Best Cold Plunge Studios in NYC, LA, and Chicago: 2026 Guide

Cold plunge studios have gone from niche biohacker hangouts to mainstream wellness destinations. The global cold plunge market hit $330 million in 2024 and is growing at 8.1% annually (Grand View Research, 2025). Nowhere is that growth more visible than in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago — three cities where new studios seem to open every month.

This guide breaks down the best cold plunge studios across all three cities. Pricing, water temperatures, amenities, what to expect on your first visit. Whether you're deciding between a studio experience or setting up an ice bath at home, this is the most current rundown available.

Affiliate Disclosure: Some links in this guide may be affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This does not influence our recommendations — every studio listed was evaluated on merit.

Why Cold Plunge Studios Are Worth Trying

Before we get into specific locations, it helps to understand why people are paying $30-$150 per session to sit in cold water.

A 2024 study published in Advanced Biology found that brief cold water immersion triggers the release of cold-shock proteins, initiating cellular changes that support metabolic health and immune function. These same proteins may have anti-aging effects by increasing cellular resilience.

The numbers back up the hype. Research from the European Journal of Applied Physiology (2024) showed that contrast therapy — alternating between hot sauna and cold plunge — increased norepinephrine levels by 530% compared to baseline. That's the neurotransmitter responsible for alertness, focus, and mood elevation.

A 2025 clinical review reported that cold water immersion after intense exercise improved perceived recovery and reduced muscle soreness within 24 hours, particularly when immersion lasted under 15 minutes. And a separate 2025 PLOS One meta-analysis of 11 studies found measurable improvements in sleep quality and stress reduction among regular cold water therapy practitioners.

For a deeper look at the research, check out our breakdown of cold plunge benefits backed by science.

Studios offer advantages that home setups can't match: commercial-grade filtration, precise temperature control, guided breathwork sessions, and the accountability of showing up somewhere. Most also pair cold plunges with infrared saunas for contrast therapy, which research suggests amplifies the benefits of either modality alone.

New York City

NYC has the densest concentration of cold plunge studios in the country. Competition keeps quality high and — in some cases — prices surprisingly accessible.

1. Kove Studio

Locations: East Village (268 E 7th St) and Williamsburg, Brooklyn Price: Cold plunge $10 | Sauna $20 | Sauna + cold plunge $25 | Full experience $35 Hours: Mon-Tue, Thu-Sun 7am-11pm | Wed 7pm-11pm Entity Page: Kove Studio

Kove is the best value cold plunge in Manhattan. Period. At $10 for a cold plunge session and $25 for sauna plus plunge, it undercuts nearly every competitor in the city by 50-80%.

The studio is small and intimate — this isn't a sprawling bathhouse. That's part of its charm. Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness, the welcoming owners, and the no-frills approach. One ClassPass reviewer called it "a perfect wellness treat for your physical and mental health at an excellent price."

What makes it stand out:

• Most affordable cold plunge in NYC at $10 per session
• Full recovery experience (sauna, plunge, compression, red light mask) for just $35
• Intimate setting with high hygiene standards
• Available on ClassPass for flexible booking
• Multiple locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn

Best for: Budget-conscious plungers and anyone who wants consistent access without a $200+/month membership.

2. Therabody Reset

Address: Manhattan West, 395 9th Ave (near Hudson Yards) Price: Cold plunge membership from $249/month | Gold membership $399/month | Platinum $549/month Entity Page: Therabody Reset

Therabody Reset is the opposite end of the spectrum from Kove — a premium, tech-forward wellness destination backed by one of the biggest names in recovery technology. The Manhattan West flagship opened in late 2023 and features infrared saunas, cold plunges, cryotherapy chambers reaching -117 degrees Fahrenheit, percussive massage, IV vitamin drips, and their proprietary TheraMind meditation program.

A Nylon reviewer wrote that "less than three minutes in the cryotherapy chamber truly rewired my brain for the better." The facility feels more like a high-end medical spa than a cold plunge studio.

What makes it stand out:

• Cryotherapy chamber at -117°F for those who want extreme cold exposure
• Full-spectrum recovery: percussive therapy, compression, electrical stimulation, IV drips
• Gold membership ($399/month) includes three treatments per day with complimentary add-ons
• Platinum tier ($549/month) adds four monthly IV treatments
• Backed by Therabody's sports science research team

Membership breakdown:

Best for: Serious athletes, executives, and wellness enthusiasts who want an all-in-one recovery destination and don't mind paying for it.

3. Schwet

Address: 78 Franklin Street, Tribeca Price: General admission $150 for 2.5 hours

Schwet is Tribeca's answer to the Scandinavian bathhouse experience. The cold plunge is maintained at 48°F with top-of-the-line water filtration — some of the cleanest cold water you'll find in any NYC studio. The 2.5-hour sessions give you time to cycle through multiple rounds of hot and cold without feeling rushed.

What makes it stand out:

• 48°F cold plunge with advanced filtration systems
• Extended 2.5-hour sessions for deep contrast therapy circuits
• Tribeca location with refined, minimalist design
• Focus on water quality and cleanliness above all else

Best for: Those who prioritize water quality and want a longer, more meditative cold plunge experience.

4. Saint Chelsea

Address: 242 West 29th Street, Chelsea Price: Single session from $90 (60 minutes)

Saint launched in early 2025 and quickly became one of the most sought-after bookings in Manhattan. The concept is simple and brilliant: fully private cedar dry saunas paired with slate-lined ice baths and rain showers. Every session is just you (or your guest) in a beautifully designed private suite.

What makes it stand out:

• Completely private — no sharing the plunge with strangers
• Private cedar sauna, ice bath, and rain shower in each suite
• 60-minute sessions with full control over your experience
• Modern, design-forward space in Chelsea

Best for: Introverts, first-timers who want privacy, and couples looking for a unique wellness date.

5. Lore Bathing Club

Address: 676 Broadway, NoHo Price: Week pass $90 | Membership from $200/month (75-minute sessions Mon-Fri)

Lore positions itself as a "neighborhood bathing club" — less spa, more daily habit. Founded by alumni from Lifetime Fitness and Neuhouse, the concept is built around frequency. Their $200/month membership gets you 75-minute weekday sessions with Finnish sauna, infrared sauna, and cold plunge access.

What makes it stand out:

• Designed for daily or near-daily use, not occasional visits
• Both Finnish and infrared sauna options
• Members-club atmosphere with a creative, wellness-minded crowd
• Weekday-focused programming encourages routine building

Best for: Regulars who want cold plunging to become part of their daily routine, not a once-a-month treat.

6. Complete Wellness NYC

Entity Page: Complete Wellness NYC

Complete Wellness NYC offers cold plunge as part of a broader integrative wellness program. The studio combines cold water therapy with other recovery modalities including chiropractic care, physical therapy, and acupuncture. Their approach is more clinical than most studios on this list — the cold plunge is positioned as one tool in a comprehensive recovery toolkit rather than the main attraction.

What makes it stand out:

• Integrative approach combining cold plunge with clinical care
• Medical professionals on staff for guidance
• Good option for injury recovery or chronic pain management
• Insurance may cover certain services

Best for: People seeking cold plunge therapy as part of a broader health or recovery plan, especially those with specific medical concerns.

NYC Pricing Comparison

Los Angeles

LA's cold plunge scene skews toward outdoor spaces, holistic wellness, and — this being LA — celebrity-backed concepts. The climate means many studios incorporate open-air elements you won't find in NYC or Chicago.

7. Pause Studio

Locations: West Hollywood, Brentwood, Studio City, Venice, and expanding nationally Price: Single sessions from $45-$65 | Packages and memberships available Entity Page: Pause Studio

Pause is the franchise powerhouse of the cold plunge world. Founded in LA in 2016, the company is on track to have 25 studios nationwide by the end of 2025. In July 2025, they partnered with Alo Moves to launch an immersive Contrast Breathwork Series across all locations.

Each location offers flotation therapy, infrared sauna, cold plunge, cryotherapy, vitamin therapy, LED light therapy, and compression therapy. It's the most complete menu of recovery services on this list.

What makes it stand out:

• Four LA locations (West Hollywood, Brentwood, Studio City, Venice) with consistent quality
• Partnership with Alo Moves for guided contrast breathwork programming
• Full recovery menu: float tanks, cryo, infrared sauna, cold plunge, IV drips, LED, compression
• Franchise model means consistent experience across locations
• Founded in 2016 — one of the longest-running cold plunge operations in the country

Best for: Anyone who wants variety in their recovery routine. The breadth of services means you can mix cold plunge days with float days, cryo days, or combination sessions.

8. IcePass

Locations: Santa Monica, Venice, Mar Vista (4 locations total) Price: Contrast Therapy Subscription from $99/month (unlimited) | Drop-in available via ClassPass Water Temperature: 37-44°F

IcePass is the best deal in LA for unlimited cold plunge access. At $99/month for unlimited sessions at all four locations — including traditional Finnish saunas above 200°F, commercial-grade cold plunges at 37-44°F, showers, and lockers — it's hard to beat the value.

The setup is smart: IcePass partners with existing fitness facilities (Sweat60, Paradiso CrossFit, MudWtr Gather) to offer sauna and plunge access within gym environments. Less overhead means lower prices.

What makes it stand out:

• $99/month unlimited access across all LA locations
• Commercial-grade cold plunges maintained at 37-44°F
• Traditional Finnish saunas above 200°F
• Partnerships with established fitness facilities
• Open 7 days a week

For context on those water temperatures, our temperature guide breaks down what different ranges feel like and which is right for your goals.

Best for: Westside LA residents who want affordable, frequent access to cold plunge and sauna without a luxury price tag.

9. Teddy's Hot House

Address: Venice Beach Price: 90-minute sessions (contact for current pricing)

The origin story here is too good to skip. Edward "Teddy" Winthrop started with a sauna and ice tub in his Venice Beach backyard. Friends came. Then friends of friends. Eventually he turned it into a proper studio. That grassroots, community-first energy still defines the experience.

Each 90-minute session cycles through hot sauna, outdoor shower, and cold plunge. The outdoor setting in Venice gives it a distinctly LA feel that indoor studios can't replicate.

What makes it stand out:

• Born from a backyard operation — authentic community vibe
• Outdoor elements unique to the Venice Beach location
• 90-minute sessions with structured hot/cold cycling
• Small group sizes for a personal experience

Best for: People who want the social, community aspect of cold plunging in a laid-back, Venice Beach setting.

10. RVIVL

Location: Los Angeles (check website for current address) Price: Memberships and packages available

RVIVL focuses on contrast therapy as its core offering, with sauna, cold plunge, and compression boots as the primary modalities. The team is known for being hands-on — guiding newcomers through their first sessions and making the process approachable.

What makes it stand out:

• Staff guides you through every step, ideal for first-timers
• Contrast therapy-focused programming
• Compression boots included in sessions
• Welcoming, non-intimidating atmosphere

Best for: Cold plunge beginners who want guidance and a supportive environment.

11. American Cold Plunge

Address: Whittier, CA (east of downtown LA) Price: Contact for current pricing

American Cold Plunge is a boutique studio that takes a different approach: when you book, you get the entire unit to yourself. No scheduling around other people's sessions, no sharing the water. The studio emphasizes tranquility, privacy, and state-of-the-art facilities.

What makes it stand out:

• Fully private sessions — the entire unit is yours
• Boutique, spa-like ambiance
• State-of-the-art filtration and temperature control
• Located in Whittier, east of downtown LA (less crowded, easier parking)

Best for: Those who want a completely private, appointment-only cold plunge experience.

LA Pricing Comparison

Chicago

Chicago's cold plunge scene is younger than NYC's or LA's, but it's growing fast. The city's brutal winters have actually created a natural cold plunge culture — Chicagoans who've survived a February Lake Michigan dip aren't intimidated by a 40°F tub.

12. Sweathouz (Old Town and West Loop)

Locations: Old Town | West Loop Price: Single session $60 | 4-session membership $159/month | Unlimited from $229/month Session Length: 60 minutes

Sweathouz is a national franchise, but their Chicago locations in Old Town and West Loop are among the best in the chain. Every session is a private 60-minute experience in a suite equipped with infrared sauna, cold plunge, and a vitamin C shower.

The private suite model means you're never sharing your cold plunge. You control the timing of your hot-cold cycles. And the vitamin C shower between rounds is a nice touch that most studios don't offer.

What makes it stand out:

• Private suites with infrared sauna, cold plunge, and vitamin C shower
• 60-minute sessions with complete privacy
• Two Chicago locations (Old Town and West Loop)
• Membership valid at any Sweathouz location nationwide
• App-based booking with seamless text follow-up

Pricing breakdown:

Best for: People who want a premium, private cold plunge experience with the consistency of a national brand.

13. Contrast Hot + Cold

Address: 738 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago (West Town) Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-12pm & 3pm-8pm | Sat-Sun 8am-7pm Price: Community room $39 | Private suite $59 | Unlimited membership $149/month

Contrast is a locally owned Chicago studio that balances community and privacy well. Their community room lets you share the experience with others at $39 per visit — one of the most affordable options in the city. Want privacy? Private suites start at $59.

The studio offers infrared saunas, cold plunges, and red light therapy in both communal and private settings. The West Town location on Milwaukee Ave puts it in one of Chicago's most walkable neighborhoods.

What makes it stand out:

• Community room option at just $39 per visit
• Both communal and private experiences available
• Red light therapy included alongside hot/cold modalities
• Locally owned with strong neighborhood ties
• Affordable 5-pack options ($169 community, $249 private)

Pricing breakdown:

Best for: Budget-conscious Chicagoans and anyone who enjoys the social element of communal plunging.

14. Oak Street Sauna

Address: 1001 N Lake Shore Dr (Oak Street Beach) Price: Sessions from $45 (15-min) to $440 (group of 12, 2 hours) Season: Limited-time lakefront pop-up (check availability)

Oak Street Sauna is unlike anything else on this list. It's an open-air sauna right on the Chicago lakefront, steps from Oak Street Beach. The cold plunge? Lake Michigan itself. Or close to it — the setup pairs 200-degree sauna heat with a nearby cold plunge station, all with sweeping views of the skyline.

The concept went viral on social media when it debuted in late 2025. Owner Paul Mokrzan was inspired to start the business after Jeremy Allen White told GQ that a bathhouse was one of the 10 things he couldn't live without.

What makes it stand out:

• Only lakeside sauna experience in Chicago
• 200-degree heat paired with cold plunge and Lake Michigan views
• Group bookings for up to 12 people (2-hour private sessions)
• Viral social media presence — frequently featured in Chicago media
• Seasonal availability adds exclusivity

Best for: Experience seekers, groups, and anyone who wants their cold plunge with a skyline backdrop.

15. Perspire Sauna Studio

Locations: Multiple Chicago-area locations Price: Day pass $60 | Monthly membership $119 | Private session $60

Perspire is a national franchise with several Chicago-area locations. Their model focuses on infrared sauna sessions with cold plunge access. At $119/month for membership, it sits in the middle of Chicago's pricing spectrum.

What makes it stand out:

• Multiple locations across the Chicago metro area
• Infrared sauna focus with cold plunge access
• Consistent, franchise-quality experience
• Affordable membership at $119/month

Best for: Suburbanites who want a convenient, no-frills sauna and cold plunge option close to home.

Chicago Pricing Comparison

How to Choose the Right Studio

Picking a studio comes down to four things:

1. Budget. The range across these three cities is enormous — $10 per session at Kove Studio to $549/month at Therabody Reset. If you plan to go 3+ times per week, a membership almost always makes more financial sense. IcePass at $99/month unlimited is the best value per session on this list.

2. Privacy vs. Community. Some people want to plunge alone. Others thrive on the group energy. Studios like Saint Chelsea and Sweathouz offer total privacy. Contrast Hot + Cold and Teddy's Hot House lean into the communal experience. Neither is better — it depends on what motivates you.

3. Temperature. Water temperatures vary significantly. IcePass maintains 37-44°F. Schwet holds at 48°F. Some studios let you adjust. If you're new to cold plunging, check our temperature guide to understand what different ranges feel like before you book.

4. Additional Services. If cold plunging is your only interest, a focused studio like Kove or IcePass makes sense. If you want contrast therapy, IV drips, compression, float tanks, and red light therapy under one roof, Pause Studio or Therabody Reset offer more breadth.

For a comprehensive breakdown of what to expect and how to prepare, our complete cold plunge guide covers everything from breathing techniques to post-plunge protocols.

What to Expect at Your First Studio Visit

Walking into a cold plunge studio for the first time can be intimidating. Here's what a typical session looks like:

Arrival (5-10 minutes). You'll check in, change into swimwear, and store your belongings. Most studios provide towels and shower access. Some provide robes.

Warm-up (10-20 minutes). If the studio offers sauna, you'll typically start with a heat session. Infrared saunas run 130-150°F. Traditional Finnish saunas hit 180-200°F+. This pre-heating makes the cold plunge more tolerable and amplifies the contrast therapy benefits.

The plunge (2-5 minutes). Most studios recommend starting with 2-3 minutes. Water temperatures range from 37°F to 55°F depending on the facility. Controlled breathing is key — slow inhales through the nose, measured exhales through the mouth. Staff at places like RVIVL and Kove will guide you through this.

Recovery (5-10 minutes). After the plunge, you'll warm up naturally. Some people sit quietly, others do light stretching. Many studios encourage 2-4 rounds of hot-cold cycling in a single session.

Post-session. Shower, change, and enjoy the post-plunge high. The norepinephrine and dopamine boost typically lasts 2-4 hours. Most people report feeling alert, calm, and clear-headed.

Safety Considerations

Cold plunging is safe for most healthy adults, but it carries real risks for certain populations.

Who should avoid cold plunges:

• People with cardiovascular disease, particularly heart rhythm abnormalities (Harvard Health, 2025)
• Those with uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Pregnant women (consult your doctor first)
• Anyone with Raynaud's disease or cold urticaria
• People currently experiencing acute illness or fever

Universal safety tips:

• Never plunge alone — studios solve this problem by having staff present
• Start with warmer temperatures (50-55°F) and work down gradually
• Limit initial sessions to 1-2 minutes
• Exit immediately if you feel dizzy, disoriented, or experience chest pain
• Stay hydrated before and after your session

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Cold water immersion carries risks including cardiac arrhythmia, hypothermia, and cold shock response. Consult your physician before starting cold plunge therapy, especially if you have any cardiovascular conditions, are pregnant, or take medications that affect heart rate or blood pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a cold plunge studio session typically cost?

Prices vary dramatically by city and studio. In NYC, you can plunge for as little as $10 at Kove Studio or pay $150 at Schwet for a premium 2.5-hour experience. LA averages $45-$99 per session, with IcePass offering unlimited monthly access for $99. Chicago ranges from $39 (Contrast Hot + Cold community room) to $60 (Sweathouz single session). Monthly memberships across all three cities typically fall between $99 and $249, with premium tiers reaching $549 at high-end facilities like Therabody Reset.

What temperature are cold plunges at studios?

Most studios maintain their cold plunges between 37°F and 55°F. IcePass in LA holds 37-44°F, which is on the colder end. Schwet in NYC maintains 48°F. Some studios offer adjustable temperatures or multiple plunge pools at different temperatures for progressive cold exposure. Research suggests that water below 59°F (15°C) is sufficient to trigger the cold-shock response that produces most of the documented health benefits.

How long should I stay in a cold plunge at a studio?

For beginners, 1-3 minutes is sufficient. Experienced plungers typically stay 3-5 minutes per round, often cycling through 2-4 rounds alternating with sauna sessions. A 2025 clinical review found that immersion under 15 minutes produced the best recovery outcomes, with diminishing returns beyond that point. Studio staff can help you find the right duration based on your experience level and the water temperature.

Do I need to bring anything to a cold plunge studio?

Most studios provide towels, and some offer robes. You'll need to bring swimwear (board shorts or a swimsuit). Beyond that, bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and a change of dry clothes. Skip heavy meals within 2 hours before your session. Some studios like Sweathouz provide everything including a vitamin C shower, while more basic setups may require you to bring your own towel.

Is a cold plunge studio worth it compared to an ice bath at home?

Studios offer several advantages: commercial-grade filtration (cleaner water), precise temperature control (consistent experience), guided instruction (safer for beginners), and complementary services like saunas and breathwork. A quality home cold plunge tub costs $3,000-$10,000 upfront plus ongoing maintenance and electricity. At $99/month for unlimited studio access (IcePass) or even $25/session (Kove), studios can be more cost-effective unless you plan to plunge daily for years. Our studio vs. home comparison breaks down the full cost analysis.

Related Reading

• Cold Plunge Benefits: What Science Says — deep dive into the peer-reviewed research
• Cold Plunge + Sauna Contrast Therapy — how to maximize the hot-cold cycle
• How Cold Should a Cold Plunge Be? — temperature ranges and what they do to your body

-- The Cold Plunge Finder Team