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3 Chicago Must-Dos for Your Big Family Vacation

    Big Family Travel to Chicago

    Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a thriving city with international appeal. Chicago offers so many multicultural activities, attractions, and historical landmarks that your big family may not get everything in with just one trip!

    When we here at SixSuitcaseTravel think of Chicago, we think of three ‘musts’ for your perfect big family vacation: Museums, Sports and, of course, PIZZA!

     

    Museums:

    If your big family is like ours here at SixSuitcaseTravel, we love museums, and Chi-town offers some of the best in the country.  With the ease of travel of the “L” Train, we suggest parking the car and taking advantage of the trains and buses.

    • Museum of Science and Industry will appeal to history buffs with their impressive U-505 Submarine exhibit.  If you do plan to visit more than one museum, SixSuitcaseTravel suggests you look into the CityPASS or Go Card for discounts.
    • No trip to Chicago is complete without visiting Sue, a breath taking T-Rex at The Field Museum. Young and old alike enjoy the most complete dinosaur skeleton on display.
    • Navy Pier is a picturesque environment for exploring and the Children’s Museum will capture your kid’s imaginations! We suggest staying at Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago-Downtown for easy access to the park.  Did you know that you are able to reserve a room with two double beds and a sofa sleeper?  Perfect for your big family’s travel needs!

     

    Sports:

    After a day of learning at the museums, your big family might be ready to cut loose and cheer on their favorite sports teams. Chicagoland boasts some of the most dedicated fans on the planet.

    • Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, is a great place to catch a game.  Even if you are not a huge baseball plan, it’s wonderful to enjoy the history of the game in one of the oldest parks in the country.
    • If you plan to visit Sue at the Field Museum, consider pairing your trip with cheering on the Chicago Bears as they play on Soldier Field.  These two famous tourist spots are close by.
    • Other choices for sports fanatics are Chicago Blackhawks Hockey team and Chicago Bulls, who both play at the United Center.  Check out the Embassy Suites Downtown.  This hotel, 9 minutes from the United Center, offers a room with 1 king and 2 doubles.  Perfect for your big family sports fans!

     

    Pizza:

    New York thin crust versus Deep Dish Chicago?  While in Rome, er, Chicago – we say eat like a Chicagoan.  These greasy, meat filled pizzas aren’t for the weak of heart.  It’s a great way to gather your big family together and celebrate a fantastic day.

    • Uno Chicago Grill, (formerly Pizzeria Uno) is now a franchise, but we suggest you check out the original while your family is in Chicago.
    • Giordano’s Pizza is another great choice.  Our secret tip for big, touring families is to call your order in before hand.  Nothing can put a wrench in a great family vacation like a hungry, cranky clan melting down while waiting for their pizza order to arrive to the table!
    • Gino’s East – Our particular favorite.  Gino’s is a great atmosphere for young and old.  Be sure to write on the wall “SixSuitcaseTravel sent us!”

     

    Whether you take in a museum, cheer on a sports team, or pop Rolaids after enjoying Chicago Cuisine, Chicago is a great choice for your Big Family Vacation! Visit SixSuitcaseTravel for Chicago accommodations for your family of 5, 6, 7, 8. For more Chicago vacation ideas, visit ChooseChicago.com or ExploreChicago.org

    Theresa Jorgensen

    Theresa Jorgensen

    Theresa Jorgensen is a mother to four children including twins. She recognized the necessity for a comprehensive resource of hotels that cater to big families with rooms and suites for 5, 6, 7, or 8 people in a single room while traveling with her own family. In 2008, she established SixSuitcaseTravel to compile a database of such hotels. Over time, the website has grown to include travel advice, itineraries, road trip suggestions, national park guides, and more. Theresa takes pleasure in assisting other big families in creating unforgettable travel experiences.