My family and I spent four action-packed days in Chicago this summer and while we saw and did so much in the city, we also really enjoyed the downtime at our hotel.
Choose Chicago hosted my family's visit so I could review our experience. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
When we checked into our room at the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile, and while I was busy admiring our incredible view, my kids discovered something that was, for them, more exciting: the kids bed had been transformed with Le Petit Prince bedding. In the bathroom, there were special toiletry kits and cups for them, too. It was like stepping into a storybook.
And it was a little nostalgic for me. I adored Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's The Little Prince when I was growing up and seeing that familiar character incorporated into our stay brought back memories I hadn't thought about in years. It also sent me home with a plan: This fall, I'm going to read the book to my kids.
The beloved classic story about a young prince's travels through space―a profound philosophical tale about loneliness and loss, and love and friendship.
And so, from the moment we arrived, those children's amenities set the tone for our family-friendly stay at the Chicago Sofitel Magnificent Mile.
FYI: Families who want to lean fully into the theme should look at the hotel's Le Petit Prince family offer (children can also choose a complimentary toy from a treasure chest at check-in and participate in a Le Petit Prince Chicago scavenger hunt). At the time of this writing, the package offers a discount on a second room when families book two rooms; because offers and terms can change, check the current details before reserving.
Our room was spacious, which meant we didn't have to deal with the familiar obstacle course of open suitcases, shoes and all the kid paraphernalia scattered all over the place. We had two queen-size beds, plenty of breathing room and, best of all, a perch high above the city.
The views were amazing. Chicago is an architectural city and from our room, we were able to admire the buildings, the streets below and even Lake Michigan.
The hotel's room categories run from Classic and Superior rooms through an extensive collection of suites. Superior Double rooms, for example, measure approximately 350 square feet and are located on floors 11 through 21, with marble bathrooms featuring separate showers and bathtubs. Rooms also include mini refrigerators and Nespresso machines.
For families, I'd prioritize space and sleeping arrangements when booking and ask the hotel specifically about its family options. Sofitel offers connecting rooms, cribs and bottle warmers upon request and babysitting that can be arranged through the concierge. The hotel also currently offers complimentary stays and dining for children under 12, subject to its applicable terms.
The hotel's French identity carries over to its food and beverage program. CDA is the hotel's French-inspired restaurant, serving breakfast and lunch daily, with both indoor and seasonal outdoor seating. Breakfast options range from familiar American classics to the Sofitel Benedict, while lunch includes dishes like Le Burger. Kids' menus include reliable favorites like chicken fingers and fries, mini cheeseburgers and mac and cheese.
Later in the day, Le Bar shifts the mood to something more grown-up. The lobby-level lounge pairs floor-to-ceiling glass with plush seating, cocktails, shareable plates and seasonal dishes. It's open daily from 4pm, making it an easy stop for a drink or bite without having to venture back out after a long day of exploring.
The hotel's location was one of my favorite aspects of the property. Sofitel Chicago sits at 20 East Chestnut Street in the Gold Coast, just off of Magnificent Mile. It's close enough to Michigan Avenue to put you right in the middle of the action, but its immediate surroundings feel slightly removed from the busiest stretches.
Chicago is such a walkable city and staying here made it very easy to just head out the door and explore. From the Sofitel, the Gold Coast's restaurants and shops are close by while Michigan Avenue is a natural artery for exploring farther south toward the Chicago River and many of the city's best-known sights. Even when our plans took us farther afield, it was always an easy location to return to at the end of the day.
This isn't a sprawling urban resort and if you're looking for a hotel built around a pool-and-play-all-day experience, this isn't it. The Sofitel is a more sophisticated city base camp than a self-contained family resort.
But there's a complimentary 24-hour fitness center with cardio and strength-training equipment, free weights, fruit and water. In-room spa treatments can also be arranged. The hotel offers high-speed internet, business centers and is dog-friendly, if you travel with your furry friend.
The best rooms for a family will depend on your children's ages and how much space you need, so I'd contact the hotel before booking if connecting rooms, a crib, or specific Le Petit Prince amenities are important to your stay. Family offers and inclusions can change, too, so confirm what's available for your dates rather than assuming every themed element comes standard with every reservation.
I'd also request a room on a higher floor if possible. Those Chicago views were such a memorable part of our experience that I'd definitely prioritize them on a return visit.
And while the Sofitel has enough dining and amenities to make staying in easy, the location encourages you to get out and experience Chicago. The best of the city is right outside the hotel's front door.