Zen or madness? Weird, wacky spa treatments you (might) try

Stepping into a spa, most of us expect soothing music, fluffy robes, and the calming scent of lavender. But what happens when relaxation takes a turn for the bizarre?

Welcome to the wild world of wacky spa treatments, where conventional pampering gives way to the downright peculiar. Think beer baths, Himalayan salt rituals, or being wrapped in chocolate like a human truffle. These quirky rituals are designed to rejuvenate your body and boggle your mind, often leaving you wondering if you’re at a wellness retreat or a daredevil challenge. While some swear by their effectiveness, others come for the novelty (and Instagram-worthy moments). In this world, relaxation knows no limits - or rules.

AIRE Ancient Baths - 800 W. Superior St., Chicago

AIRE Ancient Baths is your ticket to stepping back in time, while being thoroughly spoiled in the present. This lavish retreat blends ancient bathing rituals with modern luxury, creating the ultimate relaxation experience. Take a dip in thermal baths that range from "just right" to "ice-cold wake-up call," or treat yourself (and your special someone) to one of Chicago’s most swoon-worthy couples' experiences.

Feeling extra fancy? Go all in with a Himalayan salt scrub or the downright decadent wine bath, complete with a cranial massage. Yep, a tub filled to the brim with vino—because why just drink it when you can bathe in it?

You might be tempted to grab a straw and start sipping, but hold off. This soak is for your skin, not your happy hour. The antioxidant-rich wine, crafted from Spanish Ribera del Duero red grapes known for their sophisticated flavor profiles, works wonders on your skin, keeping it youthful, elastic, and glowing. This luxurious dunk also comes with a cranial massage featuring a honey hair mask, because why not pamper your scalp too? And just when you think the indulgence is over, a 60-minute full-body massage with grapeseed oil swoops in to seal the deal. Oh, and did we mention the cheese platter waiting for you afterward? You’ll float out of AIRE feeling like Cleopatra–if Cleopatra had an affinity for wine and charcuterie.

Also on the indulgence lineup is the Himalayan Salt Ritual, a detoxifying and energizing experience that might just leave you glowing like a Himalayan sunrise. This pink salt, famous for its stress-busting and wellness-boosting powers, sets the stage for an unforgettable journey. It all begins with a leisurely thermal tour, where you’re free to roam through seven ancient-inspired baths at your own pace. Start with a hot soak in the Caladrium, then cool things down in the Frigidarium, before finding your sweet spot in the Tepidarium’s cozy warmth. Craving a little more action? Let the thousand jets of the Balneum massage every inch of you, or unwind in the Vaporium’s orange-blossom-scented steam rooms.

For the adventurous spirits, the outdoor Palestra offers a serene soak with the soothing sounds of a waterfall. And don’t even think about leaving without a soak in the Flotarium, a super-salty buoyant bath that makes floating feel like flying. Ready to treat yourself? Click here to learn more and book your spot–it’s your turn to soak in the magic!

Piva Beer Spa - 1052 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago

Piva Beer Spa offers beer lovers the ultimate treat: soaking in warm, frothy beer baths infused with brewer’s yeast and hops known for their skin-nourishing and detoxifying properties. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a pint in hand or pamper yourself in a totally unique way, Piva Beer Spa promises a one-of-a-kind experience that’s equal parts soothing and sudsy. Cheers to self-care, the beer-lover’s way!

Legend has it that Good King Wenceslas of Bohemia (now the Czech Republic) was an old-school beer bather, soaking in wort long before it was cool. Fast-forward a few centuries, and the tradition is still going strong, only now, the wooden tubs are filled with a frothy mix of water, hops, barley, brewer’s wort extracts, and a sweet, floral Czech pilsner. Why? Because this boozy brew isn’t just for sipping--it’s said to repair damaged skin, boost elasticity, hydrate, and zap acne-causing impurities. Plus, the aroma of hops is a natural lullaby, guaranteed to help you snooze like royalty. Not quite your flavor? You can always trade bubbles for salt with a session of Halotherapy.

Piva Beer Spa doesn’t stop at beer baths; they’ve got a salty side, too. Their Halotherapy experience is the stuff of ancient legends, dating back to when the Romans and Greeks would chill in natural salt caves for a wellness boost. These days, you don’t have to hunt for a cave. Piva brings the salt to you with two spa-worthy salt rooms designed to pamper your lungs, skin, and soul.

In the Active Salt Room, a fancy Halo generator pulverizes salt into teeny-tiny particles, filling the air with pure salty goodness. Kick back in a zero-gravity chair, breathe it all in, and let the magic happen. Feeling zen yet?

The Passive Salt Room goes old school, featuring big, beautiful blocks of Himalayan salt that transform the space into a luxe, cave-like retreat. The controlled temperature and humidity levels create a dreamy saline steam that’s as good for your breathing as it is for your skin.

From easing allergies and respiratory woes to boosting your glow and helping you unwind; this salty escape is your new oasis for total relaxation. Ready to soak it in? Click  here to book your reservation.

The Cryobar Lincoln Park - 1205 W. Webster Ave., Suite 1, Chicago

This next spa truly does sound like pure torture. At Cryobar Lincoln Park, their cryotherapy treatment exposes the body to sub-zero temperatures for small bursts of time. Liquid nitrogen is converted into a cooling vapor and the vapor is pumped into a chamber that houses a willing body. Temperatures of the liquid nitrogen vapor can sink to -225 to -250 degrees.

The theory behind this insanity is that the cool vapor brings down the epidermal temperature, triggering the body’s “fight or flight” response. This causes the blood vessels to constrict, redirecting the blood away from the extremities to the core, where it gets super-charged with oxygen and anti-inflammatory proteins.

If a full-body cryotherapy treatment sounds a bit too radical, a cryotoning facial may be a good starting point. The Cryobar Lincoln Park also offers localized body contouring cryotoning treatments.

Chicago winters provide enough cold therapy, so that one does not have to go looking for more. So, if you are looking for something a bit warmer and less torturous, The Cryobar also provides Infrared Sauna therapy. This sauna uses infrared light to directly warm the body as opposed to heat or steam warming. The infrared waves penetrate the skin’s surface at 109 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, promoting muscle relaxation, improved circulation, stress reduction and detox through sweat. Whether you're looking to boost recovery, rejuvenate your skin, or simply try something refreshingly out of the ordinary, Cryobar Lincoln Park delivers a frosty dose of wellness.

Chocolate for Your Body - 1743 S. Halsted St., Chicago

Chocolate for Your Body Spa is the ultimate destination for a sweet indulgence in self-care. This unique spa combines luxurious treatments with the decadent benefits of chocolate. From cocoa-infused body wraps to chocolate scrubs and massages, every service is designed to pamper your skin and soothe your soul. Whether you're a chocoholic or just in need of a little extra TLC, this spa offers a blissful escape that’s as sweet as it sounds.

Chocolate for your Body isn’t just a spa--it’s a chocolate lover’s dream come to life. From the indulgent Chocolate Signature Body Wrap to a full menu of chocolate-infused treatments, this unique Chicago retreat turns sweet dreams into a reality. Imagine being cocooned in warm, cocoa-rich clay, your skin drinking in all the healing benefits before emerging glowing and refreshed. It’s luxury, decadence, and relaxation all rolled into one calorie-free indulgence. So go ahead, treat yourself--because chocolate this good doesn’t belong on a dessert plate, it belongs on you. Book your reservation by clicking here and pamper yourself with a calorie-free indulgence.

King Spa and Sauna Chicago - 809 Civic Center Dr., Niles

King Spa & Sauna Chicago made this list not for quirky treatments but because the whole experience is a vibe. Open 24/7 with no reservations needed, it’s a first-come, first-melt kind of deal. The steamy saunas will dissolve your stress faster than you can say "zen," and the royalty-worthy pools will leave you floating on cloud nine. Packed with amenities you won’t find at your average spa, this spot is all about helping you unwind, recharge, and maybe even lose track of time altogether. Come for relaxation, stay for the distractions—you won’t regret it!

This sprawling 34,000-square-foot spa is packed with everything you need to unwind. Multiple themed saunas, hot and cold therapeutic pools, and a lineup of indulgent massage services may leave you satiated. But wait, there’s more. The real standouts? A movie theater, a mouthwatering Korean restaurant, and a next-level relaxation room. With heated floors, cozy reclining chairs, private screens for movie time, and dim lighting that whispers nap time, the relaxation room is the stuff of dreams. Blankets and pillows are provided, but feel free to bring your own for that extra snuggle factor. And if you can’t tear yourself away, no worries--you can stay overnight in the communal space for a small fee. It’s not a luxury hotel, but it’s way more fun and cozy!

Feeling a bit peckish? The restaurant at King Spa & Sauna Chicago has you covered with a casual, come-as-you-are dining experience. Stay cozy in your spa attire while savoring authentic Korean delights like bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi stew, and crispy Korean pancakes. Craving comfort? Their ramen and soul-warming soups will hit the spot. Prefer something lighter? Fresh salads and refreshing beverages are on hand to perfectly complement your day of relaxation.

If you’re still looking for that extra touch of indulgence, why not head over to the on-site movie theater? At King Spa, the pampering never stops.

The movie theater at King Spa & Sauna Chicago offers a cozy escape, showing family-friendly movies throughout the day. Kick back in your spa attire and relax in the comfortable recliners while you enjoy the show. While outside food isn’t allowed, you can bring along drinks purchased from the restaurant to sip on as you unwind. It’s the perfect way to add a little entertainment to your spa day

From its unique Korean-inspired saunas and therapeutic treatments to its cozy movie theater and authentic dining options, this expansive retreat is the perfect escape from the everyday hustle. You can recharge solo or share a rejuvenating experience with friends or family. Children 10 and older are typically allowed. They must be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times.

Since the spa focuses on relaxation, parents are encouraged to ensure their children respect the calm atmosphere. Some areas, such as saunas or specific pools, may have additional age or height restrictions for safety reasons. If you’re planning a visit with children, it’s a good idea to check directly with King Spa & Sauna Chicago for their most up-to-date policies and guidelines.

Call 847-972-2540 for more information.

So, whether you’re soaking in beer, bathing in chocolate, or getting slapped with leaves by a professional, the world of wacky spas proves one thing: Relaxation doesn’t have to be boring. Why settle for a basic massage when you can tell your friends you detoxed in a salt cave or got a chocolate facial? These quirky treatments may sound crazy, but sometimes the best way to unwind is to embrace the weird and let it work its magic!