Picture this: the car packed, kids excited, the city skyline fading behind you. In less than half an hour, you’re someplace different — where trees outnumber traffic lights, shops sparkle with holiday lights, and every hotel feels ready to wrap you in comfort. That’s Oak Brook, where Chicagoland go when they want a little breathing room and a lot of festive fun — and where a quick family getaway to Oak Brook feels like a full vacation.
Staying overnight in Oak Brook doesn’t just feel good — it’s a smart choice, too. You’ll enjoy free parking, a low 3% hotel tax and plenty of festive extras that make a weekend getaway easy on your wallet and big on holiday magic.
Here’s our guide to seven must-do Oak Brook hotel experiences that make this the perfect holiday escape near Chicago.
1. Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook Chicago: The Santa Suite and other forest-side surprises
Tucked within 88 acres of trees and trails, Hyatt Lodge feels worlds away from city noise. The Santa Suite — a decked-out family room with a Christmas tree, twinkling lights, and cozy corners perfect for matching pajama photos — is as festive as it gets. We love that everything here feels easy: the indoor pool for winter splashing, the Stay and Swim package, and Prancer’s Pub, a unique holiday-themed pop-up where families sip cocoa (and parents enjoy something stronger) in a space bursting with over-the-top holiday décor.
And this year, the Lodge adds even more seasonal fun with “Deck the Hall at the Lodge,” held on three magical Saturdays in December. Families can gather to share the spirit of the season with gingerbread cookie decorating, a build-your-own hot cocoa mix station, a reindeer food station and holiday coloring activities — all paired with a cozy hot cocoa bar that keeps the cheer flowing.
2. The Drake Oak Brook, Autograph Collection: Where classic holiday charm never goes out of style
If your family loves a little tradition with their twinkle lights, The Drake Oak Brook is your spot. We’d choose the Holiday Afternoon Tea or Teas and Tiaras experience for the way it turns a simple afternoon into something storybook-worthy. And if your kids light up at the mention of Santa or the Grinch, the holiday brunches here deliver both kinds of magic. Don’t miss the annual tree lighting, a community favorite that makes you feel like you’re stepping right into a holiday movie.
For a full-on holiday immersion, book The Drake’s “Dreaming of Drake Christmas” experience. Your family will step into a pair of festively decorated rooms complete with cookies to decorate, milk for sipping and even a special delivery from Santa himself. There’s a Cookie Hotline for refills, a Christmas movie to enjoy together, and a secret code word little ones can whisper for an extra surprise from Santa’s helpers. It’s everything you love about the holidays — wrapped into one unforgettable stay.
3. Le Méridien Chicago Oakbrook Center: Shop, stay, and savor the view
If your family’s holiday season is all about crossing off that gift list, Le Méridien puts you right where you need to be — steps from Oakbrook Center, ranked the No. 4 shopping center in the country by “USA TODAY.” Start the day in the hotel’s well-appointed fitness center, then explore nearby favorites like the Google Store, Boll & Branch and Build-A-Bear. Then, book your own private spa suite where you can relax on a heated rainbed.
And because pets are family too, Le Méridien welcomes dogs with open arms. Your four-legged friend will receive complimentary treats at check-in, plus a special door hanger for the room so everyone knows a VIP (Very Important Pup) is inside. After all, why should humans have all the weekend-away magic?
4. Hyatt House Oak Brook: Room to relax and play
If you’ve ever tried to get a toddler to sleep in the same room as you, you’ll appreciate Hyatt House. The suites here give families space to spread out, with kitchenettes for snacks and a comfy living area for movie night.
Kids can splash in the indoor pool, and when you’re ready to explore, head to Fullersburg Woods Nature Center for a peaceful walk or to see the 13,000-year-old skeleton of a woolly mammoth. You can also visit Mayslake Peabody Estate for a fascinating Historic Mansion Tour or the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, where kids can marvel at sparkling stones and the beautiful Castle Lizzadro.
5. DoubleTree Oak Brook: Pool time and pizza night, family-style
Sometimes, the best memories are the simple ones. At DoubleTree Oak Brook, that might mean jumping into the indoor pool after a day of shopping or grabbing an easy dinner nearby at Antico Posto or Kura Revolving Sushi Bar, where conveyor-belt sushi is interactive and fun, especially for kids. DoubleTree Oak Brook could even be your home base for a highly anticipated breakfast-time gingerbread decorating experience at Labriola Ristorante.
And yes, you’ll get that warm chocolate chip cookie at check-in — the kind of small thing that makes a weekend away feel instantly cozy.
6. Residence Inn by Marriott Oak Brook: Your home base for family downtime
Residence Inn is our pick for families who like to mix adventure with a little downtime. The spacious, pet-friendly suites feel like home, with separate living and sleeping spaces, full kitchens, and even a free grocery delivery service to keep everyone fueled between activities.
Start your morning with the hotel’s complimentary hot breakfast, and don’t miss the Gingerbread Scavenger hunt on weekends in December and early January — your kids will love receiving a special holiday prize for finding all five gingerbread men.
Then, spend the day exploring Oak Brook’s shopping and dining scene or relaxing at the indoor pool. As evening arrives, bundle up and head to Winter Lights at Central Park, the free, stroller- and pet-friendly light show that winds through a half-mile of glowing displays — now with a new sensory-friendly hour for families who prefer a calmer experience. It’s the perfect way to end a festive Oak Brook day.
7. Chicago Marriott Oak Brook: Stay close to it all
When your goal is to do everything — shop, dine, see the lights, and still make bedtime — Chicago Marriott Oak Brook makes it simple. The location can’t be beat: it’s directly across from Oakbrook Center and just a short drive from The Shops at Oak Brook and Oak Brook Promenade. That means easy access to favorite restaurants like Antico Posto, Beatrix and Violi, plus a full lineup of shopping and entertainment, like Winter Lights at Central Park, without ever straying far from your room.
The hotel’s newly renovated rooms strike the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. Park once, explore what’s nearby, and come back to a calm, stylish space that makes your Oak Brook weekend feel effortless.
Plan your Oak Brook getaway
Each of these Oak Brook hotels brings its own kind of magic, from cozy pools to festive brunches and twinkling lights. Whether your family’s idea of fun is swimming, sipping cocoa or dressing up for brunch with the Grinch, Oak Brook has something for everyone. This season, trade the traffic for twinkle lights and make a little magic just outside the city.
Here’s more to help you plan: (link to other stories in series)
- Shop, dine & shine in Oak Brook: Get your holiday shopping done and have fun doing it—open-air browsing, 75+ restaurants, and lights just minutes from your hotel.
- Holiday fun for the whole family: Free Winter Lights, Santa brunches, gingerbread workshops, and more ways to make memories in Oak Brook.
This content is sponsored by Only In Oak Brook. Learn more at onlyinoakbrook.com.
