The Shvitz is a Jewish tradition in Cleveland that has been discovered by guys of all stripes. It's great.
Years ago they had a ladies night once a week, but in this day and age no woman would step inside. The place has been there forever and looks it. I understand that now days you get a lock to use that is private. It used to be that one communal key opened all the locks on the lockers. They also have an armed guard in the parking lot and plenty of cops as customers.
My routine was to take a shvitz and a playtzeh in the steam room. (It is NOT a sauna -- it is very wet heat). When I came out I avoided the pool of ice water because I think it's the same water my grandfather dipped in - talk about a gene pool! That water hasn't been changed since Bentske yorn.
After a shower, I retire to the cots wrapped in a sheet in the darkened locker room. My buddies and I all grab a beer - Cincy cream ale is best - and kibitz on the cots in hushed tones for a while. Some may catch a few zzzz. It's also this time when a massage is a good idea.
After a nice rest, it's time to go into the kitchen for supper. A juicy rib steak served on a wood plank and covered in garlic. Add to that fresh rye bread with butter and a slice of pickled red pepper. You want salad? - you get a nice slice of onion. The appetizer is a slice of matjes herring - an acquired taste but one that I acquired as a small child.
Back in the days when Gay Solomon owned the Shvitz it always seemed to cost $28 no matter what I got. Don't forget to tip the Playtzeh or the masseur.
The Shvitz is hard to find but it's a great trip back in time to 1920 or so. Try it!