The spa situation: no on-site spa — how to get treatments nearby
Chicago Athletic Association does not have an on‑site spa. If you want treatments, the concierge can book appointments and provide directions or a discount to nearby partner spas, and you can also use the 24‑hour fitness center or off‑site spa options within easy reach.
In this guide
Why there’s no spa at the hotel
Chicago Athletic Association does not offer an in‑house spa or pool, despite its athletic‑club name and historic public spaces. The property concentrates guest services on dining, social spaces, fitness, and event venues instead.
That said, the hotel supports guest wellness through a 24‑hour fitness facility and by partnering with nearby wellness providers — the concierge can point you to local spas and often arranges preferred rates or passes. Photo: 0
| Fact | What it means |
|---|---|
| No on‑site spa | Treatments must be booked off site or via hotel partner |
| 24‑hour fitness center | On‑site option for workouts; personal training available |
| Spa discount available | Hotel lists a discount to a nearby Exhale location (verify at concierge) |
Ask the concierge — quickest way to arrange a treatment
The hotel concierge is the easiest route: they can recommend local spas, check availability, book appointments, and confirm any partner discounts. Tell them when you want your treatment and whether you need transport or accessibility accommodations.
Concierge and front‑desk staff can also advise on timing relative to your arrival or departure (check‑in at 3:00 PM, check‑out by 12:00 PM) and help arrange same‑day bookings when possible. Photo: 2
- Ask about the hotel’s discount to a nearby luxury spa and gym (confirm current details at check‑in)
- Request a masseuse, facialist, or special service and note gender or accessibility needs
- Ask for recommended providers that offer mobile (in‑room) treatments if you prefer staying in your room
Nearby spa and gym partners to consider
The hotel references partner options rather than providing a full in‑house spa; one publicly noted partner is Exhale Luxury Spa & Gym for guests seeking premium treatments and gym access. Confirm current partners and any guest discounts with the concierge.
If you want a specific experience (deep‑tissue massage, facial, or spa package), tell the concierge so they can match you to the best local provider and check availability for your dates.
- Exhale Luxury Spa & Gym — listed as a hotel partner (confirm hours and booking with concierge)
- Independent day spas in the Loop and River North — many offer massage, facials, and packages
- Mobile therapists — available through local spa booking services and sometimes bookable through hotel concierge
| Provider type | Common services |
|---|---|
| Luxury spa partner | Full‑service massages, facials, body treatments, gym access |
| Independent day spa | Massage, facial, manicure/pedicure |
| Mobile therapist | In‑room massage, reflexology, relaxation treatments |
If you prefer in‑room treatments
Ask the concierge whether a mobile therapist can come to your room; some local spas and independent therapists offer in‑room massages and beauty services. The hotel can usually confirm credentials and handle scheduling.
When booking in‑room services, mention your room type (for example Room, 1 King Bed or Junior Suite (Millennium View)) so the hotel and therapist know where to set up and whether extra space or a massage table is needed.
- Provide preferred treatment length and any medical concerns
- Confirm arrival window and where the therapist should report (front desk or room)
- Ask whether gratuity is included or if payment is handled directly with the therapist
Timing and getting there from the hotel
Chicago Athletic Association sits on Michigan Avenue across from Millennium Park, so many Loop and River North spas are a short transit or rideshare away. The hotel’s concierge can give walking directions or arrange a rideshare pickup.
If you have a tight schedule around check‑in (3:00 PM) or check‑out (12:00 PM), book treatments accordingly and allow time to get to external appointments — the concierge can help coordinate timing. Photo: 104
- Ask concierge for exact walking directions or transit options to the spa you choose
- Request spa confirmations with arrival times that leave buffer time before other plans
- If mobility or accessibility needs apply, request accessible treatment rooms when you book
| When to book | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Before arrival | Secure preferred times and therapists |
| Same day (via concierge) | Possible but more limited availability |
| Around check‑out | Schedule early‑morning slots or in‑room services to avoid rushing |
Alternatives if you just want to relax
If you don’t need a full spa treatment, the hotel offers several low‑effort options: the Drawing Room lobby bar for coffee and calm seating, the Game Room for casual social play, and the 24‑hour fitness center for a workout or stretch class.
You can also use the hotel’s seasonal Heritage Bicycles (when available) to get fresh air, or ask the concierge for low‑effort wellness options like a recommended nearby yoga studio or a short massage appointment at a partner location.
- Drawing Room — quiet lobby seating and beverage service
- 24‑hour fitness facility — personal training available on request
- Hotel partner spas or short‑service spots — quick neck/shoulder treatments often available locally
What to confirm before you go
Before leaving the hotel for an off‑site spa appointment, confirm the provider’s cancellation policy, whether a credit card is required, and what forms of payment or gratuity are accepted. The concierge can review these details for you.
Also confirm any discounts or complimentary amenities the hotel partner may include for guests (for example, gym access or preferred pricing), because partner benefits can change and the concierge will have the most current information.
- Confirm arrival time, session length, and cancellation policy
- Ask whether the hotel’s partner discount is applied automatically or needs a code
- Check whether the spa provides robes, lockers, or showers if you plan to return to the hotel afterward
