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Hotels with Children's Playground 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.
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.
Four Seasons Chicago
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!
Level Chicago - Old Town
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile
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
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.
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.
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.
Level Chicago - Old Town
Staying at Level Chicago - Old Town was an absolutely fantastic experience. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from Old Town’s charming streets, great restaurants, and local shops. The room itself was quiet, beautifully decorated, and perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. I especially loved strolling around the neighborhood—it felt like stepping into a cozy, authentic Chicago vibe. Check-in was a bit slow, but the staff made up for it with incredibly warm and attentive service. They went the extra mile to make sure everything was smooth. This place offers excellent value and comfort—100% recommend! I’ll definitely be back.
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile
Staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile was an absolute delight, especially for someone who loves walking. The location is unbeatable—everything I wanted to see, from the Magnificent Mile to Millennium Park, was within a 3-kilometer radius and easily reachable on foot. That’s a dream for a walking enthusiast like me. Right across the street is a massive supermarket with everything you could need—groceries, snacks, toiletries—and it stays open until well past 11 PM, which is perfect for late-night essentials. On the ground floor, there’s an UNO’s Pizza that’s always packed, open until 11 PM too, and just a short 3-minute walk away is a fantastic seafood restaurant—delicious food, though a bit pricey, but totally worth it. The Red Line subway is literally right outside the hotel entrance, making travel to Midway Airport super convenient. Just transfer once to the Orange Line, then walk five minutes—entirely indoors, so no worries about rain or bad weather. The room itself was spacious, clean, and modernly decorated, typical of U.S. hotels where space isn’t an issue like in Southeast Asia. Room amenities were excellent: coffee maker, safe, mini-fridge (though keep in mind it only makes ice—my milk and yogurt froze solid! 😂), microwave, and even a full ironing board. I took advantage of that to press all my clothes before heading home—huge plus. Housekeeping comes every other day, which is standard, but any request via phone gets handled quickly. The only thing to note: if you’re sensitive to noise, bring earplugs—there are occasional late-night sirens from patrol cars, but nothing disruptive. Overall, this hotel delivers incredible value, great convenience, and a comfortable stay in the heart of downtown Chicago. If I ever return to the city, I’d absolutely book here again.
Holiday Inn Express Chicago - Magnificent Mile
I can't recommend this Holiday Inn Express Chicago - Magnificent Mile enough. The location is unbeatable—right across from Trader Joe's, so grocery shopping is a breeze. It's just a 7-8 minute walk to Trump Tower, and less than 20 minutes to Millennium Park. From there, it's only a few more minutes to the shores of Lake Michigan—perfect for a relaxing evening stroll. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. We arrived at 10 AM, and even though check-in wasn't available yet, they gladly stored our luggage at no extra cost. When we returned around 2:30 PM, we were told to wait about 25 minutes. But instead of leaving us waiting in limbo, the staff actually came to check on us—and discovered a room was already ready! They apologized and made sure we were taken care of right away. While the amenities aren't flashy, the rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. For the price and convenience, this place offers outstanding value. I’ll definitely be back if I ever visit Chicago again.
The Westin Chicago River North
The location couldn't be better—just a short walk from the Chicago River and surrounded by great dining, shopping, and attractions. From the moment I checked in, the staff went above and beyond with their friendly and professional service. The room was clean, spacious, and incredibly comfortable, with a perfect bed that made for a restful night's sleep. I especially appreciated the delicious breakfast options—fresh, varied, and well-prepared. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed to enhance the stay. This hotel truly delivers on every level, and I’d definitely return without hesitation.
Eurostars Magnificent Mile
This is our second time staying at Eurostars Magnificent Mile, and we’re already planning our next visit! The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of downtown Chicago, with endless shops, restaurants, tourist spots, supermarkets, and bars just steps away. We absolutely love the on-site sauna—it’s perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. The room is spacious, clean, and well-appointed, making it feel like a home away from home. The staff go above and beyond with their friendly, genuine hospitality. This hotel feels like a hidden gem, and it’s now our go-to choice whenever we come to Chicago. Don’t miss the downstairs restaurant, River North Bistro—especially during happy hour! The food and drinks are fantastic, and the vibe is lively yet relaxed. Highly recommend this place for both business and leisure travelers.
Chinatown Hotel Chicago
Staying at Chinatown Hotel Chicago was an absolute delight! The room features floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light—every morning felt like a fresh start. What stood out most was the excellent air circulation; even on warmer days, the room stayed refreshingly cool without relying heavily on the AC. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from downtown and surrounded by great local eateries, making it perfect for exploring the vibrant neighborhood. Clean, well-designed rooms with thoughtful touches make this hotel a hidden gem in Chicago. If you're looking for comfort, convenience, and a true local vibe, this place is a must-try.
Hotel Felix
Staying at Hotel Felix in Chicago's North Loop was a great experience. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the train station, making it super convenient to explore downtown and the Magnificent Mile. There are plenty of restaurants nearby, so dining options are never an issue. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. The only downside was a plumbing issue on our last day, which meant we had to take a cold shower—minor inconvenience, but nothing major. Overall, the hotel offers excellent value, clean rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.
The Buckingham Hotel
Staying at The Buckingham Hotel in Chicago was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond—warm, friendly, and incredibly helpful right from the moment we arrived. I booked a room with an amazing view, and it did not disappoint—the skyline stretched out before me, especially breathtaking at night when the city lights came on. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated, from the cozy furnishings to the quiet, well-maintained hallways. What really stood out was how accommodating the team was—they anticipated needs without being intrusive and made sure every request was handled with a smile. If I could rate this hotel 10 stars instead of 5, I absolutely would. This isn’t just a great place to stay—it’s a memorable experience. I’ll be back, and I 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.
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