMY ZIMMER

Lush life: Atrium at the Frick Collection.

If you can steal out of work early enough, escape to Sarabeth's for afternoon tea — complete with finger sandwiches. This charming spot feels just like the parlor room of a B&B in Amagansett.
• Sarabeth's, 1295 Madison Ave., between 92nd and 93rd Sts, 212-410-7335.

Next, discover one of Central Park's hidden treasures: the Conservatory Gardens. The entrance opens up to a grand Italian garden reminiscent of a Medici estate, and is flanked by a stunning floral display and a wild English-style garden (also known as "the Secret Garden" for the statues of Mary and Dicken-characters from the popular children's tale).
• Central Park, entrance at 105th St. and Fifth Ave.


For an oasis of pure luxury, check out the Frick Collection. Henry Clay Frick's grandiose Gilded Age mansion is home to a first-rate collection of Old Masters: Titian, El Greco, Goya, Degas. On Friday evenings, sip a glass of wine around the fountain in the Garden Court.
• Frick Museum, 1 E. 70th St.; frick.org. Friday night cash wine bar after 6:30pm.

Estimated cost: $55