Where to Stay - Chicago - page 39

Kids

Family-Friendly Hotels

Chicago has plenty of options for families on the go. The
Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Downtown (p. 47) keeps the
kids in a good mood with a pool, Nintendo, and proximity
to the Hard Rock Cafe and the Rainforest Cafe. Children 17
and under stay free in their parent's room. Kiddies also stay
free at the Chicago City Centre Hotel & Sports Club (p. 45),
which has a large outdoor pool, access to an indoor pool at
an adjoining health club, and is near Navy Pier and the
beach. The Best Western River North Hotel (p. 47) won't win
any prizes for its no-frills decor, but it's one of the best val-
ues in River North and lies within walking distance of many
family restaurants. The indoor pool and outdoor deck—
with great city views—are another big draw.

public spaces—including the Versailles-inspired Grand Ballroom
and Grand Stair Lobby—are magnificent, but the rest of the hotel
falls into the chain-hotel mold: comfortable and well-run but fairly
impersonal.
The Hilton is a great choice for families thanks to its vast public
spaces, proximity to major museums and Grant Park (where kids can
run around), and policy of children 17 and under staying free in
their parent's room. Because the Hilton depends heavily on conven-
tion traffic, however, those seeking a cozy, romantic getaway should
head elsewhere.
720 S. Michigan Ave. (at Balbo Dr.), Chicago, IL 60605. & 800/HILTONS or 312/922-
4400. Fax [phone]. www.hilton.com. 1,544 units. $129-$399 double;
$179-$7,000 suite. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Valet parking $45; self-parking $41. Sub-
way/El: Red Line to Harrison. Amenities: 4 restaurants (cafe, American, steakhouse,
Irish pub w/live music); 2 lounges; indoor pool; health club w/indoor track, hot tubs,
sauna, and steam room; concierge; business center; 24-hr. room service; massage;
babysitting; laundry service; 24-hr. dry cleaning. In room: A/C, TV w/pay movies,
high-speed and Wi-Fi Internet access, minibar, coffeemaker, hair dryer, iron.

3 Near North & the Magnificent Mile
VERY EXPENSIVE
Four Seasons Hotel Consistently voted one of the top
hotels in the world by frequent travelers, the Four Seasons offers an
understated luxury that appeals to publicity-shy Hollywood stars