If you and your family are looking for lodging in Chicago, Illinois, here are some of the top kid-welcoming hotels to crash in style in the Windy City. Note that Chicago is the Midwest’s financial hub, and hotels are substantially cheaper over weekend nights than during the week. If you have trouble deciding whether you’d rather be north of the river (closer to shops, Wrigley Field and Oak Park for Frank Lloyd Wright fans); or near the Chicago River or south of it (closer to the Navy Pier, Millennium Park, Art Institute and other attractions), check out the tips from Choose Chicago, the city’s very helpful tourist office. And there are so many attractions, be sure to pick up a CityPASS ticket booklet for the best values.
Loews Hotel Chicago
455 North Park Drive
Chicago, Il 60611
312/840-6600; 844/204-5639
Like its sister boutique style hotels in the Loews chain, the Loews Chicago has kid welcoming and pet welcoming amenities that make all guests feel comfortable. Located downtown just north of the Chicago River, in an area undergoing rapid development, it’s a classy choice for families — especially those with older kids who will enjoy the 15-minute walk to Navy Pier or Millennium Park. Although kids under 16 have to be accompanied by an adult, the 3rd floor fitness center and 75-foot lap pool are way above average. Rooms are luxurious and spacious, restaurants are very good and the new cafe has developed a tapas small plates menu that makes dining in or on the very trendy outdoor terrace a fun night out.
Swissotel Chicago
323 East Upper Wacker Drive
Chicago, Il 60601-9722
312/565-0565; 800/637-9477
The Swissotel Chicago is on the south shore of the Chicago River, a few blocks from the very central Michigan Avenue and a 10-minute walk to the Green Line El, ideal for sightseeing. You won’t have to brave the cold of winter as the hotel is built atop Chicago Ped, a commercial, undergound pedestrian mall with shops and restaurants that leads right into the Illinois Center. Upstairs, the towering 42nd floor fitness facilities include a lap pool open to families with adult supervision; plus a hot tub and a sauna for ages 17+. We love the “vitality” and wellness vibe of this hotel which has guided jogs with staff 2 mornings per week, and loans of fitness equipment to guest rooms. They make travel with a large family more affordable by offering adjoining rooms for kids at half price. Swissotel has nice rooms with both a tub and a shower, a minimart in the lobby, and two very good restaurants. Another big perk: kids under 12 receive 50% off dishes on the regular menu and kids under 5 eat free. For a splurge, the Swissotel Chicago Kids Suite features age appropriate toys, books, games, an in-room movie and daily breakfast buffet for four.
A Video Showdown between the Loews and the Swissotel
Embassy Suites Hotel Chicago-Downtown
600 North State Street
Chicago, Il 60654
312/943-3800
This place has all the great features of the Embassy Suites brand (one of 3 Embassy Suites in the city.) It’s well located near the Loews, a few blocks off the Maginificent Mile Michigan Avenue shopping stretch and not far from trendy bars and restaurants. The all-suites hotel gives everyone a little breathing room and kids 18-years-old and under stay free on a sofabed in their parent’s suite. The accommodations are clean, spacious and modern. Relax in the 11-story atrium with its soothing waterfall, visit the health club or enjoy the indoor pool and whirlpool after a long shopping day. Enjoy free cooked-to-order breakfast and evening drinks at the nightly Manager’s Reception, which are great perks. The attentive staff makes you want to extend your stay.
Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown
33 West Illinois
Chicago, IL 60654
312/832-0330
Located in the River North neighborhood, the hotel has 230 rooms in the heart of shops and restaurants near Michigan and State Streets, and a reasonable price. The Hampton offers free hot breakfast, WiFi, use of the fitness center as well as an indoor pool. With so many Hilton brand specials, be sure to check their site to see which one has the best deal.
More Helpful Contact Information
We don’t need to tell anyone about Airbnb.com but many visitors are surprised to see the city has a long history of home sharing. Here are some services you’ll find helpful if a big hotel is not your family’s thing.
At Home Inn Chicago
312/640-1050
Bed & Breakfast Association
Call specific inns for room information
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
