Pure Serenity Spa - Chicago, Illinois

Sarah P.

Believe the bad reviews. I try to avoid Chinese-style massage because I don’t like it but I didn’t realize this spa was that. Unfortunately i also didn't read the Google reviews before buying the Groupon. I also need to remind myself to check the training of any massage therapist. The physical space is as others describe—not private and they don’t even try to use sound machines to mask any noise. It was pretty quiet when I was in there but I could hear them whispering and giggling and then when a dude came in and got on his bed— awkward. Each space is set up for a couples massage so I think that’s where most of their business comes from and that’s why the reviews are skewed—it’s hard to rate a romantic gesture as bad. and probably those folks don't go for massages very often. My massage person used firm pressure which I wanted but she didn’t follow the muscle tissue or work knots. Instead she used her knuckles starting at my neck and moved in a radial pattern down and across my upper back. She used the same knuckles and pressure when crossing bones and it hurt. It felt better on my butt/hips but then she moved up into my lower back with the same move and pressure and it felt like I was being punched in the kidney. her strokes were too fast and not intentional or relaxing. The face massage dragged my eyeskin. I’ve had much better massage and hot stone experiences elsewhere using Groupons so this was very disappointing. i hqd read (just before i went, sigh) about the pressure to tip (which is accurate) so I left mine in cash on the bed. When I told them at the front desk I’d done that, my person immediately turned around and ran back to the room for it. I won’t be going back.

Jacob

My partner and I went in for a couple's massage this weekend and had a great experience. I saw other reviews mentioning that it was too cold in there and I was worried because I am a big baby when it comes to temperature, but I felt at a completely comfortable temp when I was getting my massage.

Other reviews did call out that the massage room the walls don't go all the way to the ceiling, so you can hear noises coming from the other rooms. There is music playing so 95% of the time I heard nothing outside of our room besides once when someone in another room dropped something.

Overall, I asked for a firm pressure massage and highlighted a couple of my pain points beforehand, and they really focused in on those spots and I left feeling great.

Manja P.

One of the best massages we’ve had in Chicago! The therapists here have the perfect touch—deep enough to relieve tension without being painfully intense. The ambiance is soothing, the space is clean and inviting, and the attention to detail makes for an incredibly relaxing experience. From the warm towels to the expertly targeted pressure points, everything felt thoughtfully done. If you're looking for a place that balances therapeutic relief with pure relaxation, Pure Serenity Spa is a must-visit!

Suzanne G.

My GF surprised me with a couple's massage for my birthday a few weeks ago. This place was so lovely. We accidently arrived late due to traffic and although this impacted there schedule, they were so accomodating to us. I really appreciated that. Plus the massage was great! It was so nice, they hit every pressure point and are extremely respectful. My only issue were the customers that did not respect the signs that say quiet. Like bro, we can hear everything, jeez. It is disruptive to other customers because everyone can hear you from the lobby. Please respect the property's rules as you would not like it when it happens to your massage. However, the Spa is absolutely lovely otherwise.

Madison S.

When we arrived for our couples massage, we were shushed right away. As soon as I gave them my name, I was asked to "pay cash right now". Then again, "yes, cash first" as I quickly fumbled for my wallet.

The massage was so bizarre. First, there was very loud and persistent banging from next door for the first 30 minutes. We were to remain under the sheets while they truly just pushed and prodded up and down our body. Not a "massage-technique" by any means. Then, the the oil massage—at best, I left well-moisturized. At worst, I was freezing and being rubbed down with no pressure, and no specialized attention to any specific muscle group. We were not convinced the people working on us were actually licensed. They also carried on a whispered conversation between the two of them for a notable portion of time.

I cannot emphasize this enough: this is the least relaxing environment I have ever been in for a massage. Eventually, I understood why they shushed us when we walked in; you can hear EVERYTHING throughout the spa. The "walls" are just temporary dividers that don't reach the ceiling, the floors are extremely creaky, and there is not the slightest attempt at sound-muffling. You can hear the toilet flushing down the hall (repeatedly), you can hear every word whispered throughout all the rooms, every guest walking in and past your room... It was so unintimate and distracting. It also was so so cold throughout the building.

In summary:
Not only was the atmosphere uncomfortable, distracting, and cold... the massages were bad, and the people working there were unprofessional.

Delora A.

My partner and I got a couples massage with hot rocks and cupping. Staff was very professional. Best massage I’ve ever had! Would definitely recommend

Cherazade S.

One of the best Massage i ever had ! Mars is very precise and handles very well. I felt like a new person after 60 minutes. I recommend!

Paula B.

The best massage I’ve ever had!! I feel like a new person. I cannot wait to return and I’ve never been a big massage person.