By Andrew Collins. Given that Toronto has the largest gay scene of any city in Canada and that bathhouse culture enjoys nearly the same mainstream acceptance and popularity here as it does in western Europe, it's hardly surprising that Toronto has a rather robust selection of gay spas and sex clubs.
Before you go, though, there are a few things you show know about each club and social etiquette. It's important to follow safe sex rules, individual club and bathhouse regulations, and get consent from any potential partner when you visit any sex-positive environment, especially in the city. Open 24 hours a day and seven days a week, Steamworks Toronto Church Street is part of a renowned international bathhouse brand with other locations in Berkeley just outside San Francisco , Seattle , Vancouver , and Chicago.
This centrally-located gay bathhouse is a must among fans of gay saunas. As far as the scene goes, Steamworks can get downright packed and quite steamy on weekends, especially after the bars and clubs along Church Street close. With extensive, well-kept facilities including a gym, all sorts of interesting private room options, douche stations, glory holes, and other public areas, a eucalyptus steam room, and live DJs on weekends, Steamworks is an undisputed favorite in the city.
While in the vicinity, you can visit the biggest of Toronto's gay bathhouses, Spa Excess Carlton Street , which provides stiff competition to Steamworks. Also open around the clock, this rambling, dark, and sexy club has attractively tiled showers and wet areas, clean facilities, and a diverse mix of guys of all ages, ethnicities, and styles. Modeled after fancier European spas, some say the vibe here is a bit less stand-and-model than at Steamworks, but results really vary at these venues from night to night.
Still, the crowd at Spa Excess is usually more relaxed and welcoming; plus, there's a fully licensed bar, which means you'll be able to drink while you play or offer a cute guy a drink to flirt with him. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, especially toward genderbending people and trans women, Club isn't always a sex club.
