Hotel Filters
Hotels with Childcare Near Chicago River
The Chicago River isn’t just a waterway—it’s the city’s living canvas. From sunrise reflections on skyscrapers to golden evening glows, its ever-changing beauty unfolds with time. Whether walking, boating, or snapping photos, you’ll find yourself mesmerized by its timeless rhythm.
JW Marriott Chicago
This luxurious hotel in downtown Chicago is just a 15-minute walk to Millennium Park and Michigan Avenue, offering unbeatable convenience. Relax in the indoor pool, sauna, or treat yourself to a spa massage. Enjoy Italian cuisine at the on-site restaurant or unwind at the bar. Business travelers will appreciate the meeting rooms and business center, while families can take advantage of childcare services. With 610 rooms featuring smart TVs and premium bedding, comfort is guaranteed. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel is your perfect choice!
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
This luxury hotel is perfect for both families and business travelers! Located in the heart of Chicago, just steps away from Michigan Avenue, it’s ideal for shopping and dining. With childcare services and a kids’ play area, parents can relax at the spa or hit the gym. Enjoy the indoor pool, sauna, free WiFi, and shuttle service. The on-site restaurant serves delicious American cuisine, and rooms feature 55-inch smart TVs and premium toiletries for a truly comfortable stay.
Viceroy Chicago
This hotel is the ultimate luxury choice in downtown Chicago! Just a few minutes' walk to State Street and Michigan Avenue, making shopping and sightseeing a breeze. The hotel offers seasonal outdoor pool, fitness center, and even a kids' play area with babysitting services, perfect for families. Rooms are spacious and cozy, featuring Egyptian cotton linens and designer toiletries, plus a minibar and espresso machine—it’s like a home away from home! Business travelers will appreciate the meeting spaces and 24-hour front desk, making it ideal for both leisure and work trips.
Four Seasons Chicago
The Langham Chicago
This hotel is a gem in downtown Chicago! Just a short walk to Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park, it's incredibly convenient. Whether you want to unwind with a luxurious spa massage or relax by the indoor pool, this place has it all. Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant or unwind with a drink at the bar. Families will love the kids' club and children's meals, ensuring fun for the little ones. Business travelers are covered too, with meeting rooms and a business center. Rooms come with minibars and free WiFi, making your stay comfortable and hassle-free!
The St. Regis Chicago
Nestled in the heart of Chicago, just a 10-minute walk from Grant Park and Michigan Avenue, this luxurious hotel is the perfect choice. Whether it's spa treatments, the indoor pool, or the 24-hour fitness center, you'll find plenty of ways to unwind. With childcare services and kids' meals, it's also ideal for families. Two restaurants and 24-hour room service ensure you're never far from a delicious meal, while the bar/lounge is perfect for evening drinks. Added conveniences like valet parking and dry cleaning make your stay even more seamless.
Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago
This hotel is a dream for both families and business travelers! Luxury rooms feature Hyatt’s plush Grand Bed and dedicated charging ports for your devices, with stunning views of downtown Chicago and Lake Michigan. With childcare services and a kids’ playground, little ones will have a blast while you unwind at the golf course or try sailing. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum, and you can cap off your day with cocktails at M/X Lounge. Whether for work or play, this spot has it all!
Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile
This luxury hotel in downtown Chicago is a true gem! Designed by French architect Jean-Paul Viguier, the 32-story glass tower blends modern aesthetics with classic architectural touches. Just minutes away from Lake Michigan, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park, it's perfect for exploring the city. With fitness center, tennis courts, and childcare services, it caters to both families and business travelers. Enjoy valet parking and EV charging stations for hassle-free stays. Rated 4.5 stars, it's a top choice for your Chicago adventure!
L7 Chicago
This hotel is a perfect choice in the heart of Chicago! Just a short walk to the Chicago Riverwalk and Chicago Theatre, with Millennium Park and Art Institute of Chicago nearby. Enjoy top-notch amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, free WiFi, and concierge services, plus wedding services and a cozy lobby fireplace. Dine at Perilla Steak for delicious Korean cuisine or unwind at the bar/lounge. Rooms feature Italian Frette linens and luxury toiletries for ultimate comfort!
Swissotel Chicago
Nestled in the heart of Chicago, this luxurious hotel is just steps away from Magnificent Mile and Millennium Park, perfect for exploring the city! Traveling with kids? Enjoy peace of mind with childcare services and stay active at the 24-hour fitness center. Unwind with massages and spa treatments after a long day. Indulge in delicious meals at The Palm Restaurant or sip cocktails at one of the two bars. Business travelers will appreciate the meeting rooms and business center. Plus, you can even try sailing or kayaking nearby. A dream stay for families and professionals alike!
Loews Chicago Hotel
Looking for a family-friendly yet business-ready hotel in Chicago? Look no further! Perfectly situated downtown, just 10 minutes from Michigan Avenue and the Riverwalk, close to Millennium Park and the Art Institute. Enjoy the indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center, perfect for unwinding. Traveling with kids? Take advantage of childcare services and kids' meals, ensuring everyone has fun. Plus, with free WiFi, express check-out, and a 24-hour business center, work and play are both well taken care of.
The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection
Nestled in the heart of Chicago, this luxurious hotel is just a 5-minute walk to the Willis Tower and Skydeck. Enjoy top-notch amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, free WiFi, and concierge services to make your stay seamless. The elegantly decorated rooms feature minibars and espresso machines, while the plush bedding with Italian Frette linens ensures a restful night. Dine on delicious American cuisine at the on-site restaurant or unwind at the bar. Perfect for both business and family trips, with childcare services and wedding venues available, your stay here will be nothing short of exceptional.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile
This hotel is the perfect choice in downtown Chicago, just a 10-minute walk from Michigan Avenue and State Street, making shopping and sightseeing a breeze! The hotel offers a wide range of amenities, including an indoor pool and fitness center, plus complimentary breakfast and a reception where you can mingle with other guests. The spacious rooms are equipped with 55-inch LCD TVs and microwaves, along with free toiletries, making you feel right at home. Whether you're on a family vacation or a business trip, the 24-hour business center and 8 meeting rooms have got you covered. Don't forget to bookmark this gem for your next Chicago adventure!
Fairmont Chicago - Millennium Park
Nestled in the heart of downtown Chicago, this luxury hotel seamlessly blends classic and contemporary styles, offering breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and Millennium Park. Just a short walk to the Art Institute of Chicago and Navy Pier, the location couldn't be better! With amenities like a fitness center, meeting rooms, and childcare services, it’s perfect for both business trips and family vacations. Enjoy added conveniences like valet parking and laundry services, making your stay even more effortless.
Warwick Allerton Chicago
Millennium Knickerbocker Chicago
Pendry Chicago
The Talbott, Autograph Collection
Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown South Loop
Courtyard Chicago Downtown/River North
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Chicago River
The Peninsula Chicago is a top choice, located just steps from the Chicago River with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the city skyline and illuminated riverbanks. The hotel provides complimentary access to riverboat tours, allowing guests to experience iconic landmarks like Millennium Park and the Cloud Gate sculpture from the water, blending luxury with immersive urban scenery.
The Chicago River at Grant Park is just a 500-meter walk (7 minutes) from Michigan Avenue. Stroll along the scenic Michigan Avenue Promenade, passing cultural icons like Millennium Park, Cloud Gate, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Multiple CTA bus routes and the Blue Line elevated train stop directly near the river, operating 24/7 for seamless access to downtown shopping and entertainment hubs.
Try Chicago Riverwalk Boat Tours, a 1-hour scenic cruise highlighting architectural gems like Chicago Spire, Renaissance Center, and Union Station. Professional guides narrate the city’s history while passengers enjoy views of the riverfront skyline. Optional stops allow dining at Riverwalk restaurants. Nighttime lighting cruises illuminate the buildings in vibrant hues, perfect for photography and romantic evening experiences.
The Peninsula Chicago is a top choice, located at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and the Chicago River, offering floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows with stunning views of the river cruise boats and skyline. The hotel also provides complimentary walking tours along the Riverwalk, showcasing the city’s blend of history and modernity.
Another excellent option is Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago, known for its artistic ambiance and walkable access to the riverfront in just 5 minutes. It frequently hosts summer concerts and local markets along the Riverwalk, making it ideal for travelers seeking authentic Chicago experiences.
The Chicago River offers excellent connectivity: Chicago Riverboat Cruises depart hourly, providing direct access to key destinations like Millennium Park, Willis Tower, and Michigan Avenue shopping district. Alternatively, the Blue Line L train stops at Chicago River Station, reaching Union Station in just 3 minutes for easy transfers across the city.
On foot, the Riverwalk Trail spans 1.5 km and links multiple cultural landmarks, featuring cafes and public art installations. For a scenic and efficient journey, consider using the Divvy bike-sharing system—riding along the river allows quick, enjoyable access between major attractions while enjoying the urban landscape.
Every evening at 8 PM, the Chicago River bridges light up with vibrant colors, creating a mesmerizing display mirrored on the water—perfect for photography and leisurely strolls. The Riverwalk hosts nighttime live music performances and outdoor bar events, with venues like Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! and Bavette's Bar & Boilery offering riverside seating for drinks and dining.
For a deeper experience, book a nighttime river cruise with expert guides who narrate architectural highlights and historical stories as you glide past Gothic buildings, skyscrapers, and old wharves. Some cruises feature live jazz music, adding a sophisticated touch to the serene, illuminated journey down the city’s iconic waterway.
Yes, many riverfront hotels provide family-friendly facilities. Hyatt Regency Chicago features a kids’ play zone by the river and family suites, plus regular interactive workshops such as "Exploring Chicago River Ecology" and "Paper Boat Building Contest".
The Langham, Chicago offers a Kids Club with supervised childcare, allowing parents to enjoy riverfront yoga or dining events. All these hotels are within walking distance of the Children's Museum of Chicago and Millennium Park’s interactive fountains, perfect for full-day family outings. Many also provide complimentary kids’ breakfasts and baby crib rentals, enhancing comfort for traveling families.
The Chicago Riverfront boasts a vibrant culinary scene centered on local ingredients and innovative cuisine. Bavette's Bar & Boilery is renowned for its Chicago-style steaks and seafood boils, with outdoor terraces facing the river—especially magical at night under glowing lights.
Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! specializes in Mexican-Chicago fusion dishes, including signature items like smoked beef tacos and riverfront cocktails. The Riverwalk Market features diverse street food stalls serving artisanal ice cream, grilled corn, and cheeseburgers—ideal for casual bites on the go.
Many restaurants also offer riverside patios, making them perfect for dinner or afternoon tea with scenic views of passing boats and city skylines.
The Chicago River offers diverse water activities. The most popular is the Chicago River Sightseeing Cruise, a 45-minute tour passing beneath five drawbridges, offering panoramic views of Gothic architecture and skyscrapers with multilingual audio commentary.
For adventure seekers, paddleboarding and kayaking tours are available through certified providers, suitable for beginners and enthusiasts alike. These allow close encounters with wildlife and riverside greenery. During summer, lights and jazz cruises combine live jazz music with illuminated river scenes, creating a romantic evening experience.
Some tours include photo services and commemorative souvenirs, adding lasting memories to your journey down this iconic urban waterway.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Chicago River
JW Marriott Chicago
Staying at the JW Marriott Chicago was an absolute highlight of my trip to the city. From the moment I walked in, the elegant ambiance and modern design set the tone for a truly memorable experience. The rooms are immaculately clean—every corner, every surface, spotless. The beds were incredibly comfortable, and the bathroom felt like a spa with top-notch fixtures and thoughtful touches. Everything is brand new and well-maintained, which really adds to the luxury feel. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with anything I needed, from local recommendations to transportation arrangements. Location-wise, it's super convenient; just a short walk to downtown attractions and public transit stops. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, this hotel delivers exceptional value. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s an experience. I’ll definitely book here again next time I’m in Chicago.
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Staying at Waldorf Astoria Chicago was an absolute delight from start to finish. The suite featured a beautiful fireplace, and the front desk staff kindly reminded us about it—plus, a professional came to light it for us, which added such a cozy, luxurious touch. The room itself is spacious and incredibly comfortable, making it feel like a true retreat in the heart of downtown Chicago. Being just steps away from Michigan Avenue’s luxury shopping district is a major plus—everything you’d want is right outside the door, from high-end boutiques to great dining options. Public transit access is also excellent. Every staff member we interacted with went above and beyond with genuine warmth and attention to detail. It’s rare to find such exceptional service combined with elegance and convenience. I’d absolutely stay here again—and recommend it without hesitation.
Viceroy Chicago
Staying at Viceroy Chicago for two nights was an absolute delight. The room size is impressive for a city hotel—spacious and well-designed, offering a comfortable retreat after a busy day of exploring. Located just steps from Michigan Avenue, everything you’d want is within walking distance: shopping, dining, and the iconic Millennium Park are literally around the corner. The nearby museums are also easy to access, making it perfect for travelers who love culture and convenience. The staff went above and beyond with warm, genuine service—always helpful and attentive without being intrusive. From the moment I arrived to the time I checked out, every detail felt thoughtfully curated. This place strikes the perfect balance between luxury, location, and comfort. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Chicago.
Four Seasons Chicago
Staying at the Four Seasons Chicago was an absolutely wonderful experience. The location is perfect—just a short walk from downtown attractions and public transit, making it incredibly convenient for exploring the city. The room was immaculate, spacious, and offered stunning views of the skyline. The staff went above and beyond with their attention to detail and genuine hospitality. One minor note: on the night we stayed, there was quite a strong wind outside, which caused some creaking sounds from the furniture and doors. While noticeable, it didn’t detract from the overall luxury or comfort. Everything else was top-notch—from the bedding to the thoughtful amenities. This is definitely a hotel that delivers on every level, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.
The Langham Chicago
The Langham Chicago is perfectly located—right across from Trump Tower, with Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile, riverboat docks, and a wide array of restaurants all within easy walking distance. The front desk staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful. We booked two rooms—one had weak heating, making it slightly chilly; the other had a leaking toilet and water pooling in the shower area upon arrival. However, these were minor issues compared to the overall experience. The hotel’s elegant ambiance, high-quality furnishings, and attention to detail truly stand out. Despite the small setbacks, the location, service, and general luxury make this a top choice for future stays.
The St. Regis Chicago
After checking out a few options, I’m so glad I chose The St. Regis Chicago—it absolutely exceeded my expectations. The location is perfect, just a short walk from downtown attractions and easily accessible via the metro. The room was spacious and beautifully designed with elegant touches throughout. The bed was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep. Staff were attentive and friendly—every interaction felt personal and genuine. Breakfast was outstanding, with a wide variety of fresh, high-quality options. I especially loved the handmade croissants. It’s clear this hotel puts effort into every detail. Overall, the experience was exceptional, and I’d definitely stay here again on my next visit to Chicago.
Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago
I stayed at this hotel for the Chicago Marathon, and was pleasantly surprised to find how close it was to the packet pickup location—just a short walk away. The hotel itself was spotless, with clean rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay. On race day, they even provided shuttle service, which made everything so much easier and stress-free. I appreciated the thoughtful touch, especially when you're busy preparing for a big event. Overall, the experience was excellent, and I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone attending events in Chicago. The convenience, cleanliness, and service all make it a top choice.
Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile
This hotel has easily been the best value-for-money stay I've experienced in the U.S. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the Magnificent Mile, making it super convenient for exploring downtown Chicago. The design reflects a modern French elegance with thoughtful details throughout—from the furniture choices and color scheme to the overall ambiance. The staff went above and beyond with attentive service; rooms were cleaned promptly, and they even offered the night turndown service, which was such a nice touch. The room came equipped with a Nespresso machine and high-end Balmain bath amenities—luxury at its finest. The bedding was incredibly comfortable, perfect for a good night’s sleep after a long day of sightseeing. If you're visiting Chicago, this is absolutely a top recommendation. A truly memorable stay.
L7 Chicago
Staying at L7 Chicago was an absolute highlight of our trip. The hotel offers top-tier comfort with sleek, modern rooms and a prime location that makes exploring downtown Chicago effortless. Every detail feels thoughtfully designed—from the plush bedding to the high-end amenities. The only minor disappointment was the absence of the lobby’s signature hot chocolate during our stay, which we were really looking forward to. But honestly, that’s just a tiny blemish on an otherwise perfect experience. The staff were friendly, the views from the room were stunning, and the overall atmosphere exudes sophistication. If you're visiting Chicago, this is definitely a top choice—highly recommend for both business and leisure travelers.
Swissotel Chicago
Staying at Swissotel Chicago was an absolute delight! The view from the room was breathtaking—direct riverfront access with stunning views of the Chicago River, and being steps away from downtown makes exploring the city incredibly easy. Safety is top-notch; I felt secure throughout my stay, even late at night. One thing to note: the hotel doesn’t provide complimentary water in the rooms. The convenience store downstairs charges a bit more than expected, so I’d recommend picking up bottled water from a nearby grocery store instead. On the bright side, cleanliness was excellent—the bedding was fresh and comfortable, and all the toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash) were well-stocked. Just remember to bring your own toothbrush and toothpaste, as those aren’t provided. Overall, the location, ambiance, and comfort make this hotel a standout choice for travelers looking for a premium experience in the heart of Chicago.
Loews Chicago Hotel
My stay at Loews Chicago Hotel was absolutely fantastic! From the moment I arrived, everything felt premium and welcoming. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from downtown attractions and public transit, making it super convenient for exploring the city. The hotel itself is beautifully designed with modern elegance, and my room was spacious, clean, and incredibly comfortable. I slept like a baby thanks to the plush bedding. The breakfast spread was impressive—fresh, high-quality options with great variety. Overall, this was more than just a place to sleep; it felt like a true home away from home. Excellent service, thoughtful touches, and an amazing vibe make this a top-tier choice for any traveler. Would book again in a heartbeat.
The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection
This hotel truly lives up to its reputation as one of Chicago’s finest. The interior design is stunning—sophisticated and full of character, with a perfect blend of modern elegance and timeless charm. From check-in to checkout, the staff went above and beyond with warm, attentive service. I was especially impressed by how seamlessly they accommodated my requests. Located just a short walk from Union Station, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring downtown and catching trains. The room was spacious, impeccably clean, and had all the little touches that make a stay feel special. I’ve already started planning my next visit—this place deserves every bit of praise it gets.
Other Destinations You Might Like
Explore more amazing destinations