Chicago, also known as the Windy City, is the third largest city in the Unites States. It has many fun activities the whole family can take part in; there is the Lincoln Park Zoo (the oldest public zoo in the United States), over 200 art galleries and 200 theaters. It also has plenty of great hotels that really go the extra mile for family groups.
This is one of the most luxurious and therefore most expensive hotels, but it is certainly family friendly. The activities offered for children include board and video games, tub amenities and the inclusion of child-sized robes and a special kid's menu for room service. For the family as a whole, there is a beautiful swimming pool surrounded by Roman style columns, spa and high class restaurant. If you are worried about younger children staying, childproofed rooms are available.
Four Season Hotel
120 East Delaware Place
Chicago, Illinois, 60611-1428
(312) 280-8800
www.fourseasons.com/chicagofs
In the hotel rooms at the Hilton Suites, kids can play on the video games console, hook up to the Internet and watch movies on cable TV. The room is supplied with hypo-allergenic bedding, climate control settings, a crib (if you need it), a multi-line telephone and a free daily newspaper. Venture out of your room and you can pick up a doughnut, pastry or fruit juice from the Blenz Coffee Bar. Freshen up with a swim in the indoor pool, get fit in the fitness center and then enjoy the on-site spa.
Hilton Suites, Chicogo Magnificient Mile
198 E. Delaware Place
Chicago, Illinois 60611-1719
(312) 664-1100
www1.hilton.com
This exquisite hotel is a significant historic landmark and it is not just for adults. Bathrobes and slippers are supplied (in smaller sizes for the little ones) and there is even a turn down service which includes milk and cookies. If your children are in good behavior mode you could take them to a quaint afternoon tea session which you can enjoy whilst listening to live harp music. If not you can take them back to the room to play on the Nintendo, watch cable TV and to enjoy the wireless Internet access.
The Drake Hotel
140 East Walton Place
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 787-2200
Website: www.drakehotel.com
The Monaco is in the Magnificient Mile neighborhood and is one of the very few pet friendly hotels, so even the dog can have a holiday. If you don't have a pet and you're feeling left out, you can borrow a goldfish to tend to while you are staying at the hotel. The animal theme continues with zany rooms decorated with zebra prints and animal print bathrobes supplied to the guests. There is also wireless Internet access, cable TV, CD players and one room even has a jukebox, electric guitar and amplifier.
Hotel Monaco Chicago
225 N. Wabash Avenue
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 960-8500
www.monaco-chicago.com
This Art Deco styled hotel has wonderful modern amenities that include cutting edge technology. Next to the bed is a "command station" where you can control the temperature of the room, the TV and the lights. If you want a bit of romance while you are away (even with the children) there is a "sultry" bar located in the hotel. This hotel also boasts a fitness center, hot tub, sauna and spa. There is an indoor swimming pool which all the family can enjoy, four restaurants and even a European Bakery.
The Peninsula Hotel
108 East Superior Street
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 337-2888
www.peninsulahotel.com
