What started as a steamy escape in a Toronto garage during the pandemic eventually went on to become a social shvitz, attracting a cult following, and it recently made its New York City debut. Othership, one of Canada’s most frequented bathhouses, has officially found a home in Flatiron.
Othership began in the midst of the Covid pandemic when founder Robbie Bent’s three-car garage-turned-sauna, ice bath, and tea lounge began to attract the interest of others. Bent and his four co-founders eventually expanded the concept into a Toronto-based brick and mortar in 2022, with a second location opening late 2023. And as of this past July they’ve added an NYC location to their roster!
The 7,000-square-foot+ Flatiron location includes a sauna fit for 90 people (one of the largest saunas in North America), a circular tea room complete with a fireplace, and “the coldest commercial ice baths in the United States.” What the space doesn’t include, however, is food and alcohol.
Back in March Amanda Laine, Othership lead facilitator and co-founder, had stated:
People are tired of going to a bar or restaurant in order to have a social night out; there needs to be a better way. People want to reconnect with themselves, relax, drop their guard and feel safe. Othership is a way to socialize without the distractions of technology and reap the health benefits of these practices along the way.
The bathhouse aims to create transformation, and they do so in a number of ways including:
- Powerful techniques – visualization, vocalization, breath work, and more
- Immersive music – music-driven sessions to guide you into the present moment
- Expert guides – support from experienced guides
- Essential oils – signature essential oil blends to awaken your senses
Plus, Othership also offers a number of instructor-led group classes inside their sauna–which involve breath work, setting intentions, and, naturally, some sweat–before then cooling off with a cold plunge alongside your class companions! Everything you need to know prior to your first journey can be explored in the video below:
Prices vary depending on what you’re interested in: class costs begin at $64 for drop-in sessions and cost as much as $3,600 for a pack of 100. Membership options start at $51 per month and first timer packs begin at $135. The best part: joining in on the fun is as easy as booking a class right online.
Othership plans to eventually open a second location in Williamsburg as well in early 2026.
📍 23 W. 20th Street, Flatiron