It’s no secret, Chicago is a cold, cold city in the winter. They don't call it the Windy City for nothing! But as a local, we learn to endure the harsh winters and even look forward to what the cold weather brings. Just like the summer, there are tons of fun things to do in Chicago in the winter. Below we’ve gathered a handful of both indoor and outdoor activities that are enjoyable, for the winter months especially.
- Go curling on a rooftop or outdoors
- Go ice skating in Millennium Park (open now through March)
- Experience Polar Adventure Days at Northerly Island
- Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo and see the lights!
- Walk the Lakefront Trail with (very warm clothing and) a hot cocoa
- Check out the wonderful wizarding world that is the Harry Potter experience
- Do a foodie tour!
- Roam one of the many world-renowned museums in Chicago
- Dine in an Igloo
If you’re planning on visiting in the near year, check out one of these special events in 2023:
- Chicago Polar Plunge (January 28, 2023)
- Chinese New Year Parade in Chinatown (January 29, 2023)
- Chicago Black Restaurant Week (February 12-26, 2023)
- Chicago Auto Show (February 11-20, 2023)
- Chicago Theatre Week (February 16 – 26, 2023)