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 massive Korean grocery store Super H Mart, is a must-visit for anyone seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. King Spa proudly proclaims itself as the “largest Asian sauna in America,” and with its unique blend of traditional Korean spa treatments and amenities, it’s easy to see why. For a reasonable $30 day pass (or $35 for an overnight stay), guests can access a world of wellness and cultural immersion.
Upon entering the spa’s grand marble lobby, visitors are greeted by friendly staff who explain the procedures and options. The first step is to embrace the spa’s communal nature by changing into the provided uniform: loose-fitting gray cotton two-piece sets for men and faded pink for women.
The central lounge area is a fascinating blend of cultural influences, decorated with an eclectic mix of oversized faux Louis XIV furniture, maroon pleather cushions, and a seemingly random assortment of decorative items. From cave paintings and plastic trees to a mounted deer head, a King Tut bust, a stuffed turtle, and massive amethyst geodes, the decor is an experience in itself.
Nine uniquely designed sauna rooms, each shaped like an igloo and boasting specific healing properties, surround the lounge. These saunas offer a variety of therapeutic experiences, from the Amethyst Room, said to protect against psychic attacks, to the Ocher Room, with its yellow soil baked for 100 hours at extreme temperatures. The unique Base Rock Bath Room features rare Japanese siraka stone, purported to have powerful healing properties.
Stepping into the Charcoal Room, guests are enveloped in a purplish gloom. Silence is often the rule in these sauna rooms, allowing for deep relaxation and introspection. The experience can be a profound contrast to the bustling city outside.
A highlight for many visitors is the body scrub, a traditional Korean spa treatment that leaves skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. Performed by skilled practitioners, the body scrub involves a thorough exfoliation using rough nylon gloves, removing dead skin cells and revealing glowing new skin beneath. The women’s locker room also features various hot tubs, a cold tub, and a steam sauna for a complete spa experience.
Beyond the saunas and treatments, King Spa offers a unique overnight experience. Families and individuals alike can utilize the spa as an affordable staycation option. The “bedroom” area, furnished with leather recliners, provides a communal sleeping space.
A visit to King Spa & Sauna is an immersive journey into Korean spa culture, offering a range of treatments and experiences that promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being. It’s a unique destination in the Chicago area that provides a welcome escape from the everyday.