Chicago Marriott and Nickelodeon partner for unforgettable family getaway

Your kids have a problem, and it’s in the TV. They squeal with delight at the sight of SpongeBob and lose their minds when Big Time Rush comes on air. Now, Marriott and Nickelodeon are partnering to make your kids’ dreams come to life (and likely give you an extended headache with all the screaming, but it’s not about you, it’s about the kids).

The Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile is located within walking distance to the best shopping, restaurants, and attractions in downtown Chicago. Of course, it’s also near Navy Pier, so you can take your kids (and their SpongeBob dolls) to the famous ferris wheel for an afternoon. Book the “Nickelodeon Your Stay” package and your kids will enjoy:

  • Free Nickelodeon activity book
  • Silicone bracelet with access to a secret game website
  • Nickelodeon bag with sunglasses
  • Build Your Own SpongeBob
  • Splash ball
  • Turndown service with pillowcase and bedtime book

Be sure that promotional code NK6 appears in the Corporate/Promotional code box when making your online reservation.

As for you? We’re happy to report that the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile has a lobby bar with 24 beer taps to choose from and a great top shelf liquor for those who need a something stronger than a beer.

Illinois Office of Tourism re-launches “Kidventure” – the one-stop planning tool for Illinois family vacations

The Illinois Office of Tourism just re-launched their family travel planning site. Kidventures is a one-stop shopping tool where families can plan their trip to Illinois. The content on the site is perfect for Illinois residents and families coming to visit the state.

The content is split up into several categories – what to do, what to eat and where to stay. Each section provides a decent amount of ideas for each region of the state, offering only the most kid-friendly locations available. I found the “where to eat” section to be pretty decent – but lacking in some of the most popular Illinois family-friendly restaurants like Superdawg and the Vienna Beef factory cafe.

Kidventures is just one small part of a larger collection of fantastic Illinois travel resources. Kidventures also offers an activities calendar and a lineup of travel with kid tips.