Spa Land And Sauna Reviews From Experience: Is It Worth It?

I’ve always been a spa enthusiast, and if you’re anything like me, you know how wonderful it feels to discover a soothing retreat where you can truly switch off.

That’s why I recommend buying a day pass at Spa Land & Sauna—it has consistently been my go-to choice for relaxation and rejuvenation. From the moment I stepped inside, I sensed that I was in for a treat.

Throughout this article, I’m going to share my honest review, tips, and a thorough comparison with other brands so that you can make your own choice with confidence.

My Personal Experience At Spa Land & Sauna

I remember my very first visit: I arrived feeling stressed, exhausted, and in dire need of some serenity.

From the moment I checked in at reception, I noticed a pleasant ambiance that made me feel like I was stepping into a comfortable, welcoming haven.

The entrance fee was $38, which includes access to a locker, the facility’s wet and dry areas, and a uniform for the communal spaces.

Although I felt a bit uneasy about temporarily surrendering my ID, it turned out to be a standard requirement—something that still feels slightly odd, but I got used to it quickly.

When you enter, you’re handed a numbered locker key wristband, which doubles as a payment method for any additional purchases like food or spa treatments. This feels surprisingly freeing—no need to carry cards or wallets around.

After slipping into the spa uniform for coed areas, I walked toward the locker room and found it well-stocked with essentials such as toothbrushes, razors, and small towels. Everything was thoughtfully provided, so you don’t have to lug around your personal grooming supplies.

As I moved on to the wet area, I noticed several soaking tubs with varying temperatures—some hot, some cold. Like many people, I love the contrast of dipping into a hot tub and then cooling off in a cold tub.

The tubs were pristinely clean, and the staff ensured that visitors showered before entering. Being unclothed in the wet area can be intimidating at first, but after a while, it felt liberating.

Everyone was there simply to relax, so there was no awkwardness. This communal comfort is part of what makes the entire experience unique.

I opted for a body scrub and a massage. For those of you who have never tried a Korean-style body scrub, it is quite thorough and, at times, intense in the best way possible. I had the pleasure of working with a massage therapist named Emily, who diligently eased the tension in my shoulders and neck.

The body scrub session was equally impressive—my skin felt noticeably softer afterward, and I walked away glowing. If you’re worried about modesty during treatments, you do have to be comfortable being nude in the wet area, but trust me: no one is paying attention to you, and it’s well worth the slight discomfort if you’re on the fence.

Once I finished my treatments, I ventured into the coed areas. Here, you’ll find multiple themed saunas, quiet spaces for napping or meditating, and even a children’s playroom and media section for families.

My personal favorites are the ice sauna (great for cooling off) and the rock salt sauna, which is said to provide unique therapeutic benefits.

The environment was mostly peaceful, though I did notice some visitors chatting loudly or watching movies on their phones without headphones. While it didn’t ruin my visit, it’s something to be prepared for.

The communal space also features relaxation lounges with plush couches, blankets, and dimmed lighting—perfect for unwinding after a sauna session.

At one point, I found myself curled up on a corner sofa, quietly sipping hot tea, and letting all the day’s tension melt away. For someone who values tranquility, that moment was blissful.

Eventually, hunger kicked in, so I headed to the food court. The menu is diverse and surprisingly tasty, featuring both light snacks and more substantial meals. I highly recommend trying one of their traditional Korean dishes if you’re feeling adventurous.

Everything is charged to your wristband, which you settle at the end of your visit. This convenience lets you focus on relaxing, rather than rummaging for your wallet.

Pros of Spa Land & Sauna

Variety of Amenities: Spa Land & Sauna delivers an extensive range of amenities that cater to diverse preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the hot tub, prefer the invigorating chill of an ice sauna, or long for a quiet meditative nook, there’s something for everyone. They even have a playroom for kids and an area to work if you need to catch up on emails.
Skilled Massage Therapists: Every time I’ve indulged in a massage or body scrub, I’ve been impressed by the therapists’ professionalism and expertise. They tailor each session to individual needs, whether you’re seeking deep tissue relief or a gentle relaxation massage.
Convenient Payment System: The wristband system is incredibly handy. You can enjoy your spa day without juggling cash or cards, then wrap everything up at checkout. It feels almost indulgent to simply scan your wristband for a meal or treatment.
Comprehensive Locker Rooms: Little details matter. The locker rooms are well-stocked with grooming essentials, hairdryers, and ample space to change. Even the shoes are stored in a separate compartment, which helps keep things clean.
Cleanliness and Hygiene: From the wet areas to the coed saunas, I’ve consistently found the facility tidy. The staff does an admirable job of maintaining cleanliness, even when the spa gets busy.

Cons of Spa Land & Sauna

Noise Levels: Although the atmosphere is generally serene, certain visitors can disrupt the tranquility. For instance, some guests watch videos on their phones without headphones, and not everyone respects the “quiet zones.”
Surrendering Your ID: While I’ve grown accustomed to the practice, handing over your ID at the front desk might be unsettling for first-timers. There’s always the off-chance it could be misplaced, though I personally haven’t experienced any problems.
Busy on Weekends: If you come during peak hours—particularly weekends—you may find the common areas crowded. This can limit your ability to enjoy quieter spots or snag your favorite sauna right away.
Limited Towel Sizes: The towels provided in the locker rooms are quite small. They’re functional, but if you like to wrap yourself up in a big, plush towel, you might be disappointed.
Lack of Initial Guidance: If you’re new to the facility, you might wish there was an employee guiding you through each station, explaining the spa’s layout and rules. While signage is decent, it can be confusing for first-time visitors.

Tips for A Spa Day

My routine has evolved through my many visits to Spa Land & Sauna, and I’ve picked up a few tips to maintain the best possible experience:

Shower Before Entering Tubs or Saunas: This is crucial for hygiene and the comfort of everyone around you. A quick rinse keeps the water as clean as possible and prepares your body for the temperature changes.
Alternate Hot and Cold: Moving between hot and cold tubs or saunas can boost circulation. You might notice that your body feels more energized afterward. Just remember not to overdo it. Listen to your body and know your limits.
Hydration is Key: It’s easy to forget to drink water when you’re lounging in a sauna. Always keep water close by and sip regularly, especially if you plan on spending hours at the spa.
Pace Yourself: It can be tempting to jump from one sauna to the next or to tackle multiple treatments in one go. I like to space them out, giving myself time to relax in between. This ensures I’m not overwhelming my body.
Bring Personal Comfort Items: Although the spa provides uniforms and small towels, consider packing a comfy robe or your favorite slippers (if allowed) to optimize your comfort.
Plan Your Arrival Time: If crowds aren’t your thing, come in the morning on weekdays. By mid-afternoon, it’s generally more crowded, which could disrupt the peaceful environment you’re seeking.

Personal Observations And Tips

Optimal Timing: During my first few visits, I usually came on weekends, which turned out to be quite busy. Over time, I discovered weekday mornings are significantly calmer. If you have a flexible schedule, show up on a weekday around 9 or 10 a.m. when the facility opens. You’ll encounter fewer crowds, cleaner facilities, and a more meditative atmosphere.
Etiquette and Courteous Behavior: One of the more important lessons I’ve learned is the importance of respecting others’ peace. Spa Land & Sauna encourages quiet, but not everyone adheres to this norm. If you spot someone talking loudly, politely suggesting they lower their volume can help maintain a serene environment. Additionally, consider bringing headphones if you plan to watch anything on your phone.
Variety in Sauna Temperatures: I love the range of sauna temperatures. The hot ones can be quite intense, prompting a good sweat, while the milder ones are more soothing. If you’re new, test shorter intervals before you stay in any sauna for an extended period. The ice sauna, in particular, can feel bracingly cold, so use it to cool down gradually.
Social Areas vs. Quiet Corners: The communal lounge often has a mix of chatter and quiet. If you’d rather not be around conversation, you can find smaller, tucked-away corners or designated nap rooms. These areas are typically dimly lit and help you slip into a more tranquil state.
Food Court Delights: I’ve made a habit of trying different dishes each time. The kimchi fried rice stands out for its flavor, and the available juices are refreshing after a good sauna session. Prices might be slightly higher than what you’d pay outside, but the convenience and taste make it worth it, especially when you’re already in relaxation mode.
Post-Spa Routine: After an extended stay, I always rinse off in the shower before heading home. For me, it’s a great way to close out the experience—leaving behind any lingering sweat or product residue. I also love applying a gentle moisturizer afterward because the heat and exfoliation can dry out your skin if you’re not careful.

Addressing Common Concerns

Clothing Optional Areas: Yes, in the wet and scrub rooms, you’ll be fully nude. It can be daunting at first, but most people find it freeing after the initial discomfort subsides. If it’s absolutely not for you, simply skip the wet area and head straight to the coed zones.
Digital Detox: Although phones are allowed, I find it beneficial to keep mine locked away in my locker or pocket. Constant notifications can break the immersive relaxation. However, if you do need your phone, keep it on silent.
Length of Stay: Some folks make an entire day out of it—arriving early in the morning and leaving after dinner. Others might only spend a few hours. Both approaches work, but if you want the full experience (saunas, tubs, massage, meal), set aside at least four to five hours.

Comparison of Spa Land & Sauna With Other Brands

Spa Land & Sauna Vs. AIRE Ancient Baths

When I look at these two, the first thing I notice is the difference in ambiance. AIRE Ancient Baths often exudes a serene, candlelit atmosphere reminiscent of historical bathhouses, where the decor feels intentionally minimalist and romantic.

Spa Land & Sauna, on the other hand, comes across as more modern and functional with brighter lighting, larger communal areas, and a greater variety of sauna rooms.

Price-wise, I’ve found that AIRE tends to charge more for shorter sessions, which usually include a specific path of baths and optional add-on treatments.

Spa Land & Sauna costs a flat entry fee, giving you access to multiple amenities like soaking tubs, steam rooms, and themed saunas for as long as you’d like. If you’re looking for a more “boutique” vibe with intimate pools, AIRE might be your choice.

If you want a broader selection of communal areas and multiple temperature rooms, Spa Land & Sauna wins out.

For me, deciding between them comes down to the kind of experience I’m after. AIRE Ancient Baths lends itself to a peaceful, almost hushed environment—perfect if you want a soothing retreat with fewer visitors around you. Spa Land & Sauna feels more bustling and social, especially on weekends, offering a lively communal component.

Spa Land & Sauna Vs. King Spa & Sauna

King Spa & Sauna shares many similarities with Spa Land & Sauna, particularly in its Korean-style facilities.

Both provide an array of themed saunas, a wet area with hot and cold tubs, and the option to get body scrubs.

However, in my personal experience, King Spa & Sauna often has more floor space dedicated to relaxation lounges and meditation nooks, giving you plenty of spots to spread out.

Spa Land & Sauna also boasts quiet areas but feels a bit more compact overall.

When it comes to pricing, both use a flat admission fee model, which is fairly comparable. The difference is in the finer details: King Spa & Sauna sometimes offers promotions or member discounts, whereas Spa Land & Sauna sticks to a straightforward fee.

Another factor is location—King Spa & Sauna has multiple branches in various states, while Spa Land & Sauna is specific to Duluth International Village. If you’re local to Duluth, Spa Land & Sauna could be more convenient, but if you have a King Spa nearby, that might be the easier pick.

In terms of family friendliness, they’re both welcoming, though Spa Land & Sauna has a dedicated children’s playroom, which might tip the scales if you’re planning a family outing.

Conversely, King Spa can feel a bit quieter in the main communal areas, making it ideal for those seeking a calmer scene without as many kids around.

Spa Land & Sauna Vs. Spa Castle

Spa Castle and Spa Land & Sauna both emphasize a theme-park-like approach to relaxation, offering a wide assortment of pools, saunas, and even waterpark-style features at certain locations.

If you’re craving a more “resort” feel with multiple floors and varied water attractions, Spa Castle might excite you more—some branches even include rooftop pools and extra amenities.

In contrast, Spa Land & Sauna has a more straightforward layout, focusing on the traditional Korean bathhouse concept but still delivering multiple sauna themes and relaxation spots.

I’ve noticed Spa Castle can get quite crowded on weekends, especially because of its family-oriented offerings. Lines for certain amenities can form, which may interrupt the flow of your day. Spa Land & Sauna can also be busy, but I’ve found the crowd more spread out across different rooms.

Budget-wise, Spa Castle’s entry fee is typically in the same ballpark, though additional charges might crop up for certain attractions. Spa Land & Sauna keeps it simpler: one fee for basic entry, and then you add on services like massages or body scrubs as you please.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for a blend of waterpark fun and spa relaxation, Spa Castle might appeal to you. If you’d rather have a calmer, more traditionally Korean environment, Spa Land & Sauna is the pick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does spa land work?

Spa Land & Sauna operates on a daily admission basis. Once you pay the entry fee, you receive a locker key wristband and a spa uniform. You’re free to explore the wet areas (where nudity is required) and the communal coed sections. Services such as massages, body scrubs, and dining are available for extra charges. You can add these fees to your wristband, then settle your total bill at checkout.

How long do people spend at Spa Land?

Visitors often spend anywhere from a couple of hours to an entire day. Some people come just for a quick soak or sauna session, staying around two or three hours, while others make it a full day of treatments, relaxation, and dining. If you want to try multiple saunas, enjoy a massage, and treat yourself to a meal, plan on at least four to five hours to fully take advantage of the amenities.

Is sauna included in spa?

Yes, access to the sauna rooms is typically included in your general admission fee. Spa Land & Sauna features various themed sauna rooms, such as rock salt, ice, and far-infrared. These areas are coed and require you to wear the provided uniform. The wet areas, which also include hot and cold tubs, are separate zones where you’re nude. But all saunas in the coed areas come standard with your entry.

Can you sleep at Jeju sauna?

In many Korean-style spas (sometimes referred to as “jjimjilbangs”), people do nap or spend extended hours relaxing—particularly in the communal resting rooms. Some are open 24 hours. However, policies can differ from one facility to another. While “sleeping” might be allowed in the lounge areas, it might not be an official overnight accommodation. If you’re considering an overnight stay at Jeju or a similar facility, contact them directly to confirm their policy.

Wrapping Up

All in all, Spa Land & Sauna has consistently provided me with a deeply relaxing and enjoyable experience. I truly recommend you treat yourself to a day pass, especially if you crave a balance of hot tubs, sauna rooms, and rejuvenating massages.

Whether you’re a seasoned spa-goer or a total newcomer, you’ll likely find it worthwhile. The inviting environment, skilled staff, and robust amenities make it one of my go-to escapes whenever I need a moment of peace and care.