Winter Wonderland Destinations in Chicago, Illinois, United States

1. Millennium Park's McCormick Tribune Ice Rink

A popular outdoor ice skating rink in the heart of downtown Chicago, offering a magical winter experience.

Skate Rental: Skates are available for rent on-site.
Illuminated Skyline View: Enjoy a stunning view of the city's skyline while you skate.
Ice Sculptures: Admire the intricate ice sculptures around the rink during special events.

Celebrate the start of winter with a parade and the switching on of millions of lights along Michigan Avenue.

Parade: Watch floats, marching bands, and performers in the annual parade.
Fireworks: End the evening with a spectacular fireworks show over the Chicago River.
Tree Lighting: Be a part of the grand tree lighting ceremony at Water Tower Square.

Experience the zoo transformed into a winter wonderland with millions of lights and animated displays.

Animal Light Displays: See creative light displays representing different animals.
Santa's Reindeer Stroll: Meet costumed characters, including Santa and his reindeer.
Warming Stations: Stay warm at heated stations throughout the zoo.

Indoor winter carnival featuring ice skating, rides, games, and holiday-themed entertainment.

Authentic German Christmas market selling traditional food, drinks, and gifts.

German Food: Taste traditional German foods like sausages, pretzels, and glühwein.
Crafts and Ornaments: Shop for unique holiday crafts, ornaments, and gifts.
Live Music and Entertainment: Enjoy live music, dance performances, and storytelling.

Celebrate the shortest day of the year with a parade featuring giant lanterns and live music.

Giant Lanterns: Watch elaborate lanterns illuminating the parade route.
Live Music and Dance: Enjoy live music and dance performances along the parade route.
Community Spirit: Participate in this annual tradition that brings together Chicagoans.

5K run or walk benefiting the Arthritis Foundation, featuring a post-race party.

Race for a Cause: Support a good cause by participating in this annual event.
Post-Race Party: Celebrate your accomplishment with music, food, and drinks.
Costume Contest: Join the fun by dressing up in holiday attire for a costume contest.

Tropical paradise indoors with various plant exhibits and a festive holiday display.

Plant Exhibits: Explore different plant exhibits, including palms, cacti, and ferns.
Seasonal Displays: Enjoy holiday-themed displays and decorations throughout the conservatory.
Free Admission: Admission to the conservatory is always free.

A million lights transforming the garden into a winter wonderland.

Light Displays: See creative light displays representing different plant life.
Model Railroad Display: Watch model trains pass through a miniature winter wonderland.
Warming Stations: Stay warm at heated stations throughout the garden.

Explore holiday traditions from around the world in this annual exhibit.

Cultural Displays: Learn about holiday traditions from different cultures.
Giant Christmas Tree: Admire a towering Christmas tree decorated with ornaments from around the world.
Special Events: Participate in special events, such as storytelling and crafts.

A grand Christmas tree lighting ceremony in downtown Chicago.

Tree Lighting Ceremony: Attend the annual tree lighting ceremony with local officials and performers.
Ice Skating Rink: Skate on the nearby Millennium Park ice rink after the ceremony.
Holiday Market: Shop for holiday gifts at nearby Christmas markets.

Exhibit of model trains showcasing holiday scenes and traditions.

Model Trains: See intricate model trains running through elaborate winter wonderland scenes.
Holiday Scenes: Admire holiday-themed scenes and dioramas.
Special Events: Participate in special events, such as storytelling and crafts.

Ice skating rink located near The Bean sculpture, offering a unique photo opportunity.

Skate Rental: Skates are available for rent on-site.
Unique Photo Opportunities: Capture stunning photos of The Bean sculpture reflected in the ice.
City Skyline View: Enjoy a view of the city's skyline while you skate.

Indoor winter market featuring local artists, performers, and holiday activities.

Artisan Market: Shop for unique handmade items from local artists.
Performances: Enjoy live music, dance, and storytelling performances.
Holiday Activities: Participate in holiday-themed activities, such as crafts and family fun.

Watch a professional ice hockey game during the winter season.

Exciting Sports Action: Experience fast-paced hockey action.
Festive Atmosphere: Enjoy a festive atmosphere with holiday decorations and music.
Fun Promotions: Participate in fun promotions, such as post-game fireworks and player meet-and-greets.