10 Best Chicago Hotels for Families

Go for a swim with a view at the Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago, which features an indoor lap pool overlooking Michigan Avenue and the Chicago River. The hotel also allows guests to rent DVDs, Xbox, Xbox Kinect and Playstation to enjoy in their rooms, where they also enjoy the convenience of kitchenettes. Youngsters receive welcome amenities at check-in.

The Candy Man (or Woman) delivers sweet treats to guestrooms and suites at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago. The hotel also offers cookie-baking classes, and the option to pitch a tent in your room! Formerly owned by Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, The Ritz-Carlton Chicago is located on the Magnificent Mile, a short walk from a subway station.

While the Ritz-Carlton Chicago has a Candy Man, The Four Seasons Hotel Chicago has an Ice Cream Man, plus a Martini Man! The hotel also has a clubroom for kids, complete with games and arts and crafts, and welcomes youngsters with gifts upon arrival. Our favorite feature, however, is the indoor pool -- it"s the one that was featured in “Home Alone 2”!

At The James Chicago, kids are spoiled with bicycles (and other goodies) by Paul Frank -- perfect for exploring the trails along Lake Michigan. Guestrooms are unique, too -- they feature separate media areas where movies can be projected on to the wall for an authentic movie theater experience! The hotel also offers Wi-Fi, plus an onsite restaurant and in-room dining.

Embassy Suites is always a good choice for large groups, and the Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown offers families all the necessities in the heart of Chitown. These include apartment-style accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, as well as complimentary, cooked-to-order breakfast and evening receptions. There"s a separate onsite restaurant (Italian), as well, where kids" menus are offered. When it"s time for a break, take a dip in the indoor pool.

Whether you"re planning to see a show or simply looking for a good hotel in Chicago, Hampton Inn Majestic Chicago Theatre District will meet your family"s needs. The fancy chain hotel offers practical amenities, including in-room mini-fridges and microwaves (fee), as well as free Wi-Fi. It also offers complimentary breakfast.

In River North, Hotel Palomar Chicago - A Kimpton Hotel features trendy accommodations with child-size (and adult-size) bathrobes, part of Kimpton Kids. The children"s program also features rentable gold fish and strollers, as well as a kids" menu at the hotel"s restaurant, Sable Kitchen & Bar. Bike rentals, evening wine receptions and the option to bring pets add to the appeal.

The funky exterior of Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago is only a small indication of what families can expect from this all-star hotel. All of the hotel"s accommodations feature cityscape views, with some facing Millennium Park and others overlooking Chicago"s Lakefront. Try the Kids Kamping Package, which includes an in-room tent, fixings for S"mores and a welcome amenity, plus breakfast for two adults and two kids at the onsite restaurant, Filini. Guests also enjoy access to two indoor swimming pools, including one designed for kids.

Want to be in the center of all the action? Consider a stay at Hampton Inn and Suites Chicago-Downtown, which features an indoor swimming pool, outdoor terrace, complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi. There"s also a Ruth"s Chris Steakhouse at the hotel. Some guestrooms and suites have mini-fridges and microwaves.

In terms of value, you can"t beat the Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown. Just steps from Michigan Avenue, the downtown hotel offers spacious two-room suites with fully equipped kitchens. It also offers complimentary breakfast daily and evening receptions on weekdays. Other perks include a convenience store, indoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and the option to bring pets.