King Spa & Sauna, located in Niles, Illinois, offers a unique and expansive Korean spa experience. This 34,000-square-foot facility, nestled between a Home Depot and the Korean grocery store Super H Mart, is a world away from typical American spas. Open 24/7, King Spa boasts the title of the “largest Asian sauna in America,” providing a blend of relaxation, cultural immersion, and unique healing therapies.
The entrance fee of $30 grants access to a variety of amenities, including nine uniquely themed sauna rooms, hot tubs, and a communal lounge area. For just $5 more, guests can enjoy an overnight stay. Upon entering the locker rooms, guests are required to remove all clothing and don a standard-issue cotton two-piece outfit. This practice, while potentially surprising to first-time visitors, contributes to the communal and egalitarian atmosphere of the spa.
The communal lounge is a striking blend of seemingly disparate design elements. Oversized faux Louis XIV furniture, maroon pleather cushions, and a collection of eclectic decorations, from cave paintings to a King Tut bust, create a visually stimulating environment. Large amethyst geodes, priced up to $17,000, are available for purchase, adding to the unique ambiance.
Each of the nine saunas offers a different therapeutic experience. The Amethyst Room is said to protect against psychic attacks and promote tranquility, while the Ocher Room features walls made of baked yellow soil. The Base Rock Bath Room, featuring rare Japanese siraka stone, claims to possess remarkable healing properties. These saunas, each shaped like a giant igloo, provide a quiet space for relaxation and sweating.
The spa also offers body scrubs, performed by attendants in a dedicated area. This invigorating treatment involves a full-body exfoliation using rough nylon gloves, leaving skin feeling refreshed and smooth. While the men’s body scrub service may not always be available, the women’s side consistently provides this popular treatment. The women’s locker room also features several hot tubs, a cold tub, and a steam sauna.
Beyond the saunas and body scrubs, King Spa Chicago offers a variety of amenities for overnight guests. Families often utilize the spa as an affordable staycation option. The “bedroom,” a large room filled with leather recliners, provides a place to sleep. While not luxurious, the overnight accommodations offer a unique and budget-friendly way to extend the King Spa experience.
The on-site café provides nourishing meals, such as spicy pork belly, to fuel guests throughout their visit. A range of hot tubs, from scorching hot to near-freezing, offer a variety of hydrotherapy experiences. King Spa Chicago provides a truly immersive and revitalizing experience, a far cry from a typical spa day. It’s a cultural adventure, a place to relax, and a unique destination in the Chicago suburbs.