The holiday season transforms Chicago into a glittering wonderland filled with twinkling lights, snowy landscapes, and an air of cheer that permeates every corner of the city. While the Windy City is known for its iconic skyline, deep-dish pizza, and rich history, it’s also a place that wholeheartedly embraces holiday festivities. If you’re looking to experience the magic of Chicago in December, staying at a holiday-themed hotel is a must. Certain hotels go all out, decking their halls (literally) to bring the holiday spirit to life.
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1. The Peninsula Chicago
Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, The Peninsula Chicago is not just a luxurious hotel—it’s a holiday destination in its own right. Every year, The Peninsula goes above and beyond to create a festive atmosphere, with each corner of the hotel meticulously decorated to radiate holiday charm. Here’s what makes The Peninsula Chicago a top choice for holiday cheer.
Holiday Décor and Ambience
Upon entering The Peninsula, you’re greeted by a grand lobby adorned with holiday decorations that can only be described as mesmerizing. The hotel features a giant Christmas tree, illuminated with thousands of sparkling lights and ornamented with tasteful, elegant decorations. The entire lobby is bathed in warm lights, and holiday-themed floral arrangements bring a natural winter wonderland feel to the space. The festive décor doesn’t stop at the lobby—hallways, elevators, and even the guest rooms are thoughtfully decorated to keep the holiday spirit alive.
Festive Experiences and Events
The Peninsula offers a lineup of holiday events for guests of all ages. One of the most anticipated experiences is the Holiday Afternoon Tea, held in The Lobby. Guests can indulge in an assortment of seasonal teas and delectable treats, all while enjoying the sounds of live piano music playing holiday classics. The elegant setting, combined with festive music, is perfect for families, couples, and friends who want to share a relaxing holiday experience.
Culinary Holiday Delights
The Peninsula’s restaurants are renowned for their high-quality dining experiences, and the holiday season only enhances the culinary options available. The Peninsula’s Holiday Brunch features a delightful spread, including gourmet dishes and traditional holiday favorites. The hotel’s restaurant staff also go the extra mile to infuse festive elements into each dish, from cranberry and spice-infused sauces to special holiday pastries. Guests can also enjoy a limited-edition hot chocolate menu featuring flavors like peppermint mocha and cinnamon-infused chocolate—perfect for warming up after a chilly day exploring the city.
Ice Skating on The Terrace
One of the unique experiences at The Peninsula Chicago is its Sky Rink, an outdoor ice skating rink located on the hotel’s rooftop terrace. Guests can skate against the backdrop of Chicago’s skyline while taking in the views of the city’s holiday lights. The rink is open exclusively to hotel guests, creating an intimate atmosphere away from the bustling public rinks. Skaters can enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts, adding a nostalgic touch to the experience.
2. The Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel
The Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel, is an iconic Chicago landmark that combines historic elegance with modern luxury. During the holiday season, The Palmer House embraces its grand, old-world charm to deliver a uniquely festive experience that’s perfect for those who appreciate classic holiday traditions.
Vintage Holiday Décor and Ambience
Walking into The Palmer House during the holidays feels like stepping back in time to a golden age of Christmas cheer. The hotel’s historic lobby, with its ornate ceiling and lavish chandeliers, is decorated with seasonal elegance. Wreaths, poinsettias, and garlands are tastefully placed around the lobby, enhancing the beauty of its architecture. The centerpiece is a towering Christmas tree, elegantly adorned with vintage-inspired ornaments and traditional red and green color schemes that evoke nostalgia for holiday traditions of decades past.
Holiday High Tea and Seasonal Events
One of the highlights of a holiday stay at The Palmer House is their renowned Holiday High Tea. Held in the elegant lobby, guests can enjoy a sophisticated tea experience with holiday-inspired flavors and beautifully presented sweets. There’s a sense of refinement here that makes the event perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their holiday. The experience is complemented by live music, often featuring classic holiday melodies that elevate the ambiance.
The Palmer House also hosts Historic Holiday Tours, allowing guests to learn about the hotel’s history and its role in Chicago’s cultural landscape while enjoying holiday-themed storytelling. These tours offer an insider’s perspective on the building’s storied past, complete with fascinating tales of celebrity guests, iconic moments, and the hotel’s legendary status.
Culinary Festivities at Lockwood Restaurant
Located within The Palmer House, Lockwood Restaurant offers special holiday menus crafted by renowned chefs. Guests can enjoy classic holiday fare with a twist, using locally-sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors. Traditional dishes are elevated with gourmet touches, from herb-crusted roasts to decadent desserts infused with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The restaurant’s ambiance is cozy yet upscale, making it a wonderful setting for a holiday meal that feels both comforting and refined.
The Magic Parlour Holiday Show
During the holiday season, The Palmer House offers guests an exclusive chance to see The Magic Parlour, a magical show by award-winning magician Dennis Watkins. This intimate experience is especially enchanting during the holidays, as Watkins incorporates holiday themes and stories into his performance, adding a whimsical touch that delights both adults and children alike. The show is held in an intimate space within the hotel, allowing guests to experience a close-up view of the magic and holiday wonder.
3. The Langham, Chicago
The Langham, Chicago is known for its modern elegance and serene atmosphere, but come holiday season, this luxury hotel transforms into a chic winter escape, complete with luxurious festive touches and a serene, welcoming ambiance.
Contemporary Holiday Décor
The Langham brings a refined approach to holiday décor, with a minimalist yet elegant theme that emphasizes subtle festive touches rather than overwhelming ornamentation. The lobby is adorned with sleek holiday decorations that highlight the hotel’s modern architecture. Expect to see beautifully decorated trees with gold and silver ornaments, sophisticated floral arrangements with winter berries, and plenty of soft lighting that creates a cozy, luxurious feel. The Langham’s restrained approach to holiday decor appeals to guests who prefer a sophisticated and modern holiday environment.
Holiday Afternoon Tea at Pavilion
The Langham is famous for its Afternoon Tea with Wedgwood, and during the holiday season, this experience takes on a special festive twist. Set in the hotel’s Pavilion, Afternoon Tea includes an array of holiday-themed pastries, finger sandwiches, and seasonal teas. The Pavilion itself is transformed with elegant holiday decorations, and the atmosphere is set with holiday music that plays softly in the background. Each guest is given a complimentary festive keepsake, adding a touch of sentimentality to the experience. This elegant tea experience is perfect for couples, friends, and families looking to celebrate the season in style.
Festive Flavors at Travelle
Travelle at The Langham offers a festive dining experience that combines seasonal ingredients with a contemporary twist. The restaurant’s holiday menu is crafted by top chefs and features dishes inspired by global cuisines, making it a unique dining option for the holiday season. Guests can enjoy an assortment of holiday-themed cocktails crafted with seasonal flavors like cranberry, cinnamon, and nutmeg, perfect for toasting to the festive season. The restaurant’s ambiance, with its panoramic views of the Chicago River, adds to the sense of celebration, as diners can enjoy the city’s holiday lights from the comfort of their table.
Winter Wellness at Chuan Spa
The Langham’s Chuan Spa is a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation, and during the holiday season, the spa offers special winter wellness treatments. Guests can enjoy treatments that incorporate warming elements and seasonal scents like peppermint, cinnamon, and clove, designed to promote relaxation and bring warmth during the chilly season. The Chuan Spa is particularly popular among guests seeking a wellness retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of holiday activities. Signature treatments like the Winter Bliss Massage and Peppermint Foot Ritual are designed to soothe both body and spirit, making it the perfect way to unwind after a day of holiday shopping and sightseeing.
