Things To Do In Chicago Around Christmas

Chicago is the third largest city in the United States, and it’s a great place to visit during the Christmas season. During the holiday season, the city is alive with festive lights and decorations, making it a magical and enchanting place to be. Whether you’re looking to do some sightseeing, shopping, or find unique holiday attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Chicago around Christmas time.

Visit the Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is a section of Michigan Avenue that runs from the Chicago River to Oak Street. The area is renowned for its impressive architecture and upscale shopping, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. During the Christmas season, the Magnificent Mile is even more spectacular, as the entire area is adorned with festive lights and decorations. The area is also home to several Christmas-themed activities and attractions, such as the Chicago Christkindlmarket and the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.

Take a Christmas-Themed Tour

Christmas in Chicago is a truly magical experience, and one of the best ways to experience the city during the holidays is to take a guided Christmas-themed tour. There are several tours available, ranging from walking tours to trolley tours, and they all provide insight into the history and culture of the city and its Christmas traditions. Some of the most popular tour options include the Chicago Holiday Lights Tour, the Chicago Christmas Lights Tour, and the Chicago Christmas Market Tour.

Ice Skate at Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of the most popular attractions in Chicago, and it’s even more beautiful during the Christmas season. The park is home to the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, an outdoor skating rink that is open during the winter months. The rink is a great place to go for a festive activity, as the entire area is decorated with holiday lights and decorations. Skating sessions are two hours long and cost $15 per person (plus a $10 rental fee if you need to rent skates).

Go Christmas Shopping

Christmas is the perfect time to do a bit of shopping, and there are plenty of great options in Chicago. The Magnificent Mile is home to some of the best shopping in the city, with several department stores and luxury boutiques. You can also check out the Christkindlmarket, which is a seasonal holiday market that features unique gifts, handmade ornaments, and other Christmas-themed items.

Catch a Holiday Show

The holidays are the perfect time to take in a show, and there are plenty of great holiday-themed options in Chicago. The Chicago Theatre is home to several seasonal productions, including The Nutcracker and The Christmas Schooner. The Goodman Theatre also hosts a production of A Christmas Carol each year, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra presents several holiday-themed concerts.

Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in Chicago, and it’s even more fun during the holiday season. The zoo hosts several Christmas-themed events, including the ZooLights Festival, which features more than two million twinkling lights and festive decorations. The zoo also hosts special events, such as caroling, holiday-themed crafts, and animal-themed ice sculpture displays.

Go Christmas Caroling

Christmas caroling is one of the most beloved Christmas traditions, and it’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit. If you’re looking for a festive activity, you can join one of several caroling groups in the city. There are also several caroling events, such as the Holiday Caroling Crawl and the Christmas Carols Around the Tree event.

Additional Tips for Tourists Visiting for the First Time

Chicago is a great place to visit during the holidays, and it’s important to know a few things before you go. First, it’s important to dress for the weather, as it can get quite cold in the winter months. It’s also a good idea to bring some cash with you, as many vendors don’t accept credit cards. Finally, if you’re visiting during the Christmas season, it’s a good idea to book your tickets and tours in advance, as many of the popular attractions can sell out quickly.

So, if you’re looking for an amazing holiday experience, look no further than the city of Chicago. From festive tours and shopping excursions to outdoor skating and caroling, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the Christmas season. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer trip, you can be sure to find plenty of things to do in Chicago around Christmas time.