faqs
getting started
watershed is a restorative communal bathing destination and full-service spa in Minneapolis, Minnesota. A watershed moment is a turning point, the exact moment that signifies change. watershed creates a space for this transformation by making opportunities for experiences that help reset, align and heal the body and mind.
We offer a six-step communal bathing ritual and a full menu of holistic spa services and integrative wellness treatments. To complement the experience, our retail area is stocked with a curated selection of body and skin products that restore natural balance, along with an adaptogen and herb section featuring products designed to support internal health.
The bathhouse experience is a two and a half hour reservation (booked separately from any other spa or wellness services) providing you full access to our hot soaking pool, cold plunge pool, steam room, cedar sauna, and meditation garden. Our space is self-guided, communal, and gender inclusive.
Before you arrive, here are a few things worth knowing:
The minimum age requirement to enter the bathhouse is 18.
You’ll need a swimsuit. (If you forget yours, we have suits for rent or for sale.)
For hygienic and security reasons, watershed-supplied slippers are available. Outside slippers or shoes are not permitted.
Bathing sessions are co-ed (unless otherwise stated).
We request that long hair be pulled back during your bathing ritual. (We have hair ties for your convenience.)
Use of the facilities is not allowed for pregnant people and not recommended for people with cardiovascular issues.
Your bath pass allows you to stay for two and a half hours in the bathhouse in addition to any spa services you may have booked.
Upon arrival, guests will receive a tour of the facilities, but you are free to move among the baths as you choose.
We recommend arriving 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to check in and change.
Bathhouse access is not included in service costs, and must be booked separately and in addition to any facials, massages, acupuncture or energy work services you enjoy at watershed.
All you need to bring is your swimsuit. We do have some available for rent or purchase should you forget yours. We provide towels, optional sandals, toiletries, tea, and water.
Guests wear a variety of bathing suits for their experience with us, based on what they consider most comfortable. A one-piece is a great option, but bikinis are also perfectly acceptable. Of course, all guests are welcome to wear shorts instead. Our goal is to ensure your bathing experience is comfortable so that you can benefit from the maximum amount of healing.
Please note that the bathhouse is reserved for those 18 and older,
and is not advised for pregnant guests.
planning your visit
You can find watershed in the historic Switch House building (formerly known as The Soap Factory), adjacent to the Mississippi River and Stone Arch Bridge in the St. Anthony Main neighborhood. Watershed Main is located at
Our beautiful location offers proximity to both the water—an essential part of the watershed spa experience—and many unique entertainment, dining, and specialty shops of Minneapolis’ Riverfront District.
Both locations are near paid surface lots, ramps, street parking, and public transportation. We are working on parking options for guests at both locations, including valet services (coming soon).
watershed is nearly doubling the size of its original flagship location at , and is opening a new spa in the North Loop at . Both locations are in Minneapolis. This expansion will better serve our growing community and provide more opportunities for wellness and thermal bathing.
watershed kindly asks for 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Out of respect for our staff and fellow guests, appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice as well as no-shows will incur a charge of 100% of the reserved service cost. Pre-selected gratuities are not included in this charge.
bathing and wellness
As the first communal bath and spa destination in the Twin Cities, we believe that every human deserves healing.
Being in community to experience the timeless traditions of the bathing ritual is powerful. That hot-cold components promote relaxation, detoxification, and overall physical and psychological wellness has been known for centuries (in fact, the first known bathhouse dates back to 2500 B.C.).
Throughout history and across numerous traditions, communal bathing has helped individuals reset the mind and body.
Absolutely not! And no need to worry—first timers will be guided through the facility and briefed on the rituals of communal bathing by a staff member.
Our pools are maintained daily by a professional pool services company and meet all Minneapolis and Minnesota safety standards. We use UV filtration systems in addition to chlorination, which allows us to keep chlorine levels lower while maintaining clean, balanced water.
membership
We offer two membership tiers for those who want to make watershed a regular part of their life, with special access to member-only booking and other perks.
Learn more and find the tier that fits your life on our membership page.
Yes. A watershed membership at either the Shed Light or Be Light level gives you access to both locations.
spa services and products
Bathhouse access is not included in service costs, and must be booked separately and in addition to any facials, massages, acupuncture or energy work services you enjoy at watershed.
Massage
Cupping
Skincare
Acupuncture
Integrative Healing Modalities
Vibrational Sound Healing
Intuitive services
Hypnotherapy sessions
More coming soon!
Yes, watershed brought their cult favorites from the Spot Spa Retail selection and added a curated section of body and skin products that restore natural balance. We are building our internal adaptogen and herb section to be curated to support internal health as well.
events
Yes! Bring your community together for a private gathering at watershed, including full access to the baths and lounge areas, and an optional guided meditation. Up to 30 guests can join.
Normally, prices range from $2300 to $3000, depending on the number of people in your party. Please email [email protected] for additional information.
space expansion
No, we plan to construct during off-peak hours to minimize disruption, though this may extend our overall timeline.
Our current target for launch is summer 2026, but the construction process may take longer. There are some challenges, as it is a historically designated building, so it’s hard to have an exact timeline. We hope to have both locations fully operational by mid-2026.
The new location is in the North Loop neighborhood, in the former Bev's Wine Bar space at , not far from the Twins Stadium and the Hewing Hotel.
Communal space for the bathing ritual
Multi-use spa treatment rooms
A unique tatami-style room for herbal baths
A tranquil meditation area with garden views
We are hoping to open the doors of the north loop location in summer 2026.
Please join our email list as well as follow @watershedmpls on all social channels.
We have been overjoyed by the positive reception Watershed has experienced, and regularly receive requests to open new spas in a variety of locations in the Twin Cities and around the country. We are open to exploring possibilities.
still have questions?
If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us