The University Club of Boston

Overview

The University Club of Boston is a historic private social and athletic club founded in 1891, renowned as Boston’s premier destination for elite training, recreation, and community. While not exclusively a sauna business, it features a dry sauna as a key component of its state-of-the-art aquatics facility, alongside a hot tub, cold plunge, and 25-yard saline multi-use pool. The club blends traditional elegance with modern athletic amenities, offering members, families, and guests a warm, inviting atmosphere centered on camaraderie, wellness, and excellence. With a focus on lifelong wellness, elite training, and social connections, it provides an unmatched experience combining physical pursuits, dining, and events in a vibrant, member-driven community.

Features & Amenities

• Aquatics Center: 25-yard private saline multi-use pool, hot tub, dry sauna, cold plunge—ideal for swimming, relaxation, recovery, and family programs.
• Squash Facilities: Six international singles courts and two doubles courts, Pro Shop, tournaments, junior camps, and lessons for all levels.
• Fitness & Wellness Center: Full-service gym with cardio, weights, functional training, group classes (yoga, spin), personal training, massage, and physical therapy.
• Dining & Social Spaces: Elegant dining rooms with daily specials, craft drinks; areas for bridge, workshops, private events.
• Clubhouse: Historic interiors at 426 Stuart Street, including lounges, hallways, and updated facilities post-renovations.
• Additional Perks: Reciprocal privileges at US, Canadian, and international clubs; scholarship fund; no on-site guest rooms but nearby hotel discounts.

Services

• Athletic Programs:
  • Squash instruction, competitive play, and community events led by Squash Director Chris Spahr.
  • Aquatics: Swim lessons, Masters swimming, family programs, year-round events under Aquatics Director Chris Veilleux.
  • Fitness: Group classes 7 days/week, personal training, wellness services by Fitness Director Kelly Healy and team.
• Dining & Beverages: Daily specials, seasonal events, private dinners from Executive Chef Jason Banusiewicz.
• Social & Events: Bridge classes, flower arranging, custom events, catering via Catering Manager Bethany Colleran.
• Membership Services: Inquiries, reciprocity access, employment opportunities; team-led by General Manager Neal Vohr.
• Professional Support: Expert trainers, staff for all departments (aquatics, fitness, F&B, operations).

Pricing

• Membership: Exclusive, invitation-based; requires sponsorship by a current member + two co-sponsors; candidates must be 21+ with university degree.
• No public pricing listed—contact via membership inquiry form for details on dues, initiation, or trial options.
• Scholarships: Up to $30K available since 1977 for education.
• Reciprocals & Events: Reduced rates at partner hotels/clubs; private event pricing on request.

Location & Hours

• Address: 426 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116 (historic clubhouse, originally from 270 Beacon St; renovated over past 20+ years).
• Contact: Phone: 617-266-5600, Email: info@uclub.org.
• Parking: Guest parking at nearby 100 Clarendon Garage.
• Operating Hours: Not specified on site; athletic classes 7 days/week—verify via membership or team contact.

Notes

• What Makes It Special: Over 130 years of history surviving Depression/WWII, now thriving with modern upgrades; private, reciprocal network spans US/Canada/International for travelers; emphasis on community & heart—hires for character, fosters team culture; unique blend of athletics (sauna-integrated recovery), social dining, and traditions like scholarships (150+ granted); members-only exclusivity ensures welcoming, high-caliber vibe; no public access, but ideal for professionals seeking wellness hub with sauna, plunge, and pool in elegant Boston setting.