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Repeat. Whether it’s a rejuvenating stay at the Urban Cowboy Lodge or a rustic escape at Scribner’s Lodge, these destinations offer the chance to experience the best of what the Hudson Valley has to offer—without sacrificing privacy or comfort.
Embracing a New Wellness Era
The move from public spaces to private wellness experiences reflects a broader cultural shift in how we view LGBTQ+ sexuality and community.
By focusing on private, bespoke experiences, Alluvion Vacations curates wellness getaways that honor both the desire for connection and the need for personal space. However, the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the 1980s profoundly affected these establishments, as many were accused of contributing to the spread of the virus. However, in recent years, the landscape of these iconic venues has shifted dramatically, with many closing their doors due to changing cultural norms, the impact of the HIV/AIDS crisis, and the rise of dating apps like Grindr and Scruff.
The Evolution of Gay Saunas: From Urban Bathhouses to Private Wellness Retreats in New York’s Hudson Valley and Catskills – LGBTQ+ Travel with Maxwell Alexander – Wellness Travel
But while traditional gay saunas may be disappearing, new wellness experiences are emerging—moving beyond the urban centers and flourishing in upstate New York.
As public expressions of sexuality are increasingly sanitized or pushed into virtual spaces, private retreats are stepping up to fill the void. Mark’s Baths, which not only offered discreet encounters but also vibrant social and cultural experiences. Sitting in a sauna can push your limits. These experiences allow guests to explore their sexuality, friendships, and overall well-being in a judgment-free environment—making it an ideal option for those who miss the communal aspect of traditional bathhouses but want something more intimate and modern.
Private, Elevated Wellness Experiences
Although the era of public gay saunas may be fading, today’s LGBTQ+ travelers have a wealth of private, elevated options for exploring and embracing their wellness and sexuality.
You can do hard things.
6. Work yourself up to three minutes or more in the cold plunge.
How to Sauna
1. Wade into the neutral pool to bring your body temperature back up slowly.
7. Spas, on the other hand, typically only offer private treatment rooms where guests receive individual services, which tend to be isolating.
Although bathhouses usually provide treatments like massage and body scrubs in addition to shared pool and sauna amenities, spas rarely have communal areas.