Where to Stay in Chicago
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Quick Answer
Stay in Lincoln Park
Offers the free Lincoln Park Zoo, extensive green space, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
See full Chicago neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Chicago
Family-friendly neighbourhoods that are safe and practical
Lincoln Park
A charming, leafy residential area with a beautiful park, zoo, and a lively street life.
Our top picks in Lincoln Park
A cozy, unique bed and breakfast offering a personalized experience near the zoo.
Book NowA well-regarded hotel offering comfortable rooms and easy access to the park.
Book NowStylish hotel with a rooftop bar and modern amenities, located near the park.
Book Now
The Loop
The bustling heart of Chicago, packed with iconic architecture, theaters, and business.
Our top picks in The Loop
A historic landmark hotel with opulent decor and a central location.
Book NowModern hotel with a rooftop bar offering panoramic city views.
Book NowStylish boutique hotel known for its excellent service and pet-friendly policies.
Book Now
Wicker Park/Bucktown
Bohemian and trendy, known for its independent boutiques, live music venues, and diverse dining scene.
Our top picks in Wicker Park/Bucktown
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Families
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1Lincoln Park | Mid-range | A charming, leafy residential area with a beautiful park, zoo, and a lively street life. | familiescouples | Generally very safe, with well-lit stree... |
Wicker Park/Bucktown | Mid-range | Bohemian and trendy, known for its independent boutiques, live music venues, and diverse dining scene. | solo travelersnightlife | Generally safe during the day, but some ... |
The Loop | Luxury | The bustling heart of Chicago, packed with iconic architecture, theaters, and business. | first-timersculture | Generally very safe due to high police p... |
River North | Luxury | A vibrant district known for its art galleries, trendy restaurants, and energetic nightlife. | nightlifefoodies | Generally safe due to popularity and den... |
Find family-friendly hotels in Chicago
Hotels with family rooms and kid-friendly amenities
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Tips for Families in Chicago
Plan Around Nap Times
Schedule big attractions for the morning when energy is highest. Keep afternoons flexible for downtime or playground visits.
Pack Snacks
Having familiar snacks on hand prevents meltdowns. Local supermarkets are cheaper than tourist-area shops for stocking up.
Consider Apartments
An apartment with a kitchen and washing machine can be more practical than a hotel in Chicago, especially for stays over 3 nights.
Keep Distances Short
Young children tire quickly. Choose accommodation near your top 2 to 3 must-see attractions rather than in the geographical centre.
Book a family activity in Chicago
Kid-friendly tours and fun experiences
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Chicago
Lincoln Park
Mid-rangeA charming, leafy residential area with a beautiful park, zoo, and a lively street life.
- +Beautiful green spaces and lakefront access
- +Excellent restaurants and bars
- +More relaxed atmosphere than downtown
- -Further from downtown attractions (requires public transport or longer walk)
- -Can be expensive
🛡️ Generally very safe, with well-lit streets and active community presence, even at night.
Wicker Park/Bucktown
Mid-rangeBohemian and trendy, known for its independent boutiques, live music venues, and diverse dining scene.
- +Great value for money
- +Unique shops and vibrant arts scene
- +Excellent public transport to downtown
- -Can be loud and busy, especially on weekends
- -Fewer traditional tourist attractions
🛡️ Generally safe during the day, but some blocks can feel a bit gritty at night; stick to well-lit main streets and be aware of your surroundings.
The Loop
LuxuryThe bustling heart of Chicago, packed with iconic architecture, theaters, and business.
- +Central location
- +Easy access to major attractions
- +Excellent public transport links
- -Can feel corporate and quiet on weekends/evenings
- -Fewer local dining/bar options compared to other areas
🛡️ Generally very safe due to high police presence and tourist traffic during the day, but can feel deserted and less safe late at night, especially on weekends.
River North
LuxuryA vibrant district known for its art galleries, trendy restaurants, and energetic nightlife.
- +Abundant dining and entertainment options
- +Upscale atmosphere
- +Close to shopping and attractions
- -Can be very crowded and noisy
- -Expensive
🛡️ Generally safe due to popularity and density of people, but be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night when bar crowds disperse.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
USD 350/day
Hidden Gems in Chicago
Lesser-known spots the locals love
The 606 (Bloomingdale Trail)
FREEAn elevated park built on a former railway line, offering a unique perspective of the city as you walk, bike, or run above the streets. It connects several neighborhoods and features public art installations.
Garfield Park Conservatory
FREEOne of the largest and most stunning conservatories in the country, this lush indoor botanical oasis is a peaceful escape year-round. Explore diverse plant collections in beautiful, climate-controlled rooms.
International Museum of Surgical Science
Housed in a beautiful historic mansion, this museum offers a surprisingly fascinating and sometimes eerie look into the history of medicine and surgery. It's a quirky and educational experience unlike any other.
Lincoln Park Zoo
FREEWhile it's a zoo, it's often overlooked by tourists rushing to other attractions. It's one of the oldest zoos in North America and is situated within the beautiful Lincoln Park, offering a free and charming experience.
Safety in Chicago
SafeSolo Female Travel
Chicago is generally safe for solo female travelers, especially in well-trafficked tourist areas and popular neighborhoods during the day. Standard precautions apply: be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas, and trust your instincts.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, busy streets in popular areas like the Loop, River North, Lincoln Park, and Old Town. Be cautious in less populated or darker areas, especially on the outskirts of downtown or in less-touristy residential zones.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1The 'friendship bracelet' scam near tourist spots (someone ties a bracelet on you and demands payment).
- 2Overly aggressive street performers or petition solicitors who can become pushy.
- 3Fake police officers asking for money or 'fines'.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Chicago
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Chicago Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Chicago on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Chicago Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Chicago with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Chicago: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Chicago's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Chicago: Scenic Excursion
Escape Chicago for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Chicago Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Chicago's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Chicago
Families in Chicago: FAQ
What is the best area in Chicago for families?
Is Chicago safe for families?
How much does it cost per day in Chicago for families?
When is the best time for families to visit Chicago?
Are there family-friendly activities in Chicago?
Found your hotel in Chicago?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
Plan Your Perfect Chicago Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.