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A Magical Family Staycation at the Historic Blackstone Hotel

The Kennedy Presidential Suite Delivers a Memorable Stay

By Sara Yaniga, Macaroni KID Chicago December 21, 2023

As a parent, finding the perfect destination for a family getaway that blends luxury, history, and holiday magic can be a challenging task. However, our recent stay at the Kennedy Presidential Suite at the iconic Blackstone Hotel in Chicago exceeded all expectations, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Nostalgic + Historic Decoration: From the moment we stepped into the Kennedy Suite, we were transported back to the 1960s, reminiscent of the Kennedy White House. The room's nostalgic and historic decorations, including marching Nutcrackers and wooden sleds, created a charming and festive atmosphere. The attention to detail in recreating the lavish décor of the era was evident, setting the stage for a magical Christmas scene that delighted both parents and children alike.

Engaging Activities for All: One of the highlights of our stay was the array of engaging activities provided in the suite. The DIY cocoa cart allowed us to customize our hot cocoa with an array of toppings, creating a delightful treat to sip on while enjoying the breathtaking views of the city. Classic board games brought the family together for friendly competition, and typing letters to Santa on a vintage typewriter added a touch of nostalgia to our holiday traditions.




Crafting personalized Christmas ornaments proved to be a favorite among the family. Seated around a large table, with the twinkling Christmas tree nearby, we immersed ourselves in the creative process of making beaded snowflake ornaments. The suite's vintage record player played classic holiday tunes, filling the air with the sounds of Bing Crosby that enhanced the warm and festive atmosphere. Together, we crafted not only ornaments but also lasting memories.

Located on the Cultural Mile: Beyond the enchanting confines of the Kennedy Suite, the Blackstone Hotel's prime location on the Cultural Mile allowed us to explore the rich offerings of Chicago. A short walk away from the Auditorium Theatre, Millennium Park, the Museum Campus, and the shores of Lake Michigan, we immersed ourselves in art, history, and nature. The convenience of being near these iconic landmarks added an extra layer of enjoyment to our stay, providing entertainment and educational experiences for both parents and children.

Our family stay at the Kennedy Presidential Suite at the Blackstone Hotel was nothing short of magical. The combination of nostalgic and historic decorations, engaging activities for all, and the hotel's prime location on the Cultural Mile created an unforgettable holiday experience. Plus the staff was nothing short of amazing! For families seeking a blend of luxury, history, and holiday cheer, the Kennedy Suite at the Blackstone Hotel in Chicago is a perfect choice.

The holiday season may be over, but the creative folks over at the Blackstone Hotel have something new for visitors to enjoy in the Presidential Suite! Check out their all-new Rhythms of the Past: A Vintage Jazz Getaway which is inspired by the hotel's former Jazz Showcase club. The impeccable attention to detail pays homage to the hotel's long history of being a favorite among traveling blues & jazz musicians in the 50's.


Ella Fitzgerald Reading A Book
A Person Holding A Glass Of Liquid



* The Blackstone Hotel hosted our family to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.