King Spa & Sauna

📍 Civic Center Plaza, 809 Civic Center Dr, Niles, Illinois, 60714

Cold Plunge & Sauna

This spa is noted as the first Korean spa in the U.S. and features unique facilities like a Fire Sudatorium and Bul Gama. Spa-goers frequently highlight the variety of dry sauna rooms, each with different temperatures and decor, which provide a space for heat therapy and relaxation. Guests describe the dry sauna features as cost-effective compared to other local spas. The gender-separate nude area includes heated pools and tubs, which guests consistently praise for being clean and well-organized. The pools are described as heated, though not at hot tub temperature. A range of small rooms offer different thermal experiences, though some guests note that floor materials can appear sweat-stained.

Atmosphere

The spa offers a very quiet and relaxing atmosphere where guests are polite and mindful of space. This environment contributes to what some describe as a spiritual awakening experience. However, the atmosphere can be disrupted by crowding during peak times and holidays, and some guests find the staff's enforcement of quiet rules, such as parading "no talking" signs, to be intrusive and disruptive to the peaceful vibe.

Pricing

Pricing receives mixed feedback. Some spa-goers find the services moderately priced for a spa experience, while many others feel the admission fee is expensive, especially as it has increased over time without noticeable facility improvements. The food and drinks inside the restaurant are frequently described as overpriced. Discounts or coupons from services like Groupon are available but some guests still do not feel the value is adequate.

Staff

Feedback on staff is mixed. The man at the entrance is noted as very helpful and polite, and staff are generally described as friendly and not pushy, allowing guests to explore on their own. However, other experiences cite unprofessional behavior, such as staff not washing hands, having loud conversations, or providing poor customer service when inquiring about services. Long wait times for services like facials, due to apparent understaffing and no advance booking system, are a significant point of frustration.

Additional Amenities

The spa features an on-site restaurant where the food quality is praised as fresh and a great treat, though pricing is a common critique. Basic amenities like towels, shower supplies, and slippers are not routinely provided; guests receive one hand towel and must rent or purchase additional items. Personal slippers are not allowed to be worn in all areas, which some guests find unusual and a sanitization concern.