Top 5 Winter Activities In The Windy City

Are you tired of being indoors? Many people may wonder what there is to do in Chicago when it feels so cold outside. If you’re looking for some fun things to do in Chicago this season, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of five activities below to make the most of this winter weather.

There are many things to do in a big city such as Chicago and we’ve narrowed it down to these top five fun activities. Last year, in 2020, the options were somewhat limited, but now that more people are vaccinated and are taking the necessary precautions, it is time to enjoy the winter months and have some fun all season long.

For many of these activities, you will have to show proof of vaccination before entering. As the Omicron variant is spreading throughout the world, Chicago is trying to slow the spread of COVID cases and ensure that everyone can have a safe yet fun experience. 

Go Ice Skating

When’s the last time you went ice skating? There is no doubt that the best time to go ice skating is during the winter where you wear many layers and slip around the ice rink. This special tradition in Chicago allows you to go ice skating for free! There are three traditional outdoor rinks that you can choose from, the McCormick Tribune ice rink, the Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park or The Rink at Gallagher Way. While heading to these ice skating rinks, you can also take in the beautiful sights of Chicago in the winter.

The McCormick Tribune ice rink is located within Millenium Park and is a must-visit for many people! See the impressive Chicago downtown skyline and simply feel mesmerized. You can visit this ice skating rink from now up until March 6th! Choose the best date for you and make reservations online. Afterward, you can relax in Millenium Park with a cup of hot cocoa in your hand as you take in the chilly weather, Chicago style!

In Maggie Daley Park, there is a skating ribbon in which you can ice skate around in which is actually twice the length of a regular ice skating rink. You can also go on a rock-climbing wall as well! This ice skating rink is open from today up until March 13, 2022, and you can also make your reservation online for your desired day and time.

Try Out Sledding

Are you looking for a free activity where all of your friends and family can join in? Time to grab your warm coat, your snow boots, your favorite people, and look for some snowy hills where you can sled on. No need to look for any resorts, there are plenty of sledding locations within Chicago. 

Dan Ryan Woods is the perfect place to start off at, while heading up to the top of the hill you can actually catch a glimpse of the Chicago skyline.  You can take a while to gaze at this beautiful city, take loads of pictures with any of the friends or family that you may have brought on the adventure with you, and then enjoy it even more on your sled ride down! 

Immersive Van Gogh Experience 

Are you looking for a cultural and artistic experience? Until February 14th, 2022, you can check out the immersive Van Gogh experience at Lighthouse ArtSpace at Germania Club. You will be able to see the Starry Night amongst many other creative works from Van Gogh in a unique and creative way that much of the public eye has yet to see. This 35-minute show will bring a whole different side of Van Gogh that you may have never experienced before. 

Get ready to have fun will also taking safety precautions in one of the most unique indoor attractions. As the city of Chicago strives to ensure that you will be safe and protected against Covid-19, before heading out to this experience, make sure to bring your vaccination card along with you as it will be required to enter this exhibit. Although booster shots are not required to enter, you must be fully vaccinated with both doses. Purchase your tickets ahead of time and get ready for a different experience in Chicago.  

Go Shopping

In need of some retail therapy? Chicago is home to Macy’s, luxury brands, amongst other popular department stores. This is the best place to do some shopping with your friends and family or even treat yourself to a little gift! This is the perfect plan whenever the Chicago weather might become a little too chilly for you and you feel like running indoors. 

State Street and The Magnificent Mile are two of the most popular areas to do your shopping in the windy city. At The Magnificent Mile, you can find more than 450 stores, including popular department stores, boutiques, jewelry stores, and so much more! It includes three shopping centers with each much different from the other. It is definitely a must-do when it comes to shopping, especially during the winter, in Chicago.

There are many fun winter activities and fun places in Chicago, whether going outside and going ice skating or sitting indoors and drinking hot chocolate. Chicago is a special place to be as you have so many different options and many different things to do in this windy city. Although you will be out in the fresh air and enjoying the city, make sure to always have your mask on and hand sanitizer with you at all times. Wash your hands frequently and social distance when possible. Enjoy your getaway while also taking care of yourself and your community. 

These are just a few of the fun things you can do in Chicago during the winter. These activities make for a fun-filled holiday in Chicago. If you are looking for more information about the windy city, Chicago, you can check out our blog! As a top Chicago real estate brokerage, we have many resources regarding Chicago and the many amazing things to offer us all.