Great Wolf Lodge Illinois
With 80,000 square feet worth of water park , an adventure park complete with climbing walls, rope courses and an arcade, and more-than-enough eateries to satisfy any eater, theres no end to the things that will keep your family engaged at the Great Wolf Lodge.
The hotel offers 13 different suite options, including KidCabin suites with bunk beds and the focused-at-kids Wolf Den. Families can also opt for the excellent multi-bedroom family suites the hotel offers.
Make sure you try out the hotels 8 different eateries, especially Barnwood. This elevated restaurant provides a unique farm-to-fork dining experience, using exclusively locally-sourced ingredients in its food.
The yummy food will keep the kids satiated while the restaurants line of wines, signature cocktails and craft beers will keep the parents satiated!
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Swisstel Chicago The Loop
The hotel has Kids Suites and VIK check-in with an area for coloring, reading, and playing. Kid suites are separate but adjoining rooms with child-sized furniture and amenities like DVDs, stuffed animals, and video games. If that isnt enough, the penthouse indoor heated pool will keep them splashing up a good time. Phone: 268-8010
Streeterville Best Place To Stay In Chicago On A Budget
Tucked between Lake Michigan and Chicagos glitzy and glamorous Magnificent Mile is the lively neighbourhood of Streeterville also one of the best places to stay in Chicago if money is tight.
One of Streetervilles most famous and fun attractions is Navy Pier. A bright and vibrant hub for excitement and entertainment, Navy Pier consists of shops, parks, restaurants, thrilling rides and lively games. Whether you want to fly through the air and take a spin on a carousel or navigate your way through Chicagos Funhouse Maze, theres something for everyone at Navy Pier.
Not only is Streeterville our pick for fun and games, but its our pick for where to stay in Chicago on a budget thanks to its great hostel options. Note that you can save even more money if you avoid visiting Chicago on the weekend.
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Best Hostel In River North: Found Hotel Chicago River North
Located in lively River North, Found Chicago offers all the luxury and convenience of a hotel at an affordable price. This stylish and charming property is just steps from some of the best bistros, bars and shops in the city. It has comfortable rooms, free wifi, and an on-site bar, café and restaurant.
Chicago Family Vacation: Where To Stay
There are several options on where to stay in Chicago.
We recommend staying in the Magnificent Mile, The Loop, or River North area of downtown Chicago.
The Magnificent Mile is close to the John Hancock Building, Navy Pier, and upscale shopping. The Loop is close to the Willis Tower and Millennium Park.
On the other hand, River North hotels are still within walking distance to major attractions but provide budget-friendly options that often include pools and free breakfast.
We stayed in the River North area at Best Western River North and were pleased with its location and amenities.
Additional planning tip: Here are some more popular family hotels in Chicago for visiting Chicago in 3 days.
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Stop #: Architectural River Cruise
After walking down Magnificent Mile to the south, you will come across the Michigan Avenue Bridge and Chicagos Riverwalk.
Here is where you access the Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise aboard Chicagos First Lady. This is stop #2 on our Chicago 3 day itinerary.
For GPS directions, use 112 E. Wacker Drive and look for their blue awning marking the stairway down the river walk dock.
Though there are a few other river cruise options, we absolutely loved our experience on the CAFC River Cruise and highly recommend it.
The boat was fun and nostalgic, and the commentating was highly informative.
There is a full bar aboard that includes snacks, drinks, and cocktails.
Imagine a glorious float down the Chicago River learning about the towering skyscrapers while sipping a Mimosa with Tony Bennett music playing in the background
A Chicago river cruise must be a part of any perfect 3-day Chicago itinerary!
Chicago family vacation planning tips: Secure 10:30 AM CAFC River Cruise reservations. Pick up your tickets at 10:00 AM and get in line no later than 10:15 AM to be the first to board the First Lady.
Seats are not pre-assigned and are first-come-first-serve. Choose seats on the upper deck along the sides for the best unobstructed photo ops.
The entire river cruise lasts 90 minutes.
Embassy Suites Downtown River North
Mere minutes away from the citys top attractions, the Embassy Suites is a fabulous kid-friendly hotel with a pool.
Families can enjoy a supremely comfortable stay in the hotels two-room suites and delicious complimentary cooked-to-order breakfasts. The hotel also hosts a reception every night where guests can enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages.
After a long day of sightseeing, head back to the hotel for a relaxing soak in the indoor heated pool or whirlpool. Could the day end on a better note? I think not!
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Best Hotel In Wicker Park: Wicker Park Inn
Technically not a hotel, this bed and breakfast is an amazing option if youre looking for a place to stay near Wicker Park. The comfy rooms are spacious and incredibly clean. Youll be located in the heart if Wicker Park, meaning that loads of the neighborhoods best attractions are in walking distance. The super tasty breakfast is included in the price. If you want to prepare more food, you can use the shared kitchen, which is fully equipped with pots, pans and everything you might need.
West Loop/near West Side
Home of the basketball legend Michael Jordans former stomping ground,, Near West Side is home to a number of Chicagos well-admired cultural landmarks, including the Blues Brothers, the deep-dish pizza, the blues, and the Chicago-style hot dog. A major port of entry for Chicago throughout the 1800s and the early part of the 1900s, Near West Side was once home to Oprah Winfrey. Now recognized for the two culinary streets, Little Italy and Greektown, the neighborhood also comprises the West Loop, home of many elite restaurants, flourishing gallery scene, and quite a few museums. If you are here for the weekend, dont miss a visit to the New Maxwell Street Market.
Good for: All kinds of travelers, especially food-lovers.Others Highlights: Jane Addams Hull House Museum, National Hellenic Museum, Andrew Rafacz Gallery, Donald Young Gallery, National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame, and Saint Ignatius College Prep.
Hotel Recommendations:
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Art Institute Of Chicago
Over at the Art Institute of Chicago free for under-14s a real-life audience with some of the most recognizable paintings in the Western canon may stir your childs inner Picasso. Dollhouse fans will be enchanted by the tiny universe of the Thorne Miniature Rooms. The Ryan Learning Center provides interactive games, such as puzzles of famous works, and art-making activities. Even the most jaded teen will crack a smile for selfies with the iconic stone lions that stand sentry on the museums front steps.
Where To Eat With Kids In Chicago
Just about all but the most exclusive restaurants will accommodate children without batting an eye, though for your familys own comfort you might find it best to have your doggie bags in hand by 6:30pm, when dinner crowds can make maneuvering strollers and high chairs awkward. Adventurous eaters will love slurping noodles beneath the pagodas of Chicago’s Chinatown and digging into enormous dosas amidst the sari shops and Indian candy stores of Devon Avenue: both neighborhoods offer a spoil of dining spots that are casual and easy on the wallet.
Certain restaurants go the extra mile to welcome little guests. Lincoln Parks retro RJ Grunts soothes post-zoo fatigue with kid-sized shakes and burgers along with a complimentary stroller valet, while over in hip Ukrainian Village, Quad Cities-style pizza spot Roots encourages tiny diners to play with their food, distributing dough balls to be squashed and stretched while dinners in the oven. Grown-up topping options like duck sausage and a lengthy Midwestern beer list will keep parents happy too.
Kids get the royal treatment each afternoon at the Drake Hotels Little Prince and Princess Tea, an elaborate spread of dainty nibbles served up in the hotels grand Palm Court. Fanciful decorations and carolers make holiday season visits here particularly magical. Parents and rugrats alike will be sweet on the inventive ice cream at West Towns Black Dog Gelato and the rich hot chocolate at Logan Squares Katherine Anne Confections.
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Residence Inn Downtown River North
The Residence Inn is a great place to stay in Chicago whether you want busy days full of sightseeing or want to disconnect from the world and just chill with your family!
Located close to Magnificent Mile, guests of this all-suite hotel can either opt to explore the attractions of the surrounding areas or relax in the gorgeous rooms that come equipped with full-size kitchens.
Extended guests of the hotel are welcome to use the grocery shopping service free of cost, or they can head to the on-site market for a quick bite.
The hotel also hosts an evening reception that provides complimentary refreshments to guests from Monday through Thursday. They also provide complimentary hot breakfasts.
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Lincoln Park Best Place To Stay In Chicago For Families
Chicagos Lincoln Park neighbourhood is where everyone from collegiate freshman and newbie lawyers mixes and mingles with young families and well-established brokers. Its one of the best areas to stay in Chicago and is where you can enjoy a true slice of the local life.
Home to fantastic attractions including the Lincoln Park Zoo and the eponymous park, this northern neighbourhood is our pick for where to stay in Chicago for families. Its one of the greenest districts with more than 1,200 acres of natural space to explore and it boasts a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere.
Here you can marvel at the beautiful architecture, take a stroll along the water and through lush parks, and indulge in many decadent cupcakes.
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Old Town Nice Area Where To Stay In Chicago
Settled by German immigrants in 1850, Old Town feels like stepping back in time. With its beautiful Victorian architecture, quiet tree-lined streets, and lively goings-on, Old Town frequently ranks high among must-see areas during a stay in Chicago.
The famous Second City Theater, where such comedic legends as John Belushi, Tina Fey, and Stephen Colbert got their start, is a landmark attraction while the edgier Zanies, whose alumni includes the likes of Aziz Anzari, offers adults-only humor.
Just around the corner from Second City is the Old Town Pour House, which on any given day offers at least 90 beers on tap, while the areas surrounding shops and eateries leave nothing to be desired on the food aficionado front.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CHICAGO IN OLD TOWN
Intercontinental Chicago Magnificent Mile
One among Magnificent Miles many luxurious offerings, the InterContintental enjoys a prime location with many cultural and entertainment attractions closeby.
Guests can enjoy the many attractions of the area or ride a trolley and visit the Millenium Park or Navy Pier.
Whats more, the hotel boasts a Junior-Olympic sized indoor pool , for a relaxing or energetic swim the choice is yours!
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Best Airbnb In River North: Cozy One Bedroom With Views Of Chicagos Skyscrapers
Nothings worse than having to share a room with others while suffering from a previous night out. Cure your hangover in this stunning Airbnb, located in the famous River North neighborhood. Youll be living on a higher floor, meaning that there are no loud street noises interrupting your recovery sleep. Theres a Smart TV, highspeed Wifi, and a fully equipped kitchen ready to be used. On top of that, theres also a wholefoods grocery store on-site.
River North Great For Nightlife
This hip neighborhood on the Near North Side boasts a luxurious selection of boutique shops, bistros, and cocktail bars, with the Merchandise Mart, built in the 1920s as part of the former industrial complex and the worlds largest commercial building, a must-do attraction.
The Navy Pier is a summer highlight, with its adjacent Pier Park offering families a full days experience thanks to an IMAX cinema, old fashioned rides, mini golf, and boat tours.
Music lovers will no doubt want to check out the world-famous House of Blues and Museum of Broadcast Communications, while the Museum of Contemporary Art and Chicago Shakespeare Theater are for true Renaissance souls.
This area is one of the best places for nightlife. You will find here some of the best pubs and clubs of the city.
The areas lovely boutique hotels make for a particularly romantic stay in Chicago.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN RIVER NORTH
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Best For: Foodie Families
Families who like to eat will love being in West Loop, where tons of Chicagos newest and trendiest restaurants are located. While the restaurants here wouldnt exactly be characterized at family-friendly, even an early dinner at The Publican is quite doable . If youre hard-pressed to get a reservation at Girl & the Goat, a breakfast at sister-restaurant Little Goat will certainly please both the kids and adults.
To Do In/Near West Loop | Randolph Street Market Festival, Mary Bartelme Park, Chicago French Market, Union Station
Family Hotels in West Loop
Stop #: Millennium Park
After stopping for lunch at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe, spend plenty of time visiting Chicagos iconic Millennium Park.
Here is where you will find the most talked-about attractions that people typically refer to when visiting Chicago.
Each of these attractions should be part of any Chicago trip with family!
Cloud Gate
The most popular attraction in Millennium Park is the Cloud Gate sculpture.
When considering what to do in Chicago in 3 days, visiting Cloud Gate is a must!
Commonly referred to as The Bean, Cloud Gate is an art piece that is a great place to take photos, especially off of its reflective surface.
You can see the reflection of the Chicago skyline, walk under The Bean, and take photos from all sides.
Despite the crowds, is large enough to accommodate large amounts of visitors.
Crown Fountain
Another highlight of Millennium Park is Crown Fountain. Two 50ft LED screens light up while displaying the faces of average Chicago residents.
Every 5 minutes, the mouths of the faces spill water onto the ground creating a shallow reflective pool.
The fountains make a great place for kids to cool off in the hot summer months.
BP Pedestrian Bridge
The gigantic stainless steel BP Bridge connects Millennium Park to Maggie Daley Park.
Though there are other outlying sidewalks to get to Maggie Daley Park, make it a point to walk across this unique pedestrian bridge.
Its snake-like curvature and prize-winning architecture make it an experience to remember.
Maggie Daley Park
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