The Best Spa Retreats in Chicago

The five-star Peninsula hotel is loved by celebs for its attentive service and exquisite spa
The five-star Peninsula hotel is loved by celebs for its attentive service and exquisite spa | Courtesy of The Peninsula / Expedia.com
Amy Blyth

Chicago is home to some award-winning spas, many of them set in opulent hotels across the Windy City. So if you’re in need of some pampering – whether it’s a decadent massage, facial, or time in the steam room or sauna – here’s our pick of the places to stay to enjoy the best therapies in town.

1. The Peninsula

Independent Hotel, Bed and Breakfast

Potted palm-trees line an indoor swimming pool at the Peninsula Chicago, while large windows offer views over the city
Courtesy of The Peninsula Chicago / Expedia
The five-star Peninsula hotel is loved by celebs for its attentive service and exquisite spa. The menu showcases modern and ancient treatments influenced by Ayurvedic and other Asian philosophies. Enjoy a hot stone massage, body scrub or facial, then relax in the pool or sun terrace. Set near Michigan Avenue, the Peninsula’s decor is high elegance, with artwork, city views and dim sum on offer at the Shanghai Terrace.

2. Waldorf Astoria Chicago

Suite Hotel, Luxury

An outdoor terrace at the Waldorf Astoria Spa with classic furniture
Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Chicago / Expedia
The award-winning Waldorf Astoria Spa and Health Club is one of Chicago’s best. Therapists tailor treatments to your physical and mental needs, with highlights including the lava shell massage and Waldorf cleanse body treatment. There’s also a variety of waxing, nail and men’s services available. The Waldorf exudes 1920s glamour, with a crystal chandelier lobby, enormous fireplace suites and a Parisian-style dining room, the Margeaux Brasserie.

3. Eurostars Magnificent Mile

Chain Hotel, Spa Hotel

Eurostars Magnificent Mile
Courtesy of Eurostars Magnificent Mile / Expedia.com

Set in the River North neighborhood, the acclaimed spa at Eurostars fuses traditional techniques with the latest trends and technology. Think saunas with Himalayan salt walls, chromotherapy showers and a full range of treatments for the entire body. Try the Zen essence wrap, deep tissue massage or classic European facial. The five-star boutique hotel also offers avant-garde art and designer furniture, a gym and the 26th-story Apogee Lounge for skyline views and cocktails.

4. The Langham, Chicago

Suite Hotel, Luxury

The Langham, Chicago
Courtesy of The Langham, Chicago / Expedia.com
The Langham is a British-style hotel designed by renowned architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Its award-winning Chuan Spa offers Chinese medicine consults, therapies like acupuncture and cupping, as well as massages and treatments to balance body and mind. Combine a pamper session with a stint in the pool, sauna and steam room. As well as an extensive art collection and Bauhaus design, the hotel has views of the river and Lake Michigan and is just a few minutes from the Loop.

5. JW Marriott Chicago

Hotel

JW Marriott Chicago
Courtesy of JW Marriott Chicago / Expedia.com
Treat yourself to a spa day at the JW Marriott, a hotel known for its decadent style with Corinthian columns, ballrooms and grand staircases. The high-end spa has 14 treatment rooms, a Hammam, pool and hot tub. Choose from treatments that include body wraps, facials and waxing. The couples massage is a favorite, followed by a foot bath and steam room session. Set in the South Loop, this early 1900s hotel also has a bar and restaurant.

6. Hotel Arista

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

Hotel Arista
Courtesy of Hotel Arista

This AAA Four Diamond hotel has contemporary interiors and a Mediterranean-inspired spa that’s been highly praised. Highlights include the serenity stress relief massage and citrus essential vitamin C facial, as well as a range of body scrubs, wraps and salon services. The hotel is set in the western suburb of Naperville but has a shuttle service, as well as a fitness center and Lavazza café.

7. The Godfrey Hotel

Independent Hotel

The Godfrey
Courtesy of The Godfrey / Expedia.com

Visitors come to the Godfrey for its Cubist architecture, with geometric accents and marble floors. The glass, fourth-floor roof terrace offers skyline views and a popular Spa Boutique, with services in two tranquil treatment rooms.The menu includes massages and facials and has couples packages, including a traditional Swedish massage, body melt scalp therapy and rejuvenating body brush and scrub. And, if you prefer, you can be pampered in your own suite.

8. 21c Museum Hotel Chicago – MGallery

Chain Hotel

21c Museum Hotel Chicago - MGallery
Courtesy of 21c Museum Hotel Chicago - MGallery / Expedia.com

Experience a slice of serenity in the midst of Chicago, just steps from Michigan Avenue. The 21c Museum Hotel is filled with work from local Chicago artists and was once home to the historic Croydon, a former meeting place for vaudeville stars. Its spa service includes in-room treatments and great-value day packages, with a menu full of traditional favorites like aromatherapy massages, beauty masks and cleansing wraps.

For more relaxing options, read our guide to the best spa and wellness hotels in Chicago and book now on Culture Trip.

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