articles

Relax & Recharge: 5 Ideas for a Chicago Staycation

By Sara Yaniga, Macaroni KID Chicago March 11, 2023

I had embraced the notion of a "staycation" for years, long before we even had kids, but now I embrace any chance to break from routine, relax and recharge. Here are five favorite spots for a staycation Chicago-style!

1. Baseball Lovers Spring Getaway

Would you like to enjoy the excitement of baseball before taking your seat for the first pitch? Experience everything the Wrigley Field atmosphere offers at Chicago's Hotel Zachary. Their property offers ballpark view rooms, access to game day viewing on the Marquee Network, and great options for food, such as Big Star, Swift & Sons, Smoke Daddy, and West Town Bakery & Tap also surround Hotel Zachary.  Hotel Zachary is also a fantastic location in Chicago neighborhoods such as the Southport Corridor, Lincoln Square, Lincoln Park, and Lake Michigan. Plus, if you have a four-legged friend, you can bring Fido along and trust that s/he will be a welcomed guest! 



2. Kids Camping at Radisson Blu Aqua 

Located downtown near the Lakeshore East neighborhood the Radisson Blu has long been a favorite for families visiting Chicago.  The location is central to all our city has to offer downtown, along the lakefront, and has a great playground and green space situated right behind it.  Radisson Blu Aqua has elevated its family-friendly factor with its "Kids Kamping" package. This fun package includes breakfast, parking and a super cute tent, toys and snacks for the kids, and well-appointed rooms for the grown-ups. Added bonus - this hotel includes great amenities such as two pools and hot tubs (indoor/outdoor), a billiards room and a half-court basketball court for maximum family fun no matter the weather.


Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago - Kids Kamping Package

3. Swissotel Chicago Staycation

Families can take their staycation one step further with a stay in the Swissotel Kids Suite, a two-room suite offering kids their very own separate but adjoining room, accommodating up to six people. The Kids Suite is decorated with kid-friendly linens and kid-sized tables and chairs, featuring a complimentary movie, popcorn and milk and cookies. The suite also includes a wide variety of kid-friendly games, toys, coloring books, stuffed animals and more. Each stay is complete with a complimentary breakfast at The Palm

Swissotel Chicago knows that fur babies are part of the family, too, which is why the hotel is pet friendly. Add on the pet amenity to any room type for $50 and be sure to stop by the front desk for a pet bed, bowls, treats and toys. 




4. Save on City Getaway with Aloft

There’s much to discover in downtown and if you’re looking for an approachable hotel near all the action, Aloft Chicago Mag Mile is the place to be. A Windy City Escape awaits at this modern hotel, offering a central location right on the Magnificent Mile near Navy Pier and the Riverfront. While a city adventure might sound pricey, Aloft is within walking and driving distance of some amazing free attractions like Millenium Park, Lincoln Park Zoo, window shopping, Lakefront trails, Maggie Daley Park Play Garden and more!

Aloft features artfully designed hotel rooms and suites, featuring minimalist décor perfect for relaxing after a busy day shopping and exploring. Stop by WXYZ with friends, a playful bar and lounge at the hotel that offers delicious drinks and weekly live music. The kids can make a splash in the indoor pool, and guests can sweat it out in the fitness center using one of the Pelotons. Even the dog can get in on the Spring Break fun with the hotel’s pet-friendly policy. 

You can take advantage of the hotel's special offers for the early Spring Break crowd adventuring out in March. The Save on City Getaways offering, guests can save 10% on their urban adventure. 




5. The Neighborhood Hotel Lincoln Park

The Neighborhood Lincoln Park intends to provide travelers with a well-equipped, comfortably designed basecamp to nurture and inspire city exploration. Upon arrival, the vintage staircase provides your first adventure: the short trek up to your luxuriously humble abode. 

Imagine beginning your Saturday with a walk to the Farmer's Market followed by a night out that ends with a snack from The Wiener’s Circle (one of the city's most famous hot dog joints) next door. The Neighborhood® is your oasis providing the fresh perspective and change of scenery that you desire (or crave). Cozy bedrooms serve as a cocoon as you’re lulled to sleep by the sounds of the city. A city that sometimes sleeps. 


Space image 1 Of 16


Does your family have a favorite getaway spot that you would like to share?  Drop me a line at sarayaniga@macaronikid.com!

Note: This article contains only information I have personally found useful in my own family travel planning and adventures. No hotels or locations paid to be included and there are no affiliate links included.