Chicago: Children in Chicago

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Children in Chicago

There's no need to hire a babysitter on this trip -- Chicago offers plenty of diversion for youngsters, so be sure to plan ahead and involve your kids as you outline your trip. Museums have special rates for children, and Navy Pier -- with its games, IMAX movies, and Ferris wheel -- is like an amusement park in the middle of the city. Many restaurants provide children's menus. When packing, include items that will keep your children busy en route. On sightseeing days try to schedule activities of special interest to your children. When you arrive, pick up a copy of Chicago Parent, a monthly publication with event and resource listings, available free at locations throughout the city. The Web site, www.chicagoparent.com, has an online calendar of children's activities in and around the city. Fodor's Around Chicago with Kids (available in bookstores everywhere) can help you plan your days together. If you're renting a car, don't forget to arrange for a car seat when you reserve.

Lodging

Most hotels in Chicago allow children under a certain age to stay in their parents' room at no extra charge, but others charge for them as extra adults; be sure to find out the cutoff age for children's discounts. Many hotels feature an indoor heated pool, have pay-as-you-go in-room video game rentals, and are near popular kid-friendly restaurants. Embassy Suites Downtown Lakefront is steps away from Navy Pier. Amenities include complimentary made-to-order breakfasts, and each suite has two televisions and Nintendo. The Four Seasons and the Ritz Carlton offer free extra beds and cribs, complimentary use of the swimming pool and, upon check-in, kids get a free gift.

Best Choices

Best Western River North (125 W. Ohio St., 60610. 800/727-0800 or 312/467-0800). Embassy Suites Downtown Lakefront (511 N. Columbus Dr., 60611. 888/903-8884 or 312/836-5900). Four Seasons Hotel Chicago (120 E. Delaware Pl., 60611. 312/280-8800). The Ritz-Carlton Chicago (160 E. Pearson St., 60611. 312/266-1000).

Sights & Attractions

The top five visitor attractions for kids are Navy Pier (which has a Ferris wheel, merry-go-round, the Chicago Children's Museum, and other rides), Millennium Park, the Art Institute, the Sears Tower or the John Hancock building, and Chicago's architecture. The Sears Tower has a kids' scavenger hunt.