Russian Baths in Chicago

Until recently Chicago had a single Russian bath: Division Street Bathouse. But in 2007 a new Russian banya was built: Chicago Sweat Lodge.

Chicago Sweat Lodge (Old World Sauna)

Address:3500 N Cicero Ave, Chicago, IL 60641
Map: Google
Phone: 773-202-1777
Web: chicagosweatlodge.com
Hours:
Admission: $25
1 hr massage: $65
Facilities: Russian steam room, Turkish staeam roo, cold plunge, Cafe

Chicago Sweat Lodge - a new Russian Bath built in Chicago for the first time in century.

Division Street Russian and Turkish Baths Baths

Address: 1914 West Division Street, Chicago, IL 60622-3146
Map: Google
Phone: 773 384 8150 (note that the phone number has changed)
Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 6am-10pm, and Sun 7am-8pm. This may change to be open till 10pm - call them for details.
Admission: $20
1 hr massage: $60
Facilities: Russian Banya, dry sauna, warm pool, cold plunge, lounge area

Division Street Russian and Turkish Baths were built in 1906. Men and women use separate facilities. The women's side of the Division Street Russian and Turkish Bath has been closed for years, but a few months ago the owners began experimenting with making Tuesday Nights for women only/

The $20 entry gives you a sheet, two towels, and soap. It may be worth bringing footwear.

Here's a review from our reader Alan:

On a recent trip to Chicago, I visited the European Spa at 1914 Division, 10 minutes by train from downtown. The nearest stop is Division - walk West three blocks. Entry is $20 which includes 2 towels, a small sheet, and a bar of soap. Bring a pair of shower shoes if you have them, as none are provided.

There is nothing fancy about the place and while it is a bit run down, I was comfortable with it. It was much better, I feel, and more authentic, than newer places with lots of style and a much higher price.

The men's area includes large lockers, showers and a fairly large Russian-style steam room (hot but not filled with steam) which has large plastic buckets, and cold water spigots, for cooling off. There was what appeared to be a sauna, with a large shower head hanging from the ceiling, but it was not on when I was there in late afternoon.

Also available is Turkish massage ($30/half hour; $60 for an hour). At the end of the massage I was offered a 'rough-scrub' which I did not have time to do, and also don't know if it cost extra. The norm here is to keep yourself wrapped in the sheet unless it's obvious this would be inappropriate.

Overall it was a good place to unwind and have a massage, so long as you wanted no more than the basics, in a basic setting. My plan is to return.

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