Best Places to Stay In Chicago for Families: A Comprehensive Guide

by | Sep 28, 2023 | Destinations

Chicago is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of attractions and activities for families. From world-class museums to beautiful parks, there is something for everyone. However, choosing the right place to stay can be overwhelming, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the city. In this article, we will explore the best places to stay in Chicago for families.

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Chicago, families have a lot of options. Some of the most popular areas include the Magnificent Mile, River North, and Lincoln Park. These neighborhoods offer easy access to top attractions, restaurants, and shopping. Additionally, they are safe and family-friendly, making them ideal for those traveling with children.

Whether you are looking for a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly option, there is something for every family in Chicago. In the following sections, we will take a closer look at some of the best places to stay in the city, as well as the top family-friendly attractions and activities.

Why Choose Chicago?

Chicago, also known as the Windy City, is a vibrant and diverse city located in the heart of the Midwest. It is a city that is rich in culture, arts, music, and history, making it an ideal destination for families looking for a unique and memorable vacation experience.

One of the main reasons to choose Chicago as a family vacation destination is its world-renowned museums and cultural institutions. The city is home to some of the best museums in the world, including the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum, and the Museum of Science and Industry. These museums offer a range of exhibits and interactive experiences that are sure to engage and inspire visitors of all ages.

In addition to its museums, Chicago is also known for its thriving arts and music scenes. The city is home to numerous theaters, concert venues, and art galleries, offering families the opportunity to experience a wide range of performances and exhibitions. From Broadway shows to local theater productions, there is something for everyone in Chicago's vibrant arts scene.

Another reason to choose Chicago as a family vacation destination is its proximity to Chicagoland, a region that encompasses the city and its surrounding suburbs. Chicagoland offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and water sports, as well as numerous parks and nature preserves. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some time in nature with the whole family.

Overall, Chicago is a city that offers something for everyone. Its rich culture, arts, music, and history, combined with its proximity to the great outdoors, make it an ideal destination for families looking for a unique and memorable vacation experience.

Family-Friendly Neighborhoods

Chicago is a great city for families, with plenty of neighborhoods that offer a safe and welcoming environment for parents and kids alike. Here are some of the best family-friendly neighborhoods to consider when planning your trip to Chicago.

River North

Located just north of the Loop, River North is a vibrant neighborhood that offers plenty of attractions for families. It's home to some of the city's best restaurants, as well as a number of art galleries and museums. Families can also enjoy the Riverwalk, a scenic path along the Chicago River that offers stunning views of the city skyline.

The Loop

Downtown Chicago's Loop neighborhood is a great place for families to stay, with easy access to many of the city's top attractions. Families can take a stroll through Millennium Park, which features the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, or catch a show at one of the many theaters in the area. The Loop is also home to a number of family-friendly hotels and restaurants.

West Loop

West Loop is another great neighborhood for families, with a wide range of restaurants and shops to explore. Families can take a stroll through Mary Bartelme Park, which features a large playground and plenty of space for kids to run around. The area is also home to a number of family-friendly hotels, making it a convenient place to stay.

South Loop

Located just south of the Loop, the South Loop is a diverse neighborhood that offers plenty of attractions for families. Families can take a trip to the Field Museum, which features a wide range of exhibits on natural history and science, or explore the Adler Planetarium, which offers stunning views of the night sky. The area is also home to a number of family-friendly hotels and restaurants.

Streeterville

Located just east of the Magnificent Mile, Streeterville is a bustling neighborhood that offers plenty of attractions for families. Families can take a trip to Navy Pier, which features a wide range of rides and attractions, or explore the Chicago Children's Museum, which offers hands-on exhibits for kids of all ages. The area is also home to a number of family-friendly hotels and restaurants.

Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is a historic neighborhood that offers plenty of attractions for families. Families can take a stroll through Lincoln Park, which features a zoo and plenty of green space, or explore the Museum of Contemporary Art, which features a wide range of exhibits on modern art. The area is also home to a number of family-friendly hotels and restaurants.

Wicker Park

Wicker Park is a trendy neighborhood that offers plenty of attractions for families. Families can take a stroll through the park, which features a large playground and plenty of space for kids to run around. The area is also home to a number of family-friendly hotels and restaurants.

When choosing a family-friendly neighborhood in Chicago, safety is always a top concern. Fortunately, all of the neighborhoods listed above are generally considered safe for families, with low crime rates and plenty of amenities to keep parents and kids entertained.

Best Hotels for Families

When it comes to finding the best hotels for families in Chicago, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations or kid-friendly hotels with family packages, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the top picks for family-friendly hotels in Chicago:

Hilton Chicago

The Hilton Chicago is a great choice for families looking for a luxury hotel with plenty of amenities. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, this hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, as well as a fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site dining options. Families can also take advantage of the hotel's kid-friendly activities, including a scavenger hunt and movie nights.

Swissotel Chicago

The Swissotel Chicago is another great option for families. This hotel offers a variety of family-friendly amenities, including a kids' club, indoor pool, and on-site dining options. The hotel also offers family packages that include discounted rates on rooms and meals.

Embassy Suites

The Embassy Suites is a popular choice for families due to its spacious two-room suites and complimentary breakfast. This hotel also offers a fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site dining options. Families can also take advantage of the hotel's family package, which includes discounted rates on rooms and meals.

Loews Chicago

The Loews Chicago is a luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown Chicago. This hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, as well as a fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site dining options. Families can also take advantage of the hotel's kid-friendly amenities, including a kids' club and on-site babysitting services.

The Blackstone Hotel

The Blackstone Hotel is a historic hotel located in the heart of downtown Chicago. This hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, as well as a fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site dining options. Families can also take advantage of the hotel's kid-friendly amenities, including a kids' club and on-site babysitting services.

Intercontinental Chicago

The Intercontinental Chicago is a luxury hotel located on Michigan Avenue. This hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, as well as a fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site dining options. Families can also take advantage of the hotel's kid-friendly amenities, including a kids' club and on-site babysitting services.

Four Seasons Hotel

The Four Seasons Hotel is a luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown Chicago. This hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, as well as a fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site dining options. Families can also take advantage of the hotel's kid-friendly amenities, including a kids' club and on-site babysitting services.

Overall, there are plenty of great hotels in Chicago that are well-suited for families. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations or kid-friendly hotels with family packages, there is something for everyone.

Amenities to Look For

When searching for the best places to stay in Chicago for families, it's important to consider the amenities that will make the trip more enjoyable and convenient. Here are some amenities to look for when choosing a family-friendly hotel:

Pool

A pool is always a great amenity for families, especially during the summer months. Look for hotels with outdoor or indoor pools, depending on the time of year. Some hotels even have rooftop pools with stunning views of the city.

Breakfast

Finding a hotel that offers a complimentary breakfast can save families time and money. Look for hotels that offer a variety of breakfast options, including hot and cold items, to accommodate everyone's tastes.

Concierge

A helpful concierge can make all the difference in a family's trip. Look for hotels with knowledgeable and friendly staff who can provide recommendations for family-friendly activities, restaurants, and attractions.

Kid-Friendly Amenities

Some hotels go above and beyond to cater to families with children. Look for hotels that offer kid-friendly amenities such as children's menus, play areas, and even special activities or events.

Two-Room Suites

Families often need more space than a standard hotel room can provide. Look for hotels that offer two-room suites with separate sleeping areas for parents and children.

Kids Suite

Some hotels offer themed kids suites that are sure to delight young travelers. Look for hotels that offer suites with fun themes such as pirate ships or princess castles.

By considering these amenities, families can find the best places to stay in Chicago that will make their trip comfortable, convenient, and memorable.

Exploring Chicago Attractions

Chicago is a city that has something for everyone, including families with kids. From museums to parks, there are plenty of attractions to explore. Here are some of the top attractions in Chicago that families should consider visiting.

Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is a famous shopping district in Chicago that offers a wide range of shopping options for families. It is home to many high-end stores, as well as more affordable options. The Magnificent Mile is also a great place to explore during the holidays, as it is beautifully decorated with lights and decorations.

Grant Park

Grant Park is a large park in downtown Chicago that offers a variety of activities for families. It is home to several museums, including the Field Museum and the Adler Planetarium. It is also a great place to have a picnic, go for a walk, or attend a concert or festival.

Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a popular park in downtown Chicago that is home to several iconic attractions, including the famous "Bean" sculpture. Families can take a picture with the Bean, explore the Lurie Garden, or attend a free concert or movie screening.

Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a popular tourist attraction in Chicago that offers a variety of activities for families. It is home to several restaurants, shops, and attractions, including the Chicago Children's Museum and the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel. Families can also take a boat tour or watch a fireworks show.

Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan is a beautiful body of water that borders Chicago. Families can take a walk along the lakefront, go for a swim, or rent a kayak or paddleboard. There are also several beaches along the lakefront that are perfect for families.

Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo is a free zoo located in Lincoln Park. It is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. Families can also attend a free concert or movie screening at the zoo during the summer months.

Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is a world-renowned art museum that offers a variety of exhibits and programs for families. It is home to several famous works of art, including Grant Wood's "American Gothic" and Georges Seurat's "A Sunday on La Grande Jatte". Families can also participate in family-friendly art-making activities.

Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium is a popular aquarium located in downtown Chicago. It is home to a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles. Families can also attend a variety of animal encounters and shows.

Field Museum

The Field Museum is a natural history museum located in Grant Park. It is home to several famous exhibits, including Sue the T. rex and the Ancient Egypt exhibit. Families can also participate in family-friendly activities, such as scavenger hunts and fossil digs.

Adler Planetarium

The Adler Planetarium is a popular museum located in Grant Park that is dedicated to astronomy and space exploration. Families can explore the exhibits, attend a planetarium show, or participate in a family-friendly activity.

Lincoln Park Conservatory

The Lincoln Park Conservatory is a free conservatory located in Lincoln Park. It is home to a variety of plants and flowers, including orchids and ferns. Families can also attend a variety of family-friendly events and activities.

Chicago offers a wide range of attractions for families to explore. Whether it's shopping on the Magnificent Mile, exploring the museums in Grant Park, or visiting the animals at Lincoln Park Zoo, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Food and Dining

Chicago is widely known for its diverse and delicious food scene. From deep-dish pizza to hot dogs, there is something for everyone. Families visiting Chicago will not be disappointed with the variety of restaurants and eateries available.

One of the must-visit places for foodies is the French Market. Located in the West Loop, this indoor market offers a wide variety of food options, from fresh seafood to gourmet sandwiches. Families can enjoy a meal together while exploring the market's unique atmosphere.

For those looking for a happy hour spot, there are plenty of bars and restaurants in Chicago that offer drink and food specials. River North is a popular area for happy hour, with many bars and restaurants offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

Chicago is also home to many family-friendly restaurants. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is a popular spot for families to enjoy some of the city's famous deep-dish pizza. The restaurant offers a kids menu and a welcoming atmosphere for families.

Overall, Chicago's food and dining scene is diverse and exciting, offering something for everyone. Families can enjoy a meal together at one of the many family-friendly restaurants or explore the city's unique food markets.

Shopping in Chicago

Chicago is a shopper's paradise with a wide range of shopping options to suit every taste and budget. The city is home to many shopping centers, boutiques, and department stores that offer unique shopping experiences for families.

One of the most popular shopping destinations in Chicago is the Magnificent Mile, a stretch of Michigan Avenue that is lined with high-end stores, luxury boutiques, and department stores. It is a shopper's paradise and offers an unmatched shopping experience. Families can find everything from designer clothes to luxury jewelry and accessories in this area.

Apart from the Magnificent Mile, there are many other shopping areas in Chicago that offer unique shopping experiences. Families can explore the city's many boutiques and specialty stores that offer unique and one-of-a-kind items.

For those looking for a more traditional shopping experience, there are many shopping centers and malls in Chicago that offer a wide range of stores and brands. The Water Tower Place, for example, is a shopping center that houses more than 100 stores, including popular brands like Macy's, American Eagle, and Victoria's Secret.

Overall, Chicago is a great destination for families who love to shop. With its mix of high-end stores, boutiques, and shopping centers, there is something for everyone.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Chicago is known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, making it a great destination for families looking for a fun-filled vacation. From jazz music to nightclubs, there's something for everyone in the Windy City.

For families with older children, a night out at one of Chicago's many jazz clubs is a must. The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, located in the Uptown neighborhood, is a popular spot for live jazz music and has been a Chicago institution since the early 1900s. Another great option is Andy's Jazz Club in River North, which features live music every night of the week.

For those looking for a more upbeat nightlife experience, Chicago has plenty of nightclubs to choose from. The Underground, located in River North, is a popular spot for dancing and features top DJs from around the world. Studio Paris Nightclub, located in the Gold Coast neighborhood, is another popular spot for dancing and features a rooftop patio with stunning views of the city.

When it comes to entertainment, families can't go wrong with a trip to Navy Pier. This iconic Chicago landmark features a variety of attractions, including the Chicago Children's Museum, a Ferris wheel, and an IMAX theater. For a more low-key evening, families can catch a movie at one of Chicago's many theaters, such as the AMC River East 21 in River North or the Music Box Theatre in Lakeview.

Overall, Chicago offers a wide array of entertainment and nightlife options for families looking to have a good time.

Safety Tips

Chicago is a large city with a high crime rate, so it's essential to take precautions to ensure that you and your family stay safe during your stay. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity, and avoid walking alone at night in areas that are known to be dangerous.
  • Use public transportation: Chicago has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains, which is a safe and affordable way to get around the city.
  • Stay in a safe neighborhood: Some of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago for families include Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and the Loop. These areas are well-lit and have a lot of foot traffic, making them less likely to be targeted by criminals.
  • Keep your valuables safe: Don't carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive jewelry, and keep your wallet or purse close to your body.
  • Be cautious when using ATMs: Use ATMs located inside banks or other secure locations, and avoid using them at night or in isolated areas.
  • Know how to contact the police: In case of an emergency, dial 911. You can also download the Chicago Police Department's mobile app to report non-emergency incidents.

By following these safety tips, you can help ensure that your family has a safe and enjoyable trip to Chicago.

Visa and ESTA Information

Traveling to the United States requires obtaining the appropriate documentation, including a visa or ESTA authorization. It is essential for families planning a trip to Chicago to understand the requirements for entry into the country.

ESTA Authorization

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system that determines a traveler's eligibility to enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. Citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program can apply for ESTA authorization online before their trip. ESTA authorization is valid for two years or until the traveler's passport expires, whichever comes first.

It is important to note that ESTA authorization does not guarantee entry into the United States. Customs and Border Protection officials have the final say on whether a traveler is allowed to enter the country.

Visa Requirements

Citizens of countries not participating in the Visa Waiver Program must obtain a visa to enter the United States. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of the trip. Families planning a vacation in Chicago will likely need a B-2 tourist visa.

The visa application process can be lengthy, so it is recommended to apply well in advance of the planned trip. Applicants must provide documentation such as a valid passport, proof of financial support, and evidence of ties to their home country.

Traveling with Children

Parents or guardians traveling with children should be aware that each child must have their own ESTA authorization or visa, even if they are traveling on a parent's passport. Additionally, all children under the age of 18 must have a consent letter from their parent or guardian if traveling without both parents.

Conclusion

Understanding the visa and ESTA requirements is essential for families planning a trip to Chicago. By obtaining the appropriate documentation and following all necessary procedures, families can ensure a smooth entry into the United States.

Alternative Accommodation Options

When traveling with a family, alternative accommodation options can be a great way to save money and have more space. Here are some options to consider:

Hostels

Hostels are a popular option for budget-conscious travelers. They offer shared dormitory-style rooms as well as private rooms. Many hostels also have communal kitchens and common areas, making it easy to meet other travelers. Here are some family-friendly hostels in Chicago:

Airbnb

Airbnb is another popular option for families. It allows travelers to rent out someone's home or apartment for their stay. This can be a great option for families who want more space or a kitchen to cook in.

When booking alternative accommodation options, it's important to read reviews and check the location to make sure it's safe and convenient for your family.