Things To Do In Chicago December 2023

Introduction

Chicago is a great city with a lot of attractions and activities to do, and December is one of the best times to visit this city. Whether you are looking for something special to do during the festive season or just fancy something new, there is no shortage of things to do in Chicago during December 2023. From outdoor activities to cultural events, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In this blog post, we will take a look at the best things to do in Chicago in December 2023.

Outdoor Activities

Chicago is full of green and open spaces, which makes it the perfect place to enjoy some outdoor activities. Whether you want to explore the city on foot or bike, or you want to take a leisurely stroll along the lakefront, there is something for everyone in Chicago.

One of the most popular outdoor activities in Chicago is the Chicago Architecture River Cruise. This tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and to learn about the city’s history and architecture. The tour is narrated by an expert guide and lasts for 90 minutes.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, you can also take a kayak tour of the Chicago River. You can explore the city from a different perspective, while also learning about the city’s history and architecture. The tour lasts for around two hours and is suitable for all skill levels.

Chicago also has a great selection of bike trails and paths, which are perfect for exploring the city. Whether you want to take a leisurely ride along the lakefront or you want to explore the city’s trails, there is something for everyone.

Cultural Events

Chicago is full of cultural events and activities, which makes it the perfect place to experience something new. One of the most popular events in Chicago is the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Millennium Park. This event is held every year during the festive season and is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit. There are also a number of other Christmas events and activities, such as the Chicago Christmas Market, which is held in Daley Plaza.

If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, you can also attend the Chicago Chinese New Year Festival. This festival is held in the city’s Chinatown and is a great way to experience the city’s culture and traditions.

The Chicago Jazz Festival is also a great event to attend. This festival is held every year and is a great way to experience the city’s vibrant jazz scene. The festival is held over two weekends and features some of the best jazz musicians from around the world.

Shopping and Dining

Chicago is a great place to go for shopping and dining. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or you just want to explore the city’s many restaurants and cafes, there is something for everyone in Chicago.

One of the most popular places to shop in Chicago is the Magnificent Mile. This area is filled with designer stores, luxury boutiques and high-end restaurants. It is also home to the iconic John Hancock Center, which is a great place to get a bird’s eye view of the city.

The Loop is also a great place to go for shopping and dining. This area is full of unique stores, cafes and restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or you just want to explore the city’s vibrant and eclectic restaurants, there is something for everyone in the Loop.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural events, shopping or dining, there is something for everyone in Chicago during December 2023. From outdoor activities to cultural events, there is something for everyone in Chicago. The city is full of green spaces, unique stores and high-end restaurants, making it the perfect place to enjoy a winter holiday.

An Insider’s Guide To Chicago: Things To Do In December 2023

If you are planning a trip to Chicago in December 2023, get ready to embrace the wintery chill in the air and the holiday spirit that permeates the city. Besides the iconic landmarks like the Willis Tower and Millenium Park, Chicago is a treasure trove of hidden gems, cultural experiences, and local history that will make your trip unforgettable. Here is an insider’s guide to some of the top things to do in Chicago this December.

Local Attractions

Chicago is one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in America, with tons of hidden gems that are usually missed by tourists. One must-visit spot is the National Museum of Mexican Art in the Pilsen neighborhood. The museum houses a unique collection of Mexican folk art, modern art, and apparel spanning thousands of years of Mexican history. Make your way to the Uptown neighborhood and enjoy some vintage shopping at the iconic Aragon Ballroom, which doubles as a concert venue.

For a thrilling experience, visit the Union Station Great Hall, the setting for several classic Hollywood movies, and admire the magnificent Beaux-Arts glory and the Daniel Burnham-designed architecture.

Dining Spots

Chicago is the birthplace of the deep-dish pizza, a delicious and hearty local specialty you must try during your visit. Many pizzerias claim to serve the best deep-dish pizza in town, but Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria is hard to beat. You can also explore the vibrant street food culture at the Maxwell Street Market, which serves exotic Mexican, African, and Asian cuisine.

For a fine-dining experience, book a table at Alinea, a three-Michelin-star restaurant that serves avant-garde cuisine in a visually stunning space that will blow your mind.

Cultural Experiences

Chicago is a city that celebrates art, music, and culture like no other. In December, the city comes alive with festivities and events that showcase the city’s rich cultural milieu. Join in the German Christmas traditions at the Christkindlmarket, sip on some mulled wine, and revel in the holiday spirit.

You can also check out the Museum of Contemporary Art, which hosts thought-provoking exhibitions of contemporary art, music, and performance art. If you love music, head down to the iconic Jazz Showcase, where legendary musicians like Dizzy Gillespie and Oscar Peterson have played.

Local History

Chicago has a fascinating and often tumultuous history that has shaped the city into what it is today. The Chicago History Museum is the perfect place to dive into the city’s past through interactive exhibitions and historical artifacts. You can also visit the Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the country, and learn about its century-old history.

For a living history experience, take a stroll through the Old Town neighborhood and admire the well-preserved Victorian architecture and the hidden gardens that date back to the 1800s.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to explore the city’s quirky and unconventional side, head to the Brain Taxidermy (a taxidermy museum) or the Leather Archives and Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of LGBTQ erotica and leather kink culture.

Want to experience Chicago’s famous blues music scene beyond the tourist spots? Head to Rosa’s Lounge, a hidden gem where you can enjoy some of the best blues music in town performed by local artists.

Chicago is a city full of surprises, and these off-beat suggestions will give you an unforgettable and unique experience that is hard to find elsewhere.

Conclusion

Chicago in December 2023 offers a plethora of fascinating experiences and hidden gems that will make your trip unforgettable. From fine dining to quirky museums, there’s something for everyone in the Windy City. Embrace the holiday spirit, immerse yourself in the rich cultural milieu, and indulge in the vibrant history of this beautiful city. Let this insider’s guide be your ticket to unlocking the secrets and wonders of Chicago!