Chicago Things To Do In December

Chicago is one of the most iconic cities in the United States and a popular destination for tourists all year round. Located in the Midwest, Chicago is known for its bustling downtown, iconic architecture, and rich cultural offerings, making it a great place to spend a holiday. December is an especially great time to visit, as the city has plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained during the cold winter months. From ice skating and winter festivals to unique shopping opportunities and holiday lights, here are some of the best things to do in Chicago in December.

History of Chicago

Chicago is a city steeped in history. It was first incorporated as a city in 1837 and quickly grew to become one of the largest and most influential cities in the country. Throughout its history, Chicago has been a major hub for industry and commerce, and it remains one of the most important cities in the United States today. It has also been home to some of the world’s most influential people, from politicians and entrepreneurs to artists and athletes.

Chicago is also known for its vibrant culture, which has been shaped by the city’s diverse population. Over the years, immigrants from around the world have made their home in Chicago, bringing with them traditions from their native countries. This has helped to make Chicago a vibrant and exciting place to visit, with plenty of unique attractions, activities, and experiences.

Popular Attractions & Activities

Chicago has plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained throughout their stay. One of the most popular attractions is the Navy Pier, which has been a staple of Chicago since it opened in 1916. Today it is home to numerous attractions, including an amusement park, restaurants, shops, and more. Visitors can also take a cruise on Lake Michigan or visit one of the many museums that dot the city.

The Magnificent Mile is another popular attraction in Chicago. This mile-long stretch of Michigan Avenue is home to some of the city’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Visitors can find everything from luxury stores to one-of-a-kind boutiques, as well as some of the best restaurants in the city.

In addition to its many attractions, Chicago is also home to some of the best parks in the country. Millennium Park offers visitors stunning views of the city skyline, while Grant Park offers plenty of green space for picnics, walking trails, and more. There are also numerous beaches along Lake Michigan for swimming, sunbathing, and more.

Unique Experiences

Chicago is also home to some unique experiences that make it a perfect destination for visitors in December. For example, the city hosts an annual winter festival called Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier. This festival features an indoor ice skating rink, an ice slide, holiday lights, crafts, and more. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit!

The Christkindlmarket is another great winter experience in Chicago. This traditional German market takes place in Daley Plaza every year and features traditional German food and drink, as well as handmade gifts and decorations. It’s a great place to pick up unique holiday gifts for loved ones!

Chicago also hosts an annual tree lighting ceremony at Millennium Park every year. This event takes place in late November or early December and features music, lights, food trucks, and more. Visitors can enjoy hot drinks while they watch as the enormous tree is lit up with colorful lights. It’s a great way to kick off the holiday season!

Festive Holiday Lights

Chicago truly comes alive during the holidays with festive lights adorning every part of the city. One of the best places to take in all of these lights is along the Magnificent Mile. Here you’ll find large displays featuring twinkling lights and festive decorations that will make your holiday season even brighter.

Lincoln Park Zoo also hosts an annual holiday lights event. This event features millions of twinkling lights along with music, food vendors, and more. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit!

Unique Shopping Experiences

Shopping is one of the best things to do in Chicago during December. The city is home to numerous stores offering unique gifts for everyone on your list. The State Street district is one of the best places to shop during your visit. Here you’ll find everything from luxury stores to one-of-a-kind boutiques offering unique gifts that you won’t find anywhere else.

Another great shopping experience can be found at Christkindlmarket. This traditional German market takes place in Daley Plaza every year and features traditional German food and drink, as well as handmade gifts and decorations. It’s a great place to pick up unique holiday gifts for loved ones!

Tour Example 1: Architecture Boat Tour

If you want to see Chicago from a unique perspective, then an architecture boat tour is the perfect activity for you. During this tour you’ll journey along the Chicago River and take in some of the city’s most iconic buildings from an entirely new angle. You’ll learn about the history of these buildings as well as their architectural styles from your knowledgeable guide aboard your boat.

The tour usually lasts about 90 minutes and departs from Navy Pier daily at 11am, 12:30pm and 2pm (times vary). During your tour you’ll pass some of Chicago’s most famous buildings such as the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), Tribune Tower, Wrigley Building and more. You’ll also pass through some of Chicago’s most iconic bridges such as Michigan Avenue Bridge and DuSable Bridge while learning about their history from your guide.

At the end of your tour you’ll have a better appreciation for some of Chicago’s most iconic architecture as well as its unique history. To book this tour click here.

Tour Example 2: Food Tour

Chicago is known for its delicious food, so why not experience it on a food tour? During this tour you’ll explore some of the city’s best eateries while tasting some of the best food that it has to offer. Your experienced guide will take you on a journey through some of Chicago’s top neighborhoods where you’ll get to sample dishes from different restaurants and learn about their local specialties from your guide.

The tour usually lasts about three hours and departs from Navy Pier daily at 11am (times may vary). During your tour you’ll get to sample dishes from some of Chicago’s top restaurants such as Italian beef sandwiches from Al’s Italian Beef or deep dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria among many others. You’ll also learn about how different cultures have influenced Chicago’s cuisine over time as well as stories about notable restaurants throughout the city’s history from your guide along the way.

At the end of your tour you’ll have a better appreciation for some of Chicago’s most iconic dishes as well as its unique culinary history. To book this tour click here.

Tour Example 3: Christmas Lights Tour

Explore some of Chicago’s best holiday lights on this festive tour! During this tour you’ll journey through some of Chicago’s top neighborhoods while taking in all of its colorful displays that light up the night sky. Your experienced guide will provide insight into each neighborhood’s history and traditions while you explore all that it has to offer during this special time of year.

The tour usually lasts about two hours and departs from Navy Pier daily at 5pm (times may vary). During your tour you’ll get to explore some of Chicago’s top holiday displays such as those found along Michigan Avenue or at Lincoln Park Zoo among many others. You’ll also learn about how different cultures have influenced these displays over time as well as stories about notable displays throughout the city’s history from your guide along the way.

At the end of your tour you’ll have a better appreciation for some of Chicago’s most iconic holiday displays as well as its unique holiday traditions. To book this tour click here.

Conclusion

Chicago is an incredible destination during December with plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained throughout their stay. From ice skating and winter festivals to unique shopping opportunities and holiday lights, there are plenty of things to do in Chicago during December that will make your visit even more special. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Chicago today!