ceej

I honestly can't say how busy it might be on a night like that, but I agree with @LookingAround, don't overthink this. You certainly won't see what you're going to see in SW on the street. On a Friday, the SW scene is probably more likely to pick up later at night, as people wrap up their nights. So have a drink or 2 at Lucky Horseshoe, stuff a few dollars in a dancer's jock, then head over to SW when you're ready. My guess is that any time before 10, you won't face too long of a line. But have a nap during the day and plan to stay a while if you go earlier in evening.

I definitely wouldn't call SW a men's spa, but you should absolutely check it out if you're curious. If you rent a room, it does lock, and you'll have the key on an elastic band you can wear on your wrist or ankle. Or you can get just a locker, and the same key situation applies. In addition, they have a lockbox system at the front desk when you check in, where you can store your valuables (wallet, watch, phone, etc), so you don't have to keep anything too valuable in your locker or room. Friday evening/night will definitely be busy. Although I haven't been in a number of years, you can be as voyeuristic or directly engaged in the action as you'd like. Don't be so sure no one will be interested...there's someone for everyone out there, especially on a busy night. If a guy is not interested, respect it, and move on. Others will do the same when you are not interested in them. It's the nature of the place. If you do want to do just watch/look, there's plenty of opportunity to do that in the common areas...wet area on the first floor, some common play areas on the other floors. If you do get a room, you won't want to just be sitting in there (although some guys will wait for action by sitting face up or down on the bed and living the door open. But you'll see more if you cruise around and can go back to the room if you find a match (or play in public). Feel free to message with questions, or ask publicly. My overall experience with SW is that it can be as much or as little as you want it to be.

Agreed, just start at the beginning. If in doubt, turn to Wikipedia for the order! The MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe) is divided into two "Sagas", Infinity and Multiverse, and then further into Phases. The Infinity Saga consists of Phases 1-3, and Multiverse Phase 4-6. The TV shows on Disney Plus kick in during Phase 4. You could probably skip The Incredible Hulk and not miss a beat. I'd probably say the same to Guardians of the Galaxy 2 and 3, but the first has enough relevant information to ground you in the characters for what's to come. After Phase 3 the movies start to wander a bit, although in theory a lot will come together at some point, but it's honestly hard to see the narrative links. For the most part, i've enjoyed the TV series in Phase 4, but I've had a hard time keeping up at this point in Phase 5. List of Marvel Cinematic Universe films - Wikipedia EN.WIKIPEDIA.ORG

I just finished 3 by J Ryan Stradal: Kitchens of the Great Midwest, The Lager Queen of Minnesota, and Saturday Night at the Lakeside Supper Club. All set in the midwest, centered around the food/beverage/restaurant industry, and all the life story/stories of generations of family. Good stories, nothing too bleak the characters face their share of struggle. The second was my favorite of the 3.

As far as I know, they're totally open, and have been since last year. I was there a few months ago and things were normal. Like I said above, Rich is my go to for a great massage. Marcus is also good, but only massages a few days a week because he also manages the place. No experience with, but I've heard good things about about Alex and Joe in terms of massage quality.

Same...I've heard a few people say that the massage from Gary is sub-par. Would be interested to hear if anyone has tried out the new guys Kevin or Joe.

He was partnered up with Brad, a former and, I think, well regarded Chicago guy (although I never saw him). Looks like they’re both back in Chicago. https://rentmasseur.com/BradsHands

It's not really my scene, but in the city, Teejay's Adult Book Store is probably your best bet if you're visiting the city.

It's not in a business area, per se. It's in the heart of the main gay neighborhood (Lakeview/Boystown). But it's not in the downtown biz district, or the nearby shopping/hotel districts just north. It's about 4 miles north of the business district. But still in a well populated, safe area (but again, use good judgment, especially very late. The neighborhood has had crime problems on and off but it is overall a safe place). Pretty much every place is in the place is popular. a little something for everyone. I think the "suck ramps" there a two areas with raised walkways, and a lower level that allow for a guy on the lower level to suck a guy on the upper. I've certainly seen that put to use. But no, I'd say the place will be much busier in the late evening (after 9) and weekends. A weekday, noon time visit might be craps shoot, but it won't be empty. but I've never been at that time.

Sauna is probably a stretch. Steamworks is a full blown bath house (and I mean that in the best possible way). There is a large wet area, including whirlpool, group showers, a sauna and larger steamroom with several nooks and benches (it's like a long hallway with little offshoot rooms), even a weight room. There's a second sauna an the third floor and showers on all floors. There's porn playing everywhere. Otherwise, there are rooms to rent (or just get a locker), mazes to walk around, glory holes, slings, benches...you name it. Overall, the place is large, clean, and safe (although use your head and store your valuables). I've only ever been in the evening, and the later you go, the bigger the crowd. But I have no doubt you could find a lunchtime crowd or after work crowd too. It's not a covert cruising spot like your neighborhood Russian Bath or anything. It's there for sex, or watching, or whatever you want in between. I'm sure my other Chicago brethren can chime in.

They're notoriously slow about updating the site, and could have a better social medial presence in my opinion. Wouldn't surprise if me the staff list is out of date already! I do need to get back in there soon.

Technically speaking, I think Rich is the best. Never had a bad massage with him. Marcus is also good (he's the manager and only gives massages occasionally though). I've heard good things about Alex, but never tried him. Antonio also has a pretty good following.

I think it's the same Alex. If you request a reservation on the site, the provider's full name is there. I've hear Alex gives a good massage, but never had him myself. Rich or Marcus are still my go to's for a quality massage.

I had hit Spunk at Pieces just before lockdown. Had one guy who definitely took advantage of the time (told him 1 or 2 dances, and he went over whatever I told him, and I think would have kept going if I hadn't looked back a the timer), and of course wanted payment for the extra (I did, but was aggravated). That wasn't the general experience though...all the other guys I got a private from stayed on the agreed count. All pre-Covid though, so I'm sure the guys have turned over somewhat. Just a reminder to peak at the clock...if it feels like you're going over, you probably are.

That seems like more of an anomaly on the quality side, for Sir. But sometimes the newer guys aren't as up to par. Rich, Marcus, and Antonio are all experienced and give quality massages. I've found you just have to experiment to find the right fit, quality wise there. In terms of looks, I'll be honest, the expectation there isn't that they're models. It's not the same sort of set up as the NYC type spas. The guys are all licensed, legit providers. My recommendation would be to give it another go, take some time to relax in the steam before or after, and you'll have a nice time.