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Guide to River North

Kid-friendly outdoor seating

Outdoor seating where the kids can actually move around without you feeling like you are disturbing every other table.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Chicago Chop House image 1
Chicago Chop House image 2
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Restored brownstone with early 1900s decor and photos of local celebrities creates a traditional steakhouse atmosphere. Live piano music plays softly, adding to the luxurious and old-fashioned vibe. Comfortable seating and personalized touches enhance a refined dining experience.

Staff create a welcoming atmosphere for kids and make celebrations feel special with personalized attention. Meals include kid-friendly options like fettuccine Alfredo alongside adult entrees.

Tables on the patio come with personally printed menus to keep. Staff treat diners like royalty with attentive service. Outdoor seating offers a great atmosphere alongside quality food.

People are saying

"I found the steak to be tender and flavorful."

"They made my son feel special and welcome for his birthday."

"I loved sitting outside under the fairy lights."

Good to know

1

During the 40th anniversary, all food ordered was 40% off.

2

Valentineโ€™s Day celebrations offer special menu items.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during holidays.

02
Bongiorno's Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria image 1

Cozy, family-owned Italian restaurant with small, crowded space and loud atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a pleasant seating option. Known for authentic Italian pizza and pasta with a lively, energetic vibe.

Pizza comes out piping hot and is a hit with kids. Owners check in to make sure orders meet kids' preferences. The Italian beef sandwich gets high praise from young eaters.

Outdoor patio welcomes dogs and treats them like loyal customers. Seating is close enough for a quick walk from nearby spots.

People are saying

"The pizza here is amazing; the staff makes you feel so welcome."

"The food here is amazing, especially the pasta sauce."

"The pizza was a hit with the kids and totally delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located behind the Trump Tower in downtown Chicago.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Reservations are recommended during busy dinner hours.

03
The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago image 1

Upscale hotel with a sophisticated design aesthetic and elegant yet comfortable atmosphere. Rooftop terrace and bar offer stunning views and a lively spot for cocktails and small bites. Central location attracts a bustling crowd, creating a vibrant energy throughout the day.

Staff provide exceptional service for children, including extra sheets, towels, and special requests like honey tea. They also send pre-arrival emails to acknowledge celebrations such as birthdays.

Outdoor spaces include a rooftop terrace with fire heaters for cooler weather and a bar terrace that offers a relaxing spot to unwind. Drinks and food served on the outdoor terrace are quite good.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so kind and helpful."

"The staff here is so accommodating and kind, making it feel really Kid Friendly."

"The outdoor seating is a beautiful, relaxing spot with fire pits."

Good to know

1

Expect a Daily Destination Fee upon arrival, which may not be disclosed during booking.

2

Room service is unavailable after 10:30 PM, despite advertised hours until 11 PM.

3

The hotel is attached to the Shops at North Bridge for convenient shopping.

04
The Royal Sonesta Chicago River North image 1

Hotel offers gorgeous city and river views with a 17th floor rooftop pool and terrace. Interior features a dark, chic design with a fresh, luxurious scent upon entry. Rooms provide a quiet, comfortable atmosphere despite the lively surrounding area.

The pool has a shallow depth that keeps it safe for kids. Staff leave welcome treats like chocolates and notes in rooms. The outdoor area and pool are popular spots for children to enjoy.

A rooftop deck offers a heated outdoor space with a pool and comfortable seating overlooking the city. A small patio and lounge downstairs add more outdoor seating options.

People are saying

"This place is so Kid Friendly; they upgraded our room for our daughter's birthday."

"The beds are really comfortable and clean."

"The staff's attention to detail made our outdoor seating experience wonderful."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $100, and only valet service is available.

2

A resort fee of $32 or more is charged to all guests.

3

The hotel is centrally located near downtown and public transport.

05
Nic + Junior's image 1
Restaurant

Bright, stylish space offers front-row kitchen views and classy indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed up front to more refined in the back dining room, creating a welcoming vibe for drinks or meals. Cocktails stand out with creative, well-crafted options like Negroni and martinis.

Beautiful patio space offers a classy outdoor dining experience. Both outside and inside areas feel very classy and inviting.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the tuna crudo."

"The outdoor seating is beautiful, especially near the river."

"They made us feel so special and welcomed us."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant features a unique fusion of Brazilian and Italian cuisines.

06
Daveโ€™s Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Outdoor and indoor spaces feature colorful artwork and a vibrant, lively atmosphere with loud 1980s rock music. Staff engage actively, often dancing, creating a welcoming and energetic vibe. Seating includes a spacious patio and walk-up counter service.

Staff show attentiveness by quickly handling kids' needs and offering treats like free desserts and early birthday surprises. The atmosphere feels welcoming and suits families well.

Outdoor seating features a colorful vibe with impressive decorations on the patio. Staff assist quickly with orders outside, and there is plenty of space to sit and enjoy the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, delicious, and full of flavor."

"It's a great kid-friendly spot; my children really enjoyed it."

"The spicy chicken here is flavorful and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Daveโ€™s Hot Chicken is halal, making it a great option for those who need it.

2

Parking next to the restaurant is limited, fitting maybe 7 or 8 cars.

3

The restaurant is very clean, including the bathrooms.

07
Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago-Downtown image 1

Large building with a beautiful lobby and spacious, modern rooms featuring minibars and microwaves. Outdoor areas include a heated pool and a patio that offer relaxing spaces. Breakfast serves standard fare with popular waffles and gluten-free options in a large dining room.

Rooms can be arranged close together, which helps families stay near each other. Kids enjoy the heated pool and watching the nearby fire station with its loud sirens. Staff show care by helping find lost items and offering treats to kids.

A beautiful outdoor patio sits next to the indoor pool with couches, tables, chairs, and umbrellas. The terrace offers a relaxing spot to unwind.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast was good and free."

"It's so Kid Friendly, you can walk everywhere and feel safe."

"The outdoor patio is beautiful and a great way to unwind."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $59 per day, and valet service is available.

2

Expect noise from the nearby fire station, especially at night.

3

The hotel does not have on-site parking; valet is the only option.

08
Ema image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers warm, modern interior with two bar areas and outdoor seating including a patio and rooftop. Atmosphere stays lively but not noisy, creating an inviting and relaxed vibe. Extensive gluten-free menu and accommodating options stand out for dietary needs.

Staff handle food allergies carefully, preparing meals to suit specific needs. A great kids menu and thoughtful touches like a fun lampshade keep toddlers engaged.

Great patio offers a lovely atmosphere to enjoy the weather. Outdoor seating feels more inviting than indoor with a well appointed dining area and a relaxed patio vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"The pita bread here is perfectly seasoned and fluffy."

"I found the food to be amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Ema offers an extensive gluten-free menu with many options.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

3

Happy hour features generous portions but a limited list of spreads.

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River North, Chicago

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