The 9 best family-friendly hotels in Chicago for a no-tears holiday

You know what kids like? Presents (and yummy snacks). And when they arrive at Omni Chicago Hotel—situated in the heart of Mag Mile—that’s exactly what they’ll get. The hotel’s adorable (and meaningful) Omni Junior Chefs programme presents each kid with a welcome tote containing organic snacks, a to-go cup, crayons and an activity book, and a Goodnight to Hunger post card to color in and hand back to reception as a way of donating a meal to Feeding America. Entertaining, enriching and doing a good deed: what more could you want? It’s also in a great location for accessing all the city’s major attractions.

The Ritz Carlton rolls out the red carpet for you and your family the moment you arrive. The young’uns are greeted by the hotel’s Red Wagon and offered a toy of their choice to take home as a souvenir. Toss in the candy cart (which can be called up to your room) and a special Chicago-themed coloring book to keep them busy at dinner, and you've got the makings of a happy holiday. The hotel is located inside Water Tower Place, which means American Girl Place is just downstairs (look out for the special packages the hotel offers), as is Lookingglass Theatre Company, which often produces spectacular, family-friendly shows.

The Four Seasons is a perennial winner when it comes to taking care of kids. This includes the recently renovated Kids Room, with everything from crafts to interactive games on offer, which you can request a custom key card that allows daily access. When you arrive, you’ll be introduced to Sammy the Skyscraper, the hotel’s mini mascot and his scavenger trail Adventure Passport and activities book. Older children will love the all-ages pool and the spa’s youth services. There’s also an in-room gamer menu, weekly movie nights and tickets to local attractions like the Shedd Aquarium.

This luxury hotel (formerly the Palomar) is a short jaunt from American Girl Place and Water Tower Place, where you’ll find hours of retail-fueled adventure for the kiddos. The hotel's famous 'guppy love' program has been discontinued but there's still the opportunities to make like a fish and swim the day away in the hotel's indoor pool. They also offer a bike rental service if you think everyone could do with a bit of fresh air and exercise.

Another super luxe hotel that’s surprisingly great at catering to families, The Langham has its own Kids Club based in a super sweet area of the hotel. There’s also the Cinema Suite to make use of with older children and a swish indoor pool open to all ages. The hotel also goes the extra mile with practical things like baby safety gates, strollers and babysitting services. But we really love the idea of the Playtime with Paddington package with its array of Peruvian bear-themed accessories, which include a tent, pillowcases, bed runner, bathrobe, dining set, raincoat, plushie and cookies. Really, it’s adorable.

You’ll be drawn to this boutique hotel’s funky lobby, cool rooftop bar and beautiful rooms. Your kids, on the other hand, will love the fact that it’s located just across the street from the Lincoln Park Zoo, which the hotel literally overlooks. Second City, the Chicago History Museum and North Avenue Beach are just around the corner, too. If you feel up to it, the hotel will lend you bicycles for a wholesome trip out and about. Oh, and the family dog can join in on the fun with the hotel’s “Bark in the Park” amenity service.

This hotel’s River North location not only puts you near the city’s finest shops and attractions, but it also gives your family access to the Red Line, making it easy to explore the rest of the city. There's an all-ages indoor pool, a free hot breakfast buffet and a useful fridge in each room. When bedtime rolls around, ask for the kid-adored camping package, which includes a pop-up bed tent, small flashlights, activities and a guide to making shadow puppets. 

The best thing about staying in a hotel where every room is a suite is that there’s breathing room for everyone. The hotel’s Pizzeria Via Stato offers big-win Italian dishes in a relaxed and family-appropriate atmosphere or, if you prefer to eat your Margaritta in bed, they offer carryout and room service for lunch and dinner. There’s also a super stylish indoor pool and you’re within walking distance of Millenium Park and the Theater District.

This boutique hotel might look far too chic a place to even imagine taking children too. But the 21c Museum Hotel is only too pleased to make LOs feel at home. Book the Family Explorer Package and you’ll get a custom backpack with all-important snack pack plus a rather cute penguin toy. They’ll also provide extra beds and cots all the way up to five-years-old and above (for a small charge), and let you bring the family pooch. Inspire your mini Picassos with the hotel’s excellent contemporary art exhibitions (just ummm… no touching, right?!).