The holiday halls are decked at The Langham, Chicago
The holiday season means excitement, traditions … and stress. So when you think you’ll go completely crazy if you hear “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” one more time, or you’re sick of “texting” Santa about your child’s latest infraction, these ten Chicago hotels come to the rescue with special offers created just for this most wonderful time of the year.
JW Marriott
Your little sugarplums won’t be able to resist the JW Marriott’s “A Night at the Nutcracker” package. As you might guess, it includes two VIP tickets to The Joffrey Ballet’s performance of “The Nutcracker,” plus a swag bag with a signed pointe shoe, magnet, poster and commemorative program. And when you arrive, your tiny dancer will be greeted with 1893 World’s Fair-inspired treats.
Dec. 10-30; rates start at $447 with code ‘PKG’
Hotel Lincoln
Lincoln Park Zoo’s ZooLights are a beloved Chicago tradition, but this year you can supplement them with a stay at Hotel Lincoln. The ZooLights package offers easy access to the zoo’s festivities (it’s just across the street), plus admission to the ice rink and skate rentals for two people. The $10 gift certificate to Elaine’s Coffee Call is just the thing to help you warm up afterward.
Nov. 25-Jan. 1; rates start at $159
Swissotel Chicago
You’ll be humming “O Christmas Tree” on a loop after visiting Swissotel Chicago, which is one of the Chicago hotels hosting Trees of Hope. These stunning trees, sponsored by local businesses, transform the lobby into a winter wonderland. Plus, $10 of each night goes to SOS Children’s Villages Illinois, so you’ll be doing a good deed while enjoying your stay. Swissotel is also home to the Santa Suite, and if it’s good enough for St. Nick, it’s good enough for us.
Oct. 1-Jan. 31; rates start at $149
The Gwen
Santa’s biggest helpers need a break sometimes, which is where The Gwen’s “Naughty or Nice” package comes in. This indulgent stay includes a $100 Nordstrom gift card, complimentary Vosges truffles, a bottle of bubbly, and breakfast-in-bed for two. Now that we think of it, Santa and Mrs. Claus might want to book a room, too!
Dec. 3-Jan. 5; rates start at $363 with code ‘LPE’
Fairmont Chicago
Feel like you’re living out the beginning of “Home Alone” with more out-of-town visitors than you know what to do with? The Fairmont’s got you covered with its “Relatives and Room Service” package, which includes luxury accommodations (put that leaky air mattress away!), plus $25 credit for the on-site bar, restaurants or room service. Maybe peace on earth really is possible!
Available year-round; rates start at $224
Kimpton Hotel Monaco
Black Friday may be behind us, but you still have plenty on your shopping list. The Kimpton Hotel Monaco, which is within walking distance of State Street and the Mag Mile, came up with a great solution with its “Chicago Shopping” package. Not only do you get a discount on their top-of-the-line rooms, but you also receive a $25 AMEX gift card for every night you stay. Now go put it to good use!
Oct. 1-Jan. 29; 20% off Suites and River View Suites with code ‘SHOP’
The Peninsula Chicago
Jack Frost can happily nip at your nose while you glide around The Peninsula Sky Rink, which features festive music and snowflake lighting (and hot beverages and snacks!). The outdoor skating rink is open daily, with proceeds ($15 adults, $10 kids) going to two Chicago children’s charities. It’s a great seasonal addition to the Peninsula’s other kid-focused amenities, including treats, toys and customized classes.
Available year-round (rink dates TBA); rates start at $374
Loews Chicago
The first snowfall of the year has our littles in a state of heightened excitement, but we grown-ups have more “sophisticated” views on the white fluffy stuff. For the snow cynics among us, Loews Chicago has the “Snowed Inn” package, which offers hot chocolate and cookies, a free in-room movie rental, and a pop-up tent and campfire set for kiddos to enjoy. It almost makes hibernation sound fun, doesn’t it?
Nov. 20-March 31; rates start at $199
Embassy Suites
A Christmas staycation might sound like a novelty, but that’s just what Embassy Suites Magnificent Mile’s “Christmas Suite” package has on offer. Enjoy a suite gussied up in holiday décor (including a tree!), Christmas music and a fireplace DVD to up the cozy factor, and hot chocolate and Christmas cookies to make it feel just like home, but cleaner.
Nov. 21-Dec. 30; check website for rates with code ‘PK6′
The Langham
File this one under “If Only.” The Langham Chicago’s “Miracle on Wabash Avenue” package is the ultimate fantasy getaway. Enjoy accommodations in the spacious Regent or Infinity Suite, whose decked halls include a Christmas tree, personalized stockings hung over the fireplace, gifts, butler service and a Christmas Eve dinner for up to eight guests. Cap off your stay with hot chocolate and holiday movies in the hotel’s Cinema Suite. “It’s a Wonderful Life,” anyone?
Dec. 23-29; $10,000
