Haute Top 5: The Best Spas in Chicago

The Peninsula Hotel's luxe health and wellness center offers spa treatments inspired by Asian and Ayurvedic practices designed to relax both mind and body alike. But what really gives the spa superlative quality is its location. The Peninsula Spa sits on the entire 19th and 20th floors of the hotel, offering sweeping views of the city. If temperatures cooperate, time on the sun-deck is a must.

Looking for a spa day instead of just a spa treatment? Try Chuan. You'll easily be able to fill a few blissful hours with a pre-treatment bathing ritual (a complimentary experience that alternates time in a salt sauna, Chamomile steam room, and hot stone lounger with a view of the city), followed by a signature service like the Tao of Detox (featuring lymph-stimulating exfoliation and a warm marine algae wrap) and capped off with a dip in the hotel pool or a cat nap in the Dream Room.

Allyu Spa may share a building with Groupon, but the ambience is the exact opposite of a frenetic corporate office. In fact, just walking through the doors of Allyu will make you feel an instant sense of calm. From the warm, whisper-quiet atmosphere, to the textured clay and reclaimed wood walls, to the meditation tent located at the center of the space, the spa is designed to celebrate nature and relaxation, and guaranteed to take you far away from the chaos of city life.

If you like options, head to Exhale. The high-end spa and fitness studio has plenty of them. Among the 11 different massages on the menu you'll find a Swedish-style Flow massage, a targeted craniosacral therapy, and a Thai & Massage option that incorporates 30 minutes of yoga and acupressure followed by an hour-long massage. The 13 facials offered include a brightening treatment, an after-sun facial, and options for back and décolleté.

Inside one of the city's poshest hotel's you'll also find one of it's most luxurious spas...and treatments with indulgent twists. The hot-stone massage is done with lava shells, and the pedicure includes an Ohana gingergrass and cherry blossom rice scrub. Included with spa appointments is access to the spa's facilities, so allow yourself plenty of time to take advantage of the Eucalyptus steam room, sauna, jacuzzi and relaxation lounge.