19 Exciting Things to Do in Chicago in Winter
Get ready to discover the best things to do in Chicago in winter with our detailed list of 19 exciting activities!
From light displays and festive markets to iconic performances and unique rooftop experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re wanting family-friendly activities or romantic outings, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide for you to make a Chicago winter itinerary that is truly unforgettable!
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1. The Polar Express Train Ride at Chicago Union Station
Experience the magic of the timeless Christmas story “A Polar Express” on the The Polar Express Train Ride as actors bring it to life on a real train, creating a truly immersive experience.
It portrays the movie of the Polar Express with your golden ticket being punched, hot chocolate being served by dancing chefs, and you are given the gift of the silver sleigh bell!
This is a one-hour train ride and it includes the opportunity to meet Santa.
2. Winterland at Gallagher Way
Immerse yourself in the festive Winterland at Gallagher Way, one of the top things to do in Chicago in winter.
With ice skating and holiday markets, it’s a one-stop shop for winter fun.
This family friendly activity spans across Gallagher Way and extends inside Wrigley Field.
These activities include the Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville and the Gallagher Ice Rink.
3. Christkindlmarkt
Starting November 22nd through December 24th, enjoy the festivities at the Christkindlmarket in Chicago.
With over 50 vendors, indulge in authentic German cuisine, including pretzels, sausages, cheeses, and more.
Enjoy a festive shopping experience browsing handcrafted items, ornaments, and more!
The vendors and hours of operations vary slightly by location. For specific details, visit the website of each Christkindlmarket location provided below.
There are two locations throughout Chicago:
4. Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum
Take a stroll through the enchanting Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum, a stunning 50-acre display that’s perfect for a romantic evening or a fun outing with friends and/or family.
You will walk along a 1 mile-paved path while you enjoy the festive lights, vibrant colors, and sounds of holiday music.
Don’t miss the concession tents for a snack or beverage as well as making smores by their fire!
Running from November 16, 2024, to January 4, 2025, this event now features a new fully ADA-compliant path, ensuring everyone can enjoy this festivity.
Secure your tickets in advance on their website! The earlier you buy them, the more money you save!
While you’re here, don’t miss my comprehensive One Day Chicago Itinerary, highlighting the best things to do in Chicago that are enjoyable all year round – particularly when the weather warms up!
5. The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Join in the festivities at The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, an exciting event featuring a grand parade and a host of activities to begin the holiday season on Saturday, November 23, 2024.
As the largest night time parade in the United States, it brings in over one million spectators, creating a lively and exciting atmosphere!
The event spans the entire day, beginning at 11:00 am with Lights Festival Lane, offering an array of booths and free family-friendly activities.
It concludes with the Grand Tree-Lighting Parade at 5:30 pm that takes place on North Michigan Avenue featuring festive floats, large balloons, live music performance, and more.
6. Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier (Winter WonderFest)
Witness the stunning Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier which needs to be a must on your list of things to do in Chicago in winter.
As the largest indoor and outdoor holiday event in Chicago, it offers an array of activities for visitors of all ages.
Running from November 29th to January 5th, the event operates from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm daily.
Activities include outdoor ice skating, indulging in s’mores, engaging in holiday workshops, exploring local artisan markets, trying your hand at axe throwing, enjoying live music, taking a ride on the heated Centennial Ferris Wheel, fun carnival rides, giant slides, and witnessing the stunning fireworks display every Saturday.
Discover all the exciting activities available by visiting their website.
You can secure your ice skate rentals, axe throwing tickets, and Centennial Wheel tickets in advance on their website.
7. Lincoln Park ZooLights
Experience the magic of the holidays at Lincoln Park ZooLights.
With the dazzling lights providing a cozy and festive atmosphere, it is perfect for a romantic date or a fun night out with friends and/or family.
Running from November 15, 2024, to January 5, 2025, this event offers a range of ticket prices, from $7 to $10, and select Mondays are free admission! Purchase your tickets on their website.
Please note that the Lincoln Park ZooLights is closed on Tuesdays and will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
8. Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic
Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic event is the longest-running lights festival in Chicago and features over two million lights!
It is open from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm on the following 2024 Holiday Magic dates:
- November 22-24 & 29-30
- December 1, 5-8, 12-15, 19-22, & 26-31
Experience the festive ambiance with carolers, ice carving, photo opportunities with Santa, a Carousel (weather permitting), festive food, and more!
You can purchase tickets in advance on their website.
9. Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
Step into a magical wonderland at Lightscape in the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Explore a 1.3 mile illuminated trail with dazzling light displays that are guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.
There are locations spread throughout the trail where you can buy beverages and snacks.
It kicks off on November 15, 2024 and continues until January 5, 2025.
Secure your tickets in advance as they tend to sell out, especially for the popular dates and times.
10. City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Join in the festivities at the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and watch as the city comes alive with lights!
Mark your calendars for Friday, November 22, 2024, and head to the main stage on Washington Street at Michigan Avenue, next to the Chicago Cultural Center.
The festivities kick off with a pre-show from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm, with the tree lighting ceremony and fireworks taking place from 6:00 pm to 6:30 pm.
If you’re traveling to Chicago with kids, check out my post on 27 free things to do in Chicago with kids.
11. Ice Skating at Maggie Daley Park
Get your skates on and hit the ice at Maggie Daley Park for some winter fun.
With the stunning Chicago skyline as your backdrop, it’s the perfect spot for a festive day out with friends or family.
Opening day is November 4, 2024, and it is open 7 days a week with the following time frames:
- 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
- 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
- 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
- 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm
You can reserve your desired date and time on their website.
12. Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago at the Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light event.
This festive celebration showcases a four-story Grand Tree, accompanied by over 50 other trees adorned to represent different cultures from around the world.
It is open until January 6th, 2025, with daily hours from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm.
13. Godfrey Hotel’s Igloos
Cozy up in one of the Godfrey Hotel’s Igloos for a unique winter experience.
Enjoy some warm drinks and stunning views of the city from your private heated igloo on their rooftop.
Choose from various igloo sizes, accommodating groups of up to eight people (small igloos) or ten people (large igloos).
These are in very high demand, so be sure to snag your reservation quickly on their website. Be sure to check out their terms and requirements before booking on their website.
This is definitely one of the more expensive things to do on this list. It can be made cheaper by splitting the cost among your group to make it more budget-friendly.
14. Curling at The Gwen Hotel’s Rooftop
Have a blast playing curling at The Gwen Rooftop.
It’s a unique and fun way to enjoy the winter weather while taking in stunning views of the city.
15. Watch a Show at the Chicago Theatre
Catch an awesome show at the iconic Chicago Theatre!
It’s a must-do if you’re looking for a night filled with entertainment and good vibes.
16. Goodman Theatre: “A Christmas Carol”
Experience the timeless tale of “A Christmas Carol” live at the Goodman Theatre from November 16 to December 30, 2024.
This performance lasts approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.
You can purchase tickets on their website.
Please note that children under 5 are not allowed in the theater.
17. Chicago Auto Show
Attend the 2025 Chicago Auto Show, one of the largest auto shows in North America, held in the McCormick Place North & South Building.
Explore a diverse array of cars from over two dozen manufacturers, showcasing the latest and greatest.
The event kicks off on Saturday, February 8th, and continues through Monday, February 17th.
Check out the Toyota Miles per Hour Run on Sunday, February 9th, where participants race 2.4 mile loops around McCormick Place, aiming to cover as much distance as possible in one hour.
It is suggested to purchase tickets in advance either on their website or at the McCormick Place ticket booths.
18. The Nutcracker at Lyric Opera of Chicago
Experience the enchanting tale of The Nutcracker at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, running from December 6 to 28, 2024.
It’s a timeless holiday classic that’s perfect for the whole family and lasts about two hours.
Purchase your tickets here.
19. Frosty’s Pop-Up Christmas Bar
Get into the holiday spirit at Frosty’s Pop-up Christmas Bar.
With festive decor and seasonal cocktails, it’s the perfect place to celebrate the holiday season.
Conclusion
These 19 exciting things to do in Chicago in winter promise to make your Chicago experience unforgettable!
Chicago winters are notoriously known for being quite harsh with the cold and snowy weather, but with these fun activities, you will have a great time regardless of the weather!
Check out my other Chicago blog posts to help plan your trip!
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