Best Things To Do In Chicago In December

The city of Chicago is one of the most popular places to visit in the United States. Every year, tourists from all over the world come to visit its many attractions, restaurants and other things to do. Chicago is a beautiful city during any season, but it is especially magical during the winter and December is a perfect time to visit the city. There are so many things to do in Chicago during December that it can be hard to know where to start. Here is a list of the best things to do and places to visit in Chicago during the December season.

Admire the Holiday Lights

One of the most magical things to do in Chicago during December is to admire the city’s holiday lights. The Magnificent Mile, one of the city’s most iconic streets, is especially beautiful during the winter. The street is adorned with festive lights and decorations that make it look even more beautiful than it already is. Other places to admire holiday lights in Chicago include the Navy Pier, Millennium Park and the Lincoln Park Zoo.

Go Ice Skating

Nothing says winter fun like ice skating. Chicago has a number of great ice skating rinks for all ages and skill levels, including the Millennium Park Ice Rink and the Maggie Daley Park Ice Ribbon. There are also seasonal outdoor rinks like the one at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park and the ice skating rink at the Lincoln Park Zoo. No matter what your skill level, there’s sure to be an ice rink perfect for you.

Visit the Christmas Markets

Christmas markets are a great way to get into the holiday spirit. Chicago has a number of Christmas markets throughout the city, including the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza and the Logan Square Winter Market. These markets offer a range of festive activities, such as caroling and cookie decorating, as well as food, drinks and handmade crafts and gifts.

Attend a Holiday Show

Chicago is home to a number of holiday shows, from classic holiday ballets to more modern interpretations of the season. The Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker is one of the most popular and is a great way to experience the classic holiday tale. Other shows include the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops, the Goodman Theatre’s A Christmas Carol and the Chicago Children’s Theatre’s A Charlie Brown Christmas.

Take a Tour of the City

Chicago is a beautiful city any time of year, but especially during the holiday season. There are a number of tours that offer visitors the chance to see the city’s most famous sites, including the Willis Tower, the Magnificent Mile and the Art Institute of Chicago. There are also a number of tour companies that offer holiday-themed tours, such as the Holiday Lights Tour and the Holiday Shopping Tour.

Go Shopping

Chicago is a great city for holiday shopping. The Magnificent Mile is one of the best places to find unique gifts and souvenirs. The city also has a number of holiday markets and pop-up shops that offer one-of-a-kind gifts. The Christmas Market at Daley Plaza and the Christkindlmarket in the Germania Club of Chicago are two of the most popular markets.

Experience the Holidays with a Cruise

A great way to experience the city during the holidays is to take a cruise down the Chicago River. Many companies offer holiday-themed cruises that offer festive decorations, holiday music and delicious hot chocolate. These cruises are a great way to see the city from a different perspective and to get into the holiday spirit.

Visit the Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the most popular museums in Chicago and a great place to visit during the holidays. The museum offers a variety of holiday-themed activities, such as a giant gingerbread village and a holiday train display. There is also a “Winter Wonderland” special exhibit that features holiday decorations, lights and music.

Go to a Holiday Concert

Chicago offers a variety of holiday concerts throughout the season. From classic carols to more modern interpretations of the holidays, there is something for everyone. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra hosts a variety of holiday performances, including the Holiday Pops and the Messiah sing-along. Other popular concerts include the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and the Mannheim Steamroller Christmas show.

Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights

The Lincoln Park Zoo Lights is one of the most beloved holiday attractions in Chicago. The zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland every year, with millions of twinkling lights and festive decorations. There are also a variety of special events and activities, such as ice skating, live music, caroling and cookie-decorating.

Conclusion

Chicago is one of the most magical cities during the holiday season. From the festive lights and decorations to the unique holiday events and attractions, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to admire the holiday lights, attend a festive concert or take a holiday cruise, there are plenty of things to do in Chicago in December.