Best Family Hotels in Chicago for Your Next Trip

Last Updated: Feb 12, 2026

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Chicago is a city that truly has a heartbeat. From the shimmering reflection of the "Bean" in Millennium Park to the roar of the crowd at Wrigley Field, there is an energy here that is infectious. But as any parent knows, a family vacation is only as good as the hotel you’re staying in. If the kids are cranky because the room is too small, or you’re stressed because there’s no breakfast nearby, the magic of the city can fade pretty fast.


That’s why finding top family-friendly hotels in Chicago is the most important part of your planning process. You need a place that understands that "family-friendly" means more than just having a crib in the closet. You need space, location, and maybe a little bit of that Chicago hospitality that makes everyone feel at home.


In this guide, we are going to dive deep into the best spots to stay, why they work for kids, and how you can make the most of your trip to one of the world’s most iconic cities.

Why Chicago is the Ultimate Family Destination

This city is made for creating family memories. Before you even talk about hotels, understand why you're here. Kids can spot beluga whales at the Shedd Aquarium, Máximo the Titanosaur awaits at the Field Museum, and the Adler Planetarium thrills young space enthusiasts.


When you stay at one of Chicago's best family hotels, these attractions are often within walking distance or a quick ride on the "L" train. The city is easy to explore, the food is famous, and yes, kids happily eat deep-dish pizza and hot dogs. Lakeside parks offer plenty of room to run and play.


Our Top Picks For The Best Family Hotels in Chicago

Traveling with kids is easier when you stay somewhere that offers space, comfort, and little extras everyone will love.

1. Loews Chicago Hotel for the VIP Experience 

If you want to have a luxury high-rise experience while ensuring that your kids feel like they’re at a summer camp, Loews is the ideal place. Located in the New Eastside neighborhood, it’s tucked away from the heaviest traffic but still close to the action.


What makes this one of the good family hotels in Chicago is their "Loews Loves Kids" program. When you check in, the kids aren't just tagging along; they are welcomed guests. They offer:


  • Lending Libraries Borrow iPads loaded with games or find a new favorite bedtime story.
  • Childproofing Kits are provided for people traveling with toddlers to make the room extra safe. For those traveling with toddlers, they provide kits to make the room extra safe.
  • The Pool is a large, indoor and perfect for those rainy Chicago afternoons.  


2. Embassy Suites by Hilton (River North)

Let’s be real, staying in a single hotel room with two kids and a stroller is a recipe for a headache. This is why many parents argue that this is the best family hotel in Chicago.


Every single room here is a two-room suite. You get a bedroom for the adults and a separate living area with a pull-out sofa for the kids. But the real "win" here is breakfast. They offer a free, cooked-to-order breakfast every morning. When you’re trying to get a family of four fed before a big day at Navy Pier, saving $80 on breakfast is a massive deal.


3. Swissôtel Chicago Kids Suites Experience

Swissôtel takes a very unique approach to family travel. They offer a "Kids’ Suite," which is essentially a regular room connected to a room designed entirely for children. We’re talking about bright bedding, age-appropriate toys, storybooks, and even a dedicated kids’ room service menu.


It is easily one of the top family-friendly hotels in Chicago because it gives parents privacy while giving kids a space they actually want to hang out in. Plus, the views of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan from these rooms are absolutely breathtaking.


4. The Peninsula Chicago for a Splash of Luxury 

If you are looking to treat the family to a "once-in-a-lifetime" experience, The Peninsula is the gold standard. They have a program called "Camp Peninsula." Imagine your child walking into a 5-star hotel room to find a personalized tent set up just for them, complete with a plush "campfire" and a Peter Bear stuffed animal.


They even organize scavenger hunts through the hotel. It turns a standard stay into an adventure. While it’s on the pricier side, the memories created here are priceless.


5. Hyatt Centennial Park for Families Who Love the Outdoors

If your main goal is to spend every second at Millennium Park or the Art Institute, this is a fantastic choice. It’s one of the good family hotels in Chicago because of its proximity to the "Bean." You can wake up, grab a coffee, and be at the park before the crowds arrive. The rooms are modern, the staff is incredibly helpful with stroller navigation, and the atmosphere is vibrant.


A Quick Look at Where Your Family Fits Best

If you are still wondering which spot is right for your crew, we have you covered. Check out this quick breakdown to see which of the best family hotels in Chicago matches your family's style perfectly.


Loews Chicago

  • Best Vibe: Feeling like a VIP
  • Coolest Perk: Kids get iPads, games, and their own activity packs

Embassy Suites

  • Best Vibe: Plenty of elbow room
  • Coolest Perk: Massive suites and a free hot breakfast

Swissotel Chicago

  • Best Vibe: Pure kid magic
  • Coolest Perk: Themed rooms just for kids with toys and games

The Peninsula

  • Best Vibe: Ultimate luxury
  • Coolest Perk: In-room tents and scavenger hunts around the hotel

Hyatt Regency

  • Best Vibe: No-stop exploring
  • Coolest Perk: Right next to the Bean and major downtown sights

Tips for a Stress-Free Chicago Family Vacation

Staying at the best family hotels in Chicago is the first step, but here are a few "pro-tips" to make the rest of the trip smooth:


  • Get a Ventra Card. The "L" (elevated train) is a fun experience for kids and often faster than sitting in downtown traffic.
  • Visit the Parks Early Places like Maggie Daley Park (which has an incredible "Play Garden") can get crowded. Go early in the morning so the kids can have the slides to themselves.
  • Check the Weather: Chicago's weather is famous for changing in five minutes. Even in the summer, bring a light jacket for those lakefront breezes!
  • Most Chicago restaurants are very kid-friendly. If you're going for deep-dish pizza, remember that it takes about 45 minutes to cook. Order an appetizer for the kids the moment you sit down.

Why Your Hotel Choice Matters

When you search for top family-friendly hotels in Chicago, you’re looking for more than a bed. You’re looking for a home base where you can recharge. You want a concierge who knows where the nearest drugstore is, a pool that stays open late enough for an evening dip, and a room quiet enough that everyone actually gets some rest. Chicago is a big city, but it has a small-town heart. 


The hotels listed above reflect that. They aren't just places to keep your luggage; they are part of the experience. Whether it's the free snacks at the Omni or the sprawling suites at the Embassy, these details turn a "trip" into a "vacation."

Start Your Chicago Family Trip with Travelpodium

Planning the perfect family getaway doesn't have to be a stressful chore when you have the right resources at your fingertips. Chicago is a city built for exploration, and having a comfortable, welcoming place to return to at the end of the day makes all the difference in the world. From the magical "Camp Peninsula" setups to the spacious convenience of River North suites, the options for your family are endless and exciting. 


Ready to start your adventure? Head over to Travelpodium right now to browse the latest deals and lock in your stay at one of these amazing properties. Your perfect Chicago family getaway is just a few clicks away. Let’s get you booked.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

Downtown areas like the Loop, Streeterville, and River North are well-lit, busy, and close to major attractions, making them popular choices for visitors with kids.

Yes, many properties offer cribs, high chairs, kids' menus, pools, and family suites designed to make traveling easier for parents.

Several hotels allow children to stay free when using existing bedding, but age limits and policies can vary by property.

Indoor pools, complimentary breakfast, larger rooms or suites, laundry access, and proximity to attractions can make a big difference.

For summer, holidays, and weekends, booking one to three months early usually gives you better prices and room availability.

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Meet the Author
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Anjali

Anjali is a fresh, passionate writer who brings a unique perspective to travel and destinations. She loves exploring and sharing stories that turn every destination upside down, revealing its hidden charm and stories.

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