The Crew Club DC: Inside Washington's Last Gay Bathhouse And Its Dramatic Reopening
The Crew Club DC is more than just a men's spa; it is a long-standing institution and, critically, Washington D.C.’s last remaining gay bathhouse. As of the current date in late 2025, the club is fully operational, a remarkable feat given its tumultuous history that included an announced closure just a few years ago. This ultimate guide breaks down everything you need to know about the facility, from its location in the heart of the city's LGBTQ+ scene to its comprehensive array of amenities and current operational details.
The establishment has cemented its place in the District's social fabric, providing a private, 24-hour space for the GBT community. Its continued existence, after a period of uncertainty, serves as a testament to its importance in the Logan Circle neighborhood and the broader D.C. nightlife scene, offering a unique blend of fitness, relaxation, and social interaction.
Crew Club DC: Essential Profile and Operational Details
The Crew Club is a premier gay sauna and men's club that has served the Washington D.C. community for decades. While its history includes a period of announced closure, new partners stepped in to manage operations, ensuring the facility remains open and updated for its clientele.
- Official Name: The Crew Club DC
- Type: Men's Sauna and Bathhouse (often cited as DC's only gay bathhouse)
- Location: 1321 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
- Neighborhood: Logan Circle
- Contact: (202) 319-1333
- Operational Hours: Open 24 Hours, 7 Days a Week
- Peak Hours: Typically Friday and Saturday nights, between 10 PM and 3 AM
- Policy: Smoke, alcohol, and drug-free (a designated smoking area is provided)
Membership and Current Rates
Access to the Crew Club requires a one-time membership purchase, making it accessible for both locals and visitors to the District. This initial fee is often reported to be around $13, though rates can fluctuate, and it is advisable to check their official website for the latest pricing structure.
The club operates on a cash-only basis for the membership fee, so planning ahead is necessary before your visit. Once inside, guests can choose from various accommodation options, including day passes and private rooms.
The private rooms are categorized, with "Crew" and "Captain's" rooms being available for an additional fee, offering different levels of space and privacy. In a notable effort to engage the younger community, the club has previously offered free entry to guests aged 18 to 24 during special events.
A Deep Dive into the Amenities: More Than Just a Sauna
The Crew Club DC prides itself on offering a large, comprehensive set of facilities that go far beyond a simple steam room. The venue is designed to be a full-service men’s spa and health club, focusing on both wellness and social engagement. The commitment to cleanliness and a well-kept environment is a recurring positive theme in recent visitor reviews.
The Wellness and Relaxation Zones
The club offers a robust selection of traditional bathhouse features, ideal for unwinding after a long day or before a night out in Logan Circle. These amenities are meticulously maintained to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.
- Finnish Sauna: A classic dry heat experience for detoxification and relaxation.
- Maze Steam Room: A large, humidity-filled space designed for exploration and social cruising.
- Showers and Locker Rooms: Modern, clean locker facilities and large gang showers are available for guest use.
- Hydro-Massage: Guests can enjoy a complimentary hydro-massage session, a unique touch that adds to the luxurious feel of the club.
- Tanning Bed: Free tanning is an additional service, further positioning the club as a full-service men's spa.
Social and Entertainment Areas
Beyond the wet areas, the Crew Club features several spaces designed for socializing, relaxing, and entertainment. These areas are key to the club's function as a community hub.
- TV Lounge: A large, comfortable space where guests can relax and watch television.
- Video Room: A dedicated area for adult entertainment, often featuring 4-channel video for a diverse viewing experience.
- Private Cabins: The club features over 65 rooms, including the larger "Captain's" rooms and standard "Crew" rooms, all providing privacy and in-room entertainment access.
- Big Lounges: Multiple spacious lounge areas offer casual seating for relaxation and conversation.
The Survival Story: Closure, Reopening, and the Future of DC's Last Bathhouse
The history of the Crew Club is marked by a significant event that nearly saw the end of Washington D.C.'s bathhouse scene. In early 2020, the club's founders, DC Allen and Ken Flick, announced they had sold the building and the facility would close after 25 years of operation.
This news sent ripples through the D.C. LGBTQ+ community, as it meant the loss of a vital, dedicated space. However, in a surprising turn of events, the closure was averted. Allen and Flick found new "working partners" to manage the operations, allowing the Crew Club to stay open. The club subsequently held a reopening celebration, demonstrating its resilience and commitment to the community.
This dramatic survival story is what makes the Crew Club unique in the current climate. Its continued operation is a victory for the preservation of dedicated gay social spaces in the face of rising real estate costs and changing social trends.
The Crew Club's Place in Logan Circle Nightlife
The Crew Club is strategically located in the vibrant Logan Circle neighborhood, a historic and modern hub for Washington D.C.'s LGBTQ+ nightlife. Its presence enhances the area's reputation as a destination for the community.
The club is situated near several other popular gay venues, making it an integrated part of the evening scene. Visitors to the Crew Club often frequent other nearby establishments, including:
- Number Nine DC: A popular two-story lounge and video bar.
- The Little Gay Pub: A cozy, detail-oriented neighborhood bar.
- Trade: A sleek and stylish destination tucked away in the heart of Logan Circle.
The proximity of these venues creates a concentrated zone of social activity, from lively bars and lounges to the private, 24-hour retreat of the Crew Club. This synergy ensures that Logan Circle remains a central pillar of the District's diverse and active gay community.
The Crew Club DC remains a vital, if discreet, part of the city’s landscape. Its blend of traditional bathhouse services, modern gym facilities, and a powerful story of survival makes it a must-visit institution for anyone exploring the D.C. gay scene. Its status as the last remaining gay bathhouse underscores its importance as a dedicated space for connection and relaxation in the nation's capital.
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