Holiday fun in Chicago the whole family can enjoy
It’s the holiday season and what better way to celebrate than with family and loved ones. Yes, it’s getting cold outside, but there’s no need to stay inside all winter like the Grinch. Get out there, and experience winter in Chicago by doing activities that you can ONLY do this time of year!
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Photo Credit: Todd Rosenberg for Lincoln Park Zoo
If you have never been to ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo, it’s definitely something you should experience. The main attraction is obviously the jaw-dropping light displays, but they also have pictures with Santa, crafts, a carousel, train rides, and much more. The event is free and a perfect winter activity to entertain both you and your children!
November 25; December 2–4, 9–23, 26–31; January 1, 2017
Showshoeing at Morton Arboretum
Photo Credit: Morton Arboretum
Is your family adventurous? Trek through the 1,700 acres of snow at The Morton Arboretum. You can bring your skis for some cross-country action or just wear some boots to explore the grounds. Best route for kids? The Conifer Collection. Rentals are available!
December 5 – March 6; Weekdays: 10am – 3pm, Weekends: 9am – 4pm
Wonderland Express at Chicago Botanic Garden
Photo Credit: Chicago Botanic Garden
A real-life Winter Wonderland right before your very eyes!
Wonderland express is a light show, Greenhouse extravaganza, and railroad garden all in one! There will be a train and landmark exhibition (Thomas the Tank Engine for kids) and a miniature replica display of the city of Chicago! It’s a celebration for all ages!
November 25 – December 15: 10am – 5pm; December 16 – January 2: 10am – 7pm
Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier
Photo Credit: Navy Pier
Chicago’s biggest indoor playground returns for its 16th year! Get your family into the holiday spirit with over 170,000 square feet of rides, giant slides, the Chicago Blackhawks indoor ice skating rink and much more.
December 2 – January 8
Ice Skating
Outdoor Ice Skating is the PERFECT activity for the winter season, mainly because you can only do it around this time of year. Indoor rinks are fun too, but many of the outdoor rinks are in the middle of Chicago’s best parks. If you’re not a pro ice skater, you might be falling a lot, so you might as well have some nice scenery to look at while you’re down there!
- Ice Skating in Millennium Park: November 18 – March 5 (Weather Permitting)
- Ice Skating at Lincoln Park Zoo: November 25 – February 26 (Select Days)
- Ice Skating at Wentworth Park: Opens November 25
- Ice Skating at Maggie Daley Park: November 24
Sledding
Admit it, hitting the slopes isn’t only fun for the kids. Chicago isn’t known for hills or deep slopes, but there are a few spots that are great for sledding.
- Soldier Field Sledding Hill: 425 East McFetridge Drive
- Warren Park: 6601 North Western Avenue
- Horner Park: 2741 West Montrose Avenue
- Humboldt Park: 1400 North Sacramento Avenue
- Dan Ryan Woods: 87th Street at Western Avenue
Any other winter activities that you’re excited about? Let us know down below!