Best Family Hotels in Chicago: 15 Picks (2026)
Deciding where to stay in Chicago with kids can be tricky. The Chicago Loop, Gold Coast, River North, and Wicker Park neighborhoods all offer great experiences in this ever-popular city. So where do you stay? Here are some of the best hotels in Chicago for families that will guarantee a fabulous vacation.
*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!
Where Should Families Stay in Chicago With Kids?
The best area for families staying in Chicago with kids is the Magnificent Mile and Streeterville corridor, where family friendly hotels in Chicago like Loews Chicago, Sable at Navy Pier, and Swissôtel put you within walking distance of Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and a string of kid-friendly restaurants. Navy Pier alone saw 8.3 million guests in 2025.
For more space, both Embassy Suites locations offer two-room family suites in downtown Chicago with free breakfast included. If luxury is the priority, the Four Seasons Chicago sets the standard, with museum passes, an indoor pool, and an on-staff ice cream man who delivers to your room.
Best Chicago Hotels for Families
1. Four Seasons Chicago
This hotel sets the standard when it comes to family-friendly Chicago hotels. Located within the 900 North Michigan shopping center, families can find everything they need at Four Seasons Chicago without leaving the building. Just steps from Michigan Avenue shops and restaurants, it is the perfect home base for exploring the Windy City.
If your family can manage to tear themselves away from the lake view and city view rooms, they will find a property made for families. With an on-staff ice cream man who delivers to your room, passes for local museums and Shedd Aquarium, and an indoor pool, your kids will never want to leave.
When you are ready to explore the streets of Chicago, the excellent Concierge team will make reservations and find you VIP tickets to the best attractions Chicago has to offer!
BOOK YOUR STAY AT FOUR SEASONS CHICAGO HERE
2. Embassy Suites
There are two Embassy Suites properties in downtown Chicago. The first one is Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown and the other is Embassy Suites Chicago Magnificent Mile. Structurally, both are the same, but there are a couple of reasons to choose each one.
Embassy Suites River North is your traditional property, with two-room suites, free breakfast, and complimentary evening happy hour. There’s an indoor swimming pool, and the location is a short walk to Michigan Avenue, Chicago Pizza, and other River North restaurants.
Embassy Suites Magnificent Mile is a AAA 4 Diamond property. It has a Sky Garden in its atrium where they grow fresh herbs to use in the food they prepare. The location is close to Navy Pier, an AMC movie theater, and a bowling alley.
We stayed at both properties during different spring breaks. We found the Downtown property was not as crowded and chaotic as the Magnificent Mile property but if you’re looking for a kid-friendly hotel, both are good choices, and each is in a great location.
3. The Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park
The Fairmont Chicago is blessed with an enviable location that is a 5-minute walk to both Michigan Avenue and Maggie Daley Park. The Art Institute of Chicago is just a bit further and the hotel has easy bus access to Museum Campus, where you’ll find the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium.
Rooms are quite spacious, and one-bedroom suites have king-size beds with a separate living area and sofa bed. Some have stunning views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan.
Families will love the property’s convenience to city attractions, their staff, on-site restaurant, fitness center, and proximity to family-friendly Chicago restaurants.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT FAIRMONT CHICAGO MILLENNIUM PARK HERE
4. The Blackstone Hotel
The king of experiences, The Blackstone Hotel has something for everyone. This incredible hotel with its central location deserves a place in the top hotels in Chicago.
Located on the southern end, known as the ‘cultural mile’ of Michigan Avenue, lake view rooms boast a view of Lake Michigan and Grant Park, and bathrooms of white marble and La Bottega amenities. Pillow-top king and queen beds make bedtime blissful.
Walking the corridors you will be walking in the footsteps of legends. Cards located around the hotel provide interesting insights into the famous faces who have stayed at the hotel, including several heads of state, Marilyn Monroe, and Al Capone.
The Blackstone, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, features an elegant mix of historic architecture and luxury design. It is both family and pet-friendly and has the perfect location for walking to Maggie Daley Park and Millennium Park (home of The Bean).
Maggie Daley offers a skating ribbon in winter, playgrounds, and climbing walls, as well as seasonal events. It’s the perfect location for families who want to explore and have downtime in the city.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT THE BLACKSTONE HERE
5. InterContinental Chicago
This world-renowned hotel brand can always be relied on for high standards and great service. InterContinental Chicago dates to 1929, and celebrates its history in its decor and architecture, winning it several awards, and the admiration of many famous faces.
Before you venture out into the Magnificent Mile, take a tour of the live-in masterpiece. Learn about the 12,000-pound crystal chandelier in the magnificent ballrooms, the terra-cotta fountains, and the hidden stained glass windows. Steeped in such history and glamour, you can see why this is one of the best hotels in Chicago.
The rooms have large windows that boast views of the Wrigley Clock Tower and the Tribune Tower. You must eat at the Michael Jordan Steak Bar, and be sure to indulge in its signature dish, a 23-layer chocolate cake. It is divine.
InterContinental Chicago has a fabulous location with plenty of restaurants, Navy Pier, Dylan’s Candy Bar, and the Nutella café nearby.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT THE INTERCONTINENTAL HERE
6. The Ritz-Carlton
Another well-known luxury hotel brand that prides itself on service and experience is the Ritz. The Ritz-Carlton in Chicago offers picture-perfect views of Lake Michigan and the city.
Attached to Water Tower Place, this hotel in the heart of the city is perfect for those looking for retail therapy. Stores such as LEGO, American Girl Place, and Sprinkles Cupcakes are just outside the hotel. If that’s not enough, the retail heaven that is Michigan Avenue is just outside.
For those looking to explore further afield, or need help planning their trip, the hotel offers plenty of insider knowledge of the local area, with suggested itineraries for those with different interests and tastes.
Making it the perfect family-friendly Chicago hotel, The Ritz Kids programming offers bathrobes and toiletries for kids, as well as a room set up with a tent, a stuffed animal, and an evening serving of milk and cookies. Parents won’t be disappointed in the impressive fitness center with incredible views of the city.
Each hotel restaurant offers a coloring book as well as healthy menus for the kids. Every guest will love the Ritz-Carlton.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT THE RITZ-CARLTON CHICAGO HERE
7. Loews Chicago
Loews Chicago is one of our favorite hotels in Chicago. From the moment kids walk in the door, they are treated like special guests. The hotel is located in the Streeterville neighborhood with good access to dining, Michigan Avenue, and Navy Pier.
Rooms are spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning city views. Kids will be mesmerized watching the cars below. The hotel motto is “Loews Loves Families”, and it shows. There’s a local activity guide, board games, baby bath amenities, and even gaming consoles for older kids.
Our favorite spot is the rooftop bar, Streeterville Social. During the summer, kids can be upstairs until just before dark and this area is full of family fun with games like corn hole, giant Jenga, and plenty of places to explore. It also has great views of Chicago and delicious cocktails too.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT LOEWS CHICAGO
8. Viceroy Chicago
Viceroy Chicago is located in the Gold Coast neighborhood, north of Navy Pier, but with easier access to the Lincoln Park Zoo (about 20 minutes walking from the Gold Coast) and the Chicago History Museum.
The property is known for its seasonal outdoor swimming pool (note there are limited hours because it’s a rooftop bar at night), fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms.
They have a V Team Kids program for families offering a neighborhood scavenger hunt, board games, curated picnics, and even a visit to the hotel’s community rooftop beehive with the hotel’s chef.
There are several suite options for families, including junior suites with terraces or one-bedroom lakeview suites. There’s an on-site restaurant, and plenty of shopping and food options nearby.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT VICEROY CHICAGO
9. Swissôtel
After a long day of travel with kids, Swissôtel is a dream place to stay on a family trip. Located just steps from Michigan Avenue, the property overlooks both Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.
Swissotel Chicago offers Kids’ Suites, where the kids can stay in a room right next door to the parents. These rooms include games, a play space, special amenities, and bathrobes for kids.
The offer also includes a complimentary in-room movie, a movie theater welcome amenity, and a complimentary breakfast for two adults and up to two children. This outstanding hotel is a great choice that will keep everyone in the family happy.
After a day of exploring, you will be happy to know you are returning to one of the most comfortable beds in the city.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT SWISSÔTEL CHICAGO
10. The Peninsula
The Peninsula ensures its guests have the best stay possible. Not only does it provide a welcome second home, but it also offers a wide range of experiences. It is one of the best luxury hotels in Chicago. Guests can make the most of their stay through its “Academy” programs.
From in-room tents to rooftop ice skating, The Peninsula pulls out all the stops. Guests can also enjoy a rejuvenating spa visit, enjoy a dip in the pool with breathtaking views, or relax on the sun terrace in the warmer months.
The location is perfect with Michigan Avenue on its doorstep. The Museum of Contemporary Art is close by, and it is easy to explore Water Tower shops as well.
The hotel caters to the entire family, offering toys, Camp Peninsula (with an in-room tent setup), and adjoining rooms. They even offer children’s high tea and spa treatments!
BOOK YOUR STAY AT THE PENINSULA CHICAGO HERE
11. LondonHouse
LondonHouse is one of our favorite locations in downtown Chicago, overlooking the Chicago River at the corner of Wacker Drive and Michigan Avenue. The property is within walking distance of Maggie Daley Park, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute.
Guest rooms in this historic building are spacious and comfortable. We had a corner room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the river. Suites are also available through connecting rooms.
Don’t miss the rooftop bar, LH on 22, with the most stunning views — it’s the perfect place to take in the Chicago skyline. Go up before it gets dark, so kids can have a look too.
12. The Langham
Staying at The Langham is an incomparably luxurious experience. Located along the Chicago River, the hotel is just steps from Michigan Avenue shopping as well as the gorgeous Millennium Park.
At the hotel, indulge in spa treatments, dine on upscale cuisine, or take part in special events like a Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea.
For kids, the hotel has fun offerings, including its current Paddington-themed playtime featuring Paddington-branded amenities like slippers, tents, robes, a bed runner, and welcome cookies.
If you’re looking for one of the best Chicago hotels for families that’s just a couple of minutes from so much to see in the city, you’ll find it all at The Langham.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT THE LANGHAM CHICAGO
13. The Gwen
The Gwen is part of The Luxury Collection offering an upscale stay in the heart of the Windy City. This hotel is located above The Shops at North Bridge, a shopping mall with everything from Nordstrom to Eataly. If you are visiting Chicago with teens, this is sure to be a hit.
Families might enjoy the comfort of a queen/queen room, but if you want to splurge, consider one of their terrace suites, or the hotel’s glamping experience which allows you to sleep under the stars in a luxury bell tent.
Amenities at this property include free bicycles to explore the city, a fitness center, and a variety of pre-order amenities to enhance your stay.
14. Renaissance Chicago
Located in the heart of Downtown, you can take in views of the gorgeous Chicago River and the expanse of the city from your spacious room at Renaissance Chicago. The proximity to shopping and the Chicago Theatre is enticing, and the hotel’s rooftop bar with its expertly crafted drinks is not to be missed.
The indoor heated pool is perfect for both parents and children and the fitness center is available to keep on track with fitness goals. Arrange a private tour through the hotel to see the city in a way that works best for your family.
The hotel also offers mixology classes as well as live entertainment — there’s little left to be desired at this upscale hotel in the Loop District.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT RENAISSANCE CHICAGO
15. Sable at Navy Pier, Curio Collection
If your kids dream about staying near the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier, this is the place to stay. Sable sits on Navy Pier, with sweeping views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline from every room.
Rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable beds. Families can choose connecting rooms if you need extra space. Kids will love watching the action on the pier and the lake, especially at night when everything lights up.
The Navy Pier Ferris wheel, restaurants, boat tours, and Chicago Children’s Museum are all at the hotel’s doorstep. In the summer, you can enjoy Lake Michigan fireworks from the rooftop bar.
If your family wants a convenient place for exploring Navy Pier, this hotel is one of the best places to book a trip to Chicago with kids.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT SABLE AT NAVY PIER
Best Chicago Neighborhoods for Families
Picking the right neighborhood is just as important as picking the right hotel. Chicago’s family-friendly hotels are spread across several distinct areas, and each one gives your trip a different feel.
- The Loop and Millennium Park area: The most central location for first-time visitors. Family hotels in Chicago’s Loop put you within walking distance of Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and Maggie Daley Park, which has a climbing wall, a skating ribbon in winter, and playgrounds. The Blackstone, The Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park, and Renaissance Chicago all sit here.
- Magnificent Mile and Streeterville: Michigan Avenue’s famous shopping strip runs through this corridor, along with Navy Pier, Dylan’s Candy Bar, and a string of casual restaurants. Downtown family hotels on the Mag Mile include the Four Seasons, InterContinental, Loews Chicago, and Swissôtel. This is the easiest neighborhood for families who want to walk everywhere.
- Gold Coast: A quieter, more residential feel than the Mag Mile, with faster access to Lincoln Park Zoo and the Chicago History Museum. Viceroy Chicago is the standout family-friendly option here.
- River North: Lively and restaurant-dense, with Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown a solid family suites option in Chicago for families who want space and a free hot breakfast without paying luxury prices.
Overview of Neighborhoods and Hotels
For most families visiting Chicago for the first time, the Magnificent Mile or the Loop area gives the best mix of walkability, attractions, and family hotel options.
| Hotel | Suite / Room Type | Family Perks | Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|---|
| Four Seasons Chicago | Lake view and city view rooms | Indoor pool, museum passes, in-room ice cream delivery | Magnificent Mile |
| Embassy Suites Downtown | Two-room suites (standard) | Free hot breakfast, indoor pool, evening happy hour | River North |
| Embassy Suites Magnificent Mile | Two-room suites (standard) | Free hot breakfast, Sky Garden atrium, AAA 4 Diamond | Magnificent Mile |
| Swissôtel Chicago | Kids’ Suites (adjoining) | Complimentary breakfast for 2 adults + 2 kids, in-room movie, bathrobes for kids | Magnificent Mile |
| The Fairmont Millennium Park | One-bedroom suites with sofa bed | Millennium Park views, easy Museum Campus bus access | The Loop |
| Viceroy Chicago | Junior suites with terraces or lakeview suites | V Team Kids program, rooftop pool (seasonal) | Gold Coast |
| The Peninsula Chicago | Adjoining rooms available | In-room tent, Camp Peninsula, children’s high tea | Magnificent Mile |
Family Suites in Chicago: Hotels With the Most Space
Families who need more than one room will find the best family suites in Chicago IL at these properties:
- Embassy Suites (both locations): Every room is a two-room suite with a separate living area, free hot breakfast, and evening happy hour. The best value family suites in downtown Chicago for families who want to stretch out without a luxury price tag.
- Swissôtel Kids’ Suites: The kids stay in a room right next door to the parents, with games, a play space, special amenities, and bathrobes for children. Includes a complimentary in-room movie and breakfast for two adults and up to two children.
- The Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park: One-bedroom suites with a king bed, separate living area, and sofa bed. Some look out over Millennium Park and Lake Michigan.
- Viceroy Chicago: Junior suites with terraces or one-bedroom lakeview suites, with the added bonus of the V Team Kids program.
- The Peninsula: Adjoining rooms plus in-room tent setup for kids make this one of the most thoughtful suite arrangements on the list.
If connecting rooms or a separate kids’ bedroom is the priority, Embassy Suites and Swissôtel are the most reliable choices for family suites in Chicago.
Key Takeaways
- Magnificent Mile and Loop: best neighborhoods for family hotels
- Four Seasons Chicago: top full-service pick for families
- Embassy Suites: best-value family suites with free breakfast
- Swissôtel Kids’ Suites: kids sleep next door with games and bathrobes
- Maggie Daley Park: free playground and skating ribbon near Loop hotels
- Book 3-4 months ahead for summer and Christmas visits
What is the best kid-friendly hotel in Chicago?
The Four Seasons Chicago is consistently the top pick for families who want the full-service experience. It has an indoor pool, an on-staff ice cream man who delivers to your room, museum passes, and a concierge team that can arrange VIP tickets to city attractions. For the best value, Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown offers two-room suites with free hot breakfast and is a short walk to Michigan Avenue.
What part of Chicago is best to stay in with kids?
The Magnificent Mile and Streeterville area is the best base for most families. It puts you within walking distance of Navy Pier, Michigan Avenue shopping, and a wide range of restaurants.
The Loop is also excellent, with Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park (playground, climbing walls, skating ribbon), and the Art Institute all nearby.
The Gold Coast is quieter and closer to Lincoln Park Zoo.
Which Chicago hotels have family suites or connecting rooms?
Several family-friendly hotels in Chicago offer suites or connecting rooms. Embassy Suites (both downtown locations) provides two-room suites as standard. Swissôtel offers Kids’ Suites where children stay in an adjoining room with games, a play space, and bathrobes. The Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park has one-bedroom suites with a separate living area. The Peninsula offers adjoining rooms plus an in-room tent setup for kids.
Are there family hotels in Chicago with pools?
Yes. Several family hotels in Chicago include pools. The Four Seasons Chicago, InterContinental Chicago, and Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown both have indoor pools. Viceroy Chicago has a seasonal outdoor rooftop pool (note: it converts to a rooftop bar in the evenings, so family swim hours are limited). The Peninsula also has a pool with city views.
Are there good weekend getaways near Chicago for families?
Yes. Several destinations within a couple of hours of Chicago make excellent family weekend trips. Wisconsin Dells is popular for its water parks. Galena, Illinois, offers a charming historic downtown and outdoor activities. Indiana Dunes National Park is a quick drive for beach and hiking. Milwaukee is an easy trip with great museums, including the Milwaukee Art Museum, and kid-friendly neighborhoods.
How far in advance should I book family hotels in Chicago?
For summer visits and holiday weekends (especially around Christmas, when Chicago’s Christkindlmarket draws large crowds), book family hotels in Chicago at least 3 to 4 months ahead. Popular family-friendly properties like the Four Seasons, Loews, and Swissôtel fill up quickly during peak season. For off-peak visits in spring or fall, 4 to 6 weeks ahead is usually sufficient, and you may find better rates.
