Winter Activities in Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant city bursting with energy and excitement. From its iconic skyline to its world-class theater and music scenes, Chicago is a city unlike any other. It’s also a city that doesn’t hibernate during the cold winter months. In fact, there are plenty of winter activities in Chicago to explore and enjoy. From ice skating to snowshoeing to dog sledding and more, Chicago has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, here are some of the best winter activities in Chicago to check out this season.

Explore the City on Ice

One of the most popular winter activities in Chicago is ice skating. The city offers a variety of outdoor and indoor ice skating rinks, providing locals and visitors alike with plenty of opportunities to glide across the ice. One popular spot is the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink at Millennium Park. This free outdoor rink is open from mid-November to mid-March and is located in the heart of downtown. The rink is open daily from 12pm-8pm and offers skate rentals for a small fee.

If you’re looking for an indoor experience, there’s the Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon. This unique figure-eight shaped rink gives skaters a chance to explore the park’s stunning views of the city skyline while they skate. The park also offers skate rentals, so you don’t have to worry about lugging your own skates around town.

Take a Snowshoeing Adventure

Another great winter activity in Chicago is snowshoeing. There are plenty of places to explore on snowshoes, from quiet nature trails to exciting city parks. The Northerly Island Trail is a great spot for beginners or those looking for a leisurely snowshoeing excursion. The trail is located on Northerly Island and offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, try snowshoeing at the Dan Ryan Woods Forest Preserve. This preserve offers miles of trails winding through wooded areas and meadows, making it a great spot for those looking for a bit of solitude in nature. The preserve also offers plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities, so keep your eyes peeled for deer and other animals that may be out and about.

Experience Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is another great winter activity for those looking for a unique experience. It offers visitors a chance to explore the city from a different perspective and can be an incredibly thrilling experience. One popular spot for dog sledding in Chicago is the historic Cook County Forest Preserve. Here, visitors can take part in dog sledding excursions led by experienced guides, who will take you through the snowy forest landscape and teach you about the area’s history and wildlife.

Hit the Slopes

Chicago also offers plenty of opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. There are several ski resorts located within easy driving distance of the city, many of which offer a variety of terrain and options for all levels of experience. Wilmot Mountain is one of the closest resorts to the city, offering skiing and snowboarding lessons, equipment rentals, and lift tickets. Northerly Island Ski & Snowboard Park is another great spot for those looking to hit the slopes without having to leave the city limits.

Take a Historic Tour

Chicago has a rich history and there are plenty of ways to explore it during the winter months. One great way to learn more about the city is by taking a historic walking tour. There are several tour companies in town that offer guided walking tours of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods. You’ll get to explore the city’s architecture, learn about its past, and get an up-close look at some of its most famous landmarks.

Explore Chicago’s Nightlife

Chicago has an incredible nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. During the winter months, there are also lots of seasonal events like holiday markets, tree lightings, and other festive activities to check out. No matter what your interests are, there’s bound to be something that appeals to you during your stay in the Windy City.

Book an Architectural Boat Tour

Chicago is home to some of the most iconic architecture in the world, and one of the best ways to see it is by taking an architectural boat tour of the city’s skyline. You’ll get up close views of some of Chicago’s most famous structures as your guide explains their history and significance. Most tours last between 90 minutes and two hours and offer spectacular views of the city from the water. Book an architectural boat tour for a unique and unforgettable experience this winter in Chicago.

Take a Food Tour

Chicago is known for its incredible food scene, from fine dining establishments to casual eateries serving up classic dishes like deep dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches. There are several tour companies that offer guided food tours throughout the city, giving you an up close look at some of Chicago’s best eateries and dishes. You’ll get to sample all kinds of delicious food while learning about the city’s history and culture from your knowledgeable guide. Book a food tour to explore some of Chicago’s best restaurants this winter!

Experience Live Music

Chicago has a thriving music scene with plenty of venues offering live music year-round. From legendary jazz clubs like The Green Mill to intimate rock venues like The Empty Bottle, there’s something for everyone when it comes to live music in Chicago. Check out one of these venues for an unforgettable live music experience this winter.

Visit A Museum

Chicago is home to several world-class museums that are perfect for exploring during the colder months. From history museums like The Field Museum to art galleries like The Art Institute of Chicago, there’s something for everyone when it comes to museums in this vibrant city. Spend an afternoon checking out one or more of these institutions this winter in Chicago!

Book a Brewery Tour

Chicago is home to some of the best breweries in the country and there are plenty of opportunities to explore them during the winter months. There are several companies that offer guided brewery tours throughout the city, giving you a chance to sample some of Chicago’s best beers while exploring its historic neighborhoods. Book a brewery tour for an educational and delicious experience this winter in Chicago!

Go Shopping

Chicago has plenty of great shopping opportunities during the winter months, from luxury boutiques in The Gold Coast district to vintage stores on Milwaukee Avenue. Whether you’re looking for designer labels or one-of-a-kind finds, you’re sure to find something special when you go shopping in Chicago this winter!

Conclusion

From ice skating rinks to snowshoeing trails and everything in between, Chicago has plenty of winter activities to explore this season. Whether you’re a local or visitor, there are plenty of ways to get out and enjoy this vibrant city during the colder months. So grab your coat and get ready to experience all that Chicago has to offer this winter!