Top 10 Things To Do in Chicago In Winter

Winter in Chicago can bring harsh winds and freezing temperatures, but locals and tourists can still find plenty of activities to enjoy. With just a bit of planning and preparation, people of all ages can have fun (and stay warm) during the Windy City’s most frigid months. Here are some of the best things to do in Chicago in the winter.

Visiting Chicago in the Winter

Before you plan your visit, make sure you prepare for the cold! December, January, and February are the coldest months, when the temperatures are below freezing most days. Snowfall is also common, so be sure to plan extra time for getting around the city safely.

Stay warm by packing plenty of heavy layers. A good winter coat, gloves, hat, and insulated boots will help you enjoy outdoor activities and keep you warm as you travel. Despite the cold, there are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself with winter activities in Chicago.

Things to Do in Winter in Chicago

1. Sledding

Even when there’s not a lot of snow in the forecast, the hill by Soldier Field stays ready for sledding during winter months. If there’s not enough natural snow, the hill is covered in artificial fluff! Only plastic sleds are allowed, and you’ll want to call ahead to make sure the hill is open during your visit.

2. Ice Skating

Ice skating is a popular winter activity in Chicago, and there are several seasonal outdoor rinks to choose from. Each rink will have its own schedule and will rely on the weather, so be sure to check ahead of time before you head to the rink.

• Skating at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millenium Park is free (skate rentals available), but reservations are required.
• Reserve your ticket to skate down the Ice Skating Ribbon, a quarter-mile skating path in Maggie Daley Park.
• Check ahead for open skating dates and special events at the Midway Plaisance Ice Rink.
• For a different view of the city, skate four floors off the ground at The Sky Rink located on the rooftop of The Peninsula Hotel in downtown Chicago. Check ahead for reservations, as the Sky Rink is only open on select winter dates.

3. Outdoor Dining

The Windy City knows how to provide comfortable outdoor dining in any weather. Check out one of the many heated outdoor eating spots in the city for a delicious winter meal. Many Chicago restaurants get creative with greenhouses, igloos, and fire pits to keep their outdoor dining spaces open all year round.

4. The Gwen

Combine winter sports with tasty cocktails at The Gwen during winter months. The rooftop terrace is transformed into a curling rink when the weather gets cold, and rink reservations come with a drink to keep you warm while you play.

5. 360 CHICAGO

Discover the best views of Chicago while staying warm indoors at the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck. Standing 1,030 feet above the Magnificent Mile, you’ll have the chance to see how magical the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan are when they’re covered in snow.

While you’re there, you won’t want to miss TILT, the only ride in Chicago that angles you out over the city for a face-first view from 94 floors up! You don’t have to be outside to get your adrenaline moving.

After all those snowy views, warm up at CloudBar. All ages are welcome, so grab a snack and a hot cocoa before heading back out into the winter air. Or stick around for an evening of cozy cocktails and breathtaking views of the night skyline.

6. Snowshoeing

Northerly Island Park is home to all kinds of outdoor activities, including snowshoeing in the winter. You can head out to the peninsula for a snowy walk anytime the snow is deep enough, but be sure to check out the free Polar Adventure Days that happen every winter. You’ll be able to rent snowshoes, see live animals, and check out winter-themed art.

7. Museums

Many Chicago museums offer free admission on certain days during the winter, so be sure to plan your visits accordingly.

• Spend the day viewing the impressive art collections housed at the Art Institute of Chicago.
• Explore the world of natural science and history at The Field Museum.
• For a day of family fun, check out the interactive exhibits at Adler Planetarium, spark scientific curiosity at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, or visit the aquatic animals of the Shedd Aquarium.

8. Lincoln Park Zoo

Bundle up to see the polar bears, snow monkeys, and more cold-weather animals enjoying themselves during the winter at the Lincoln Park Zoo. You’ll also be able to warm up in the many buildings that house animals from warmer climates. If you’re visiting during the holidays, you won’t want to miss ZooLights, when the Zoo is turned into a twinkling wonderland of holiday lights.

9. Indoor Gardens

Stay warm and connect with nature year-round at one of Chicago’s indoor gardens.

• The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest conservatories in the country, with eight indoor display gardens. Tickets are free year-round for Chicago residents, while visitors to the city will pay a small fee during winter months. Reservations are required for all visits.

  The Lincoln Park Conservatory is housed in a beautiful Victorian greenhouse built in the 1800s. Entry is free, with reservations highly recommended.

10. Christkindlmarket

The Christkindlmarket is a German-style outdoor Christmas Market with free admission. You’ll be able to shop for unique holiday gifts from vendors, sip hot cider and spiced wine, and enjoy the festive decorations. Be sure to check the calendar for special events and open dates, and don’t forget to bundle up!

Plan Your Winter Visit

Don’t let the cold winter weather keep you from a visit to Chicago. There are plenty of opportunities for fun year-round! Stay cozy indoors or layer up for outdoor winter adventures. You can enjoy the coldest season of the year no matter what type of activities you prefer with all the fun things to do in Chicago in winter.

Experience the best of both worlds at 360 CHICAGO, where you can stay warm while enjoying panoramic views of the chilly city. Book your tickets now for your winter vacation (don’t forget to grab your coat!)