From the moment you walk into the new Virgin Hotel, you know you’re somewhere cool. The light is dim–but not too dim–and the art is funky, but not too eccentric. It’s dark but warm, trendy but unique. It’s just right.
The feeling continues as you cross the red carpet and travel down the wide staircase to the super hip spa below. The Spa at Virgin Hotels celebrates its grand opening Tuesday evening, but already the staff is making its presence known with everything from pitch-perfect manicures and relaxing pedicures (the latter in comfy, high-back chairs, no less) to massages or some time in the hammam—a traditional Turkish bath also thought of as a cross between a steam and a sauna. The hammam is the first of its kind in Chicago, and it invites men and women alike to socialize in a soothing, steamy atmosphere where they will feel rejuvenated.
Photograph: Courtesy of The Spa at Virgin Hotels
The spa is the perfect place to stop in between appointments or on your lunch break during a busy day downtown, and that’s exactly the point. “We’re trying to avoid the sort of stuffy ritual that you might have seen in the past, and instead have a really flexible and fun experience for our guests,” said Dina Giardina, director of sales and marketing for Virgin Hotels. “I’m super excited personally…I want a quick place in the Loop to say, ‘OK, I have 20 minutes between appointments. What can I get done?’”
Pop in for a quick 15-minute polish change and make fast friends at the nail bar, or stay for the day and try out a specialty treatment like the Red Flower Nature Body Treatment or emerginC Peel and Glow. The emerginC facial combines active Vitamin C, natural fruit acids and botanical extracts to brighten skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The bonus? All of the product line smells amazing.
You’ll also find fun special offers at the spa. Beginning June 22, stop in for Happy Hour Lunch, Monday through Friday. For $60 you can get a 30-minute massage or facial and have a healthy lunch from Miss Ricky’s, choosing from items like the veggie or turkey wraps. The spa is open from 10am—10pm daily and offers appointments as well as accepts walk-ins. To make an appointment, email spachicago@virginhotels.com or call 312-940-4790.