Leaf Spa at The Fairmont Chicago

Leaf Spa sits on the B1 level of the Fairmont Chicago in the Loop, reached through a candlelit hallway that leads to a small indoor wish tree before the treatment area. It's an appointment-only spa built for hotel guests, with a menu that runs through massages, facials and body treatments alongside a sauna, steam room and hot tub for pre- or post-treatment soaking.

The signature service is Lavender Love, a massage built around essential oils, crystals and a tuning fork, aimed at easing tension through the upper body. Couples have their own draw: a side-by-side candlelit massage in a private duet suite with its own infinity-edge soaking tub, meant for pairs rather than solo visits. There's also a Sunday offering called Soulful Sunday, pairing sound bowl healing with guided meditation and intention setting.

Hours run 10am to 6pm Monday through Thursday and 9am to 6pm Friday through Sunday. Everything is booked in advance rather than walk-in, and payment is settled by physical card at the end of the service, with a 20 percent service charge added to the listed menu prices before any additional tip. Valet parking is available for those driving in. Given the hotel-guest access rule, day-trippers should confirm with the spa directly whether outside bookings are possible before planning a visit.