No other city shines with the spirit of the holidays like Chicago. Families glide across the ice on scenic skatingrinks, shoppers sip mulled wine as they stroll the charmingChristkindlmarket, and theatre-goers flock to belovedholiday shows. Even ourpublic transportation gets into the holiday spirit, with the holiday train whisking passengers and Santa Claus around the city.
Of course, that means Chicago’s hotels go above and beyond when it comes to decking the halls every holiday season, making for a magical winter getaway. From festive Christmas decor to rooftop igloos to special seasonal deals, these Chicago hotels are guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit — and maybe even inspire a new annual tradition.
Here are just a few of the Chicago hotels that are going all out for the holiday season this year.
Gather around the Grand Tree at the historic Palmer House Hotel
Chicago’s Palmer House, established in 1871, is one of Chicago’s oldest hotels and known for its gorgeous interior and long list of famous guests. During the holiday season, guests gather around the Grand Tree in the gilded lobby for cocktails and bites at the elegant bar. Don’t miss the annual events like the Tree Lighting Ceremony or the Tuba Christmas concert.
Stay the night in a snow globe at the Four Seasons Chicago
Opt for the Winter Wonderland Turndown service at theFour Seasons Chicago and your guest room will morph into a mini snow globe complete with indoor snowballs. Other fun and festive add-ons include cookie decorating kits, a gift-wrapping bar in the lobby, a mailbox to write letters to the North Pole, breakfast with Santa, holiday afternoon tea, and thoughtful decor throughout the hotel.
Enjoy the “après ski” scene at Fairmont Chicago’s pop-up lodge
Located at the Fairmont Chicago, The Fairmont Lodge immerses guests in the magic of a snowy wonderland in the heart of downtown Chicago. Evergreen swag, twinkling lights, skis, and sleds adorn the cozy lodge, where guests are invited to gather with friends and family and enjoy sips from the holiday-themed cocktail menu. Fuel up with fondue and s’mores then grab your skates and head to nearby Millennium Park to hit the ice.
Explore more: Discover the best seasonal ice skating rinks in Chicago.
Check into Santa’s Chicago Suite at the Swissotel Chicago
When Santa zooms into Chicago aboard his enchanted sleigh, he spends the night at the Santa Suite in the Swissotel Chicago. Book the suite for a day to enjoy the elegant decorations (including 17 Christmas trees) and stunning waterfront views, plus unlimited hot cocoa, champagne, holiday treats, crafts, cookie decorating, and a visit from Santa himself. Or stay overnight with the holiday penthouse hideaway or the elf decorated room package.
Gather around the fireplace at the Sophy Hyde Park
Spend a winter weekend at the boutiqueSophy Hotel in Hyde Park. TheSO-Cozy package invites guests to cozy up with two keepsake mugs, spiked hot toddies, a food and beverage credit to the acclaimed Mesler Kitchen, and admission for two to the Museum of Science and Industry to see the festive Christmas Around the World exhibit. After a long day of holiday fun in the city, savor moments with friends and family around the hotel’s lobby, where a large double-sided fireplace sets the holiday mood.
Sleep in a swanky decorated suite at The Langham Chicago
The Langham Chicago‘s lobby drips in luxurious gold and silver-hued decor during the holiday season. Book the Oh Christmas Tree package, and you’ll find an elegantly decorated Christmas tree placed in your suite upon arrival, plus champagne cocktails, a charcuterie board, and more. The hotel will also be celebrating the season with a tree-lighting ceremony, festive tea parties, visits from Santa, and more.
Explore an enchanted winter forest at Sofitel Chicago
Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile transforms into an enchanted forest this holiday season, with softly lit evergreens and elegant, French-inspired holiday decor filling the grand lobby and beyond. After wrapping up your holiday shopping nearby along The Magnificent Mile, you’ll find holiday cheer on the cocktail menu at the in-hotelLe Bar. Or cozy up with hot cocoa snuggled under a blanket by a fire pit on the always-bustling outdoor patio,La Terrace.
Sip inside a snow globe on the terrace of Hotel Zachary
Toast to the holidays inside a life-size snow globe on the terrace ofHotel Zachary, the boutique hotel situated steps away from Wrigley Field. Each globe has its own festive vibe (choose from the Cozy Cabin, Vintage Christmas, and Après Ski themes) paired with treats like boozy hot chocolate, a s’mores tower, mulled apple cider, and more.
Afterward, head across the street to explore Winterland at Gallagher Way, home of the beloved Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville.
Pamper yourself with a holiday-inspired spa treatment at The Ritz-Carlton
If you need a little holiday de-stressing, head to the Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, a luxurious urban retreat in the heart of Chicago, where unique seasonal spa treatments, like the Ultimate Peppermint Pedicure and the Winter Wassail Spice Massage are designed to leave guests feeling cozy and rejuvenated. The luxurious hotel will also be hosting a festive holiday tea on weekends throughout the season.
Warm up in a chalet-style hut at Viceroy Chicago
Enjoy a cozy date night or festive gathering with friends during the Winter Hit Experience. Located on the Somerset patio atViceroy Chicago, these seasonal, chalet-style huts offer a perfect winter getaway in the charming Gold Coast. Choose the Campfire Hut for spiked hot cocoa and a s’mores kit. Or make it a date night in the Romance Hut with cheese and chocolate fondue paired with champagne. The hotel restaurant will also be hosting a Christmas Eve dinner and a Christmas Day brunch.
