TLTip:The Christkind is an angel that led parades during the holiday season. Help the Chicago Food Bank provide meals to those in need by donating items or volunteering time at one of their various locations. The owner of this website does not consent to the content on this website being used or downloaded by any third parties for the purposes of developing, training or operating artificial intelligence or other machine learning systems (Artificial Intelligence Purposes), except as authorized by the owner in writing (including written electronic communication). 2 Chicago public schools are closed for the 2021-2022 school year winter break from December 20, 2021 to December 31, 2021, so there are at least two weeks of fun to be had with the kids.. Well go stretches of days, and sometimes weeks, without sight of the sun. Mondays are free. In case youre wondering, Chicago transforms into a winter wonderland during the months of December, January, and February. Love spending time outside in winter? Where: River North: 23 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL, 60654For more information on JoJos ShakeBARs Winter Wonderland. Chicago winters are a magical time of the year. Downtown Chicago has this amazing underground tunnel system called the Pedway. Day 1 Morning Head to Pier Park at Navy Pier for breakfast on the go and old-school thrill rides. Our Watch This, Do That series pairs some great lessons and activities with these great films. Pro Tip: Go early in the season so you don't miss out on this year's, Daley Plaza: 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602, Gallagher Way, 3635 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60613, RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505. kirstenour family likes to climb. Where: 401 E North Water St, Chicago, IL 60611For more information on The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. *Several museums participate in Illinois Resident Discount Days, with free or discounted admission with proof of residency. Add fun this winter break with some of these adventuresome and unique opportunities that can only be done right here in Chicago. Great prices for a city rink! Though its a beautiful city year-round, Chicago winter weather can catch you off guard if you dont pack and prepare adequately. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Kirsten Maxwell and Kids Are A Trip, Inc. with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Create a Bucket Listers account to access exclusive offers and the latest news in your city. The drive-in theaters of the past are making a comeback! Bundle up and see why youll want to explore Chicago in winter. Our personal favorite museum in Chicago, especially if youre visiting with tweens and teens, is the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago. LEGOland Discovery Centerhas several LEGO building areas, a 4-D movie experience, and a couple of rides. Nobody wants to pull up Google maps in the middle of a January gale, because thats exactly when your phone will freeze while youre standing there freezing. We regularly use Expedia.com and Hotels.com to find lodging when we travel. Things to Do in Illinois This Winter And when you need a break from finding gifts for your fam, there are endless dining and entertainment options to choose from, too. As a long time former resident, I have come up with some of my favorite things to do over the long and frigid winter months. 10 Things To Do In Chicago Over Winter Break - The Odyssey Online They do a good job of keeping both clear, especially downtown, but you dont want to take a chance by wearing those oh-so-cute shoes that have no tread. The Museum of Science and Industry should make anyones short list of things to do in Chicago. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. The Exploritorium in Skokie has a play ground, dress up area,and climbing wall. Come hungry and enjoy the Honey Fried Chicken Sandwich, Smash Burger, loaded Fries, or the belly-warming chicken pot pie! If you plan on visiting The Field & the Shedd, along with other Chicago museums and attractions, you should definitely look into a combined attraction discount from CityPass. Found in the heart of Downtown Chicago on North Michigan Avenue, you will find 460 stores, 275 restaurants, 60 hotels, as well as unique entertainment options sprinkled throughout its length. Right next door to Millennium Park is the Maggie Daley section of Grant Park where a seasonal ice-skating ribbon is one of the best winter things to do in Chicago. The perfect place to do so is at the Willis Tower Skydeck. Whether you glide along the iconic Millennium Park McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in the shadow of The Bean or opt for the winding loop at the Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon, ice skating at least once during the Chicago winter season is a must. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. The links on this page are Amazon affiliate links. With frigid wind and freezing temps, locals frequently wonder why they live in a place where it hurts to breathe. Check out JoJo's immersive dining experience for good times and seasonal fare. Skate rentals are available, or guests are welcome to bring their own. Polar Adventure Days are held twice per winter and are a good outdoor activity to look into! If you click on the links and make a purchase, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Find Ideas for Break Here Winter Break Camps Are Still Enrolling! Here are some of our favoritefamily hotels in Chicagowhen spending 3 days in Chicago during the winter (or anytime, really!). Kids Are A Trip 2023. Bring the kids for interactive activities, trains, a maze, and more, or gather the friend group and wander the illuminated villages with an adult drink in hand. Our kids (who are sports fanatics) loved the sports/golf simulator room and the fact that we could order food and drinks right to the suite. Get tickets to Skydeck Chicago. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. Address: 1500 W. Taylor St. Chicago, IL 60607. Luckily, Chicago has plenty for your family to explore including ice skating rinks, special museum activities and plenty of free fun. With the state of travel these days, its important to have some type of travel insurance to cover any unforeseen accidents, illnesses, threats, or cancellations. ), but the biggest thing to remember when it comes to how to dress for Chicago winters is to be sure to account for the snow, cold, and blustering winds. This definitely looks like something fun to check out! ), Have lunch within Catalog and then go to Skydeck, Walk around and take photos in Millenium Park/The Bean, Go ice skating at the Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon, Walk across the street and have dinner at, If you like sports and golf, rent the TopGolf Swing Suite at the Chicago Athletic Association for an hour or two, Have breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe (one of our favorite, Find your favorite spot to have an Italian Beef Sandwich for lunch, Go to the Shedd Aquarium (or to the museum of your choice), Get dressed up and eat dinner out before going to a live Broadway show, Plenty of long-sleeve shirts for layering, A selection of lightweight and heavier sweatshirts, A leak-proof thermos for morning coffee runs. We regularly used companies like Viator and GetYourGuide to book tours when we travel. Volunteer Or Donate To The Greater Chicago Food Depository's Food Drive. Some great places to try out the ice include: Millennium Park, the Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon, or the Rosemont ice rink. LondonHouse Chicago and I|O Godfrey, among others, will be offering the seasonal dining option. If youre visiting a city with multiple attractions, be sure to check out a discount pass, such as CityPASS or Go City. Things to Do with Chicago Kids During Winter Break These glass-paneled boxes give you a clear view all the way to the street. Most people from the Chicago area know about the Wisconsin Dells, and will head there in the winter to visit one of their numerous indoor water parks. Well get a foot of snow in a day, and then when we think winters gone, shell come back for one last hurrah. Where: 800 West Superior St., Chicago, IL 60642For more information on AIRE Ancient Baths. Over fifty trees represent Chicagos diverse ethnic communities, decorated by volunteers who want to share their cultural traditions. Whether youre making the drink at home or buying already-made hot cocoa in Chicago, your kids wont forget to add lots of whipped cream and marshmallows. Our favorites include:Museum of Science and Industry,The Field Museum, The Art Institute, Kohl Childrens Museum, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and the Childrens Museum at Navy Pier. Some of the best places for escaping the solitude of your home and finding other like minded parents are indoor playgrounds. Take a day-trip to the Christkindlmarket. Stay in the loop and travel with us! Things to do in Chicago with Teens and Kids during Winter Pro Tip: Go early in the season so you don't miss out on this year's annual Christkindlmarket mug! If your family knows they want to stay in a vacation rental, we recommend looking at VRBO and Plum Guide. Lace up your skates and take a spin around these outdoor skating rinks. Here, youll find The Game Room (restaurant, bar, built-in bocce bay, billiards, shuffleboard, chess, and checkers tables), as well as TopGolf Swing Suites that can be rented by the hour. There is nothing better then heading downtown on a brisk, snowy winter day, and taking in the spectacular Chicago architecture while skating along to holiday music. The Shedd Aquarium is one of the most popular museums in Chicago. If you cant make it to a movie theater, there are still plenty of new family movies and shows streaming this month. This popular, festive event include many activities: a parade, concerts, and a fireworks show over the Chicago River. Your email address will not be published. There are also light shows one hour before puck drop, food and beverage options (sweet treats and holiday beer huts), and the Dasher Bar. All photos are property of Kids Are A Trip, Inc., unless otherwise noted. 50+ Best National Parks in the World Your Kids Are Going to Love! Travel With A Planis a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Spend a day at Wrigley Field during Gallagher Way Winterland! Did I mention layers? The famed Art Institute of Chicago houses over a quarter of a million works of art that represent more than 5,000 years of human expression. Required fields are marked *. Along with including the citys most exciting year-round offerings, well share our detailed packing list to keep you shielded from Chicagos winter weather. Is anything more festive than sipping a cup of hot chocolate inside a cozy, giant igloo? (Chicago in December weather is the most pleasant of the three.). Weve put together the ultimate winter bucket list, presented by Avail car sharing, so you dont miss out on the best events, activities, and attractions the city has to offer! Tickets include admission to all bars and free breakfast buffets, gift cards to use on the crawl, drink specials, giveaways, and more! Wells Drive to RandolphFor more information on the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade. Where: Whiskey Business: 1367 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622For more information on Boozy Holiday Igloo. Will you be planning a visit during this time of year? And dont miss the Chicago St. Patricks Day Paradeat McCormick Place. Another museum hotspot is the Museum Campus located in the South Loop of Chicago. Where: 127 W Huron St, Chicago, IL 60654For more information on I|O Godfreys rooftop igloos. Do you miss the wonder of the holidays when you were a kid? Where: Millennium Park: 201 E. Randolph St. Chicago, IL 60601For more information on Millennium Park Christmas Tree Lighting. Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon. Our newsletter is sent out quarterly to provide things to do for each season! Get tickets to ride the Centennial Wheel. I hope its obvious that there are tons of things to do in Chicago in the winter. We tend to use Hertz simply for the quality of service. Rally the crew and cheer on the Blackhawks as they tear up the ice during Home for the Holidays. Top 5 Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Downtown Chicago, Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile, Courtyard Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile, Homewood Suites Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile, Famous Chicago Food: 5 Foods You Must Try During Your Visit, 25 Exciting Things to Do in Chicago at Night, Top 5 Kid-Friendly Downtown Chicago Restaurants that Your Family Will Love, Top 10 Things to do at Navy Pier Chicago with Kids, What to Wear in Chicago: A Visitors Guide to Every Season, Our United States Bucket List: 15 Exciting Places For Families to Go, Universal Studios Touring Plan | Tips + Complete 1-Day Itinerary, Disney Cruise Fare: Whats Included and Things You Should Know For Your First Disney Cruise. When it is not below freezing and there is plenty of snow on the ground, one of the best ways to spend the day is on a sledding hill. In fact, I actually prefer the winter months due to the quieter atmosphere and abundance of tranquil dreary, snowy days. These interactive experiences set up a 'museum' of sorts that showcases an imaginative and immersive look into popular TV shows, storybooks, and other interesting topics. 2 days of Chicago Family Fun for Every Season | Choose Chicago #tttparty. Where: United Center: 1901 West Madison Street, Chicago, IL 60612For more information on the Chicago Blackhawks. I know it sounds strange to go hang out at a furniture store, but stick with me. Another fun option is to join the Polar Plunge, an icy dip into Lake Michigan to raise money for Special Olympics. When you need a spot of green, head west to Garfield Park Conservatory. Our favorite things to do on Magnificent Mile include visiting the 360 Chicago Observation Deck, going to The Disney Store, Dylans Candy Bar, and American Girl Place, as well as admiring the spectacular architecture. Many park districts have their own indoor and outdoor rinks as well. Dont miss these outdoor winter activities to do with kids! Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest and largest free zoos in the country. 13 Things To Do Outdoors During Winter in Chicago - Time Out This is the best way to see the Chicago skyline at night! The 109th tree lighting at Millennium Park will take place on November 18 following a special event, but you can stop by anytime through January 8 to see its thousands of gorgeous lights! Chicagos Magnificent Mile is a 13-block stretch of shopping, dining, restaurants, hotels, and attractions. It doesn't seem like winter would be an ideal time to stop by the beach, but it's a unique opportunity to see the lakefront and . Kick off the holiday season with a Chicago traditionthe Thanksgiving Parade! Try Xtreme Trampolines, Jump America, andSky High Sports. If you would like to link to my images, please email me atkidsareatrip@gmail.com. In the greater Chicagoland area there is Great Wolf Lodgein Gurnee and The Water Works, a stand alone indoor water park in Schaumburg. In winter? *Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Go to Navy Pier | Ride the Centennial Wheel. Afternoon December 8, 2022 Winter Indoor Places to Go Outdoor Places to Go Family fun in the Midwest is all about embracing the seasons. These free admission days vary by museum and usually begin in January. Fewer crowds, discounted hotels and attractions, and a laid-back appeal are just some benefits of visiting over the winter season. Volunteering is one of the most rewarding and vital things you can do during the holidays. Celebrate the new year with these exciting kid-friendly New Years Eve parties that you can enjoy virtually. Restaurant patios turn into winter wonderlands with heated igloos, Wrigley Field turns into an ice skating rink, and the CTA trains turn into a magical experience for the whole family. Wells Drive to Randolph, 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue, Chicago, IL, 19111 Oak Park Ave, Tinley Park, IL 60477, Storyville: 712 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, Laugh Factory, 3175 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657, 228 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60654, USA, Impact Field: 9850 Balmoral Ave. in Rosemont, IL 60018, The drive-in theaters of the past are making a comeback! The festivities take place inside Navy Pier's Festival Hall, where kids can visit Santa and enjoy holiday activities. Christkindlmarket is back for 2022! Where: 19111 Oak Park Ave, Tinley Park, IL 60477For more information on Amaze Light Festival. Special holiday displays (Neapolitan Crche), festive decor, and choir performances add an extra festive touch during the season. While we will miss seeing some family members this holiday season, you can still connect with them virtually. Perfectly blending the hustle and bustle of city life with a degree of friendliness that youd expect from a small town, this diverse area is a must-visit metropolitan wonder. Overindulgence and the holidays seem to go hand in handespecially with a decadent cup of hot cocoa in your grasp. Theres nothing better when traveling during the winter than to find a fantastic hotel that is as close to as many restaurants and attractions as possible (to cut down on driving and/or walking in the cold). Whats your favorite thing to do in Chicago during the winter? We connect families with the best local resources, advice, stories, things to do with kids and much more. If your kids like hockey, check out a Chicago Wolves game. Find Camps and Activities for Fun While School's Out By: Katie Mayle Updated: December 12, 2022 Winter Indoor Places to Go Outdoor Places to Go I don't know about you, but my kids are already asking if it's winter break yet. The rinks stay open late and are illuminated with colorful lights once darkness fills the sky. Stroll through the exhibit houses and marvel at giraffes, penguins, gorillas, lions, and any of the other myriad animals that call the zoo home. From museums to outdoor snow fun and nearby states to visit, we've rounded up some of our favorite winter day trips near Chicago to do with kids. Take advantage of this festive display of over 2 million lights, held annually each year at Chicagos beautiful Lincoln Park Zoo. Thank you for your support! Parking lots open up a few hours before the game, and you can even hire Tailgater Concierge to set up your pre-game celebration. It's a must for your winter bucket list. Feel free to give your own suggestions in the comments below! Chicago Botanic Garden is also one of the top things to do in Chicago in Spring. Trampoline parks are all the rage when the kids are out of school. On a budget? Once your kids have their fill of food and toys, head across the street to the Hersheystore and/or Ghirardellistore to sample some sweets. 10+ Family Winter Fun Activities in Chicago - desmoinesparent.com Eating venues here include Shake Shack, Brown Bag Seafood Co., DoRite Donuts, and our favorite, Tortazo (Modern Mexican flavors, fountain Margaritas, and top-notch customer service!). Kids love skating at the Maggie Daley ice ribbon! Additional planning tip: If youre looking to warm up indoors, grab a bit to eat, AND have some fun, head across the street from Millenium Park to the Chicago Athletic Hotel. This year, the iconic market is coming to two new locations in Wrigleyville and Aurora, along with the usual location in Daley Plaza. On an interesting side note, this charming restaurant was Frank Sinatras favorite: imagine that! While the Dr. Seuss Experience was most suited for families with young children, we absolutely loved our time at The Office Experience. One fun winter festival in Chicago is the Lunar New Year Parade in Chinatown. Where: Electric Garden: 324 S Racine Ave, Chicago, IL 60607For more information on the Holly Jolly Bar. Things to Do in Chicago with Kids During Winter Break - MSN From holiday treats to shopping, to so much more, theres something here for everyone! Try the Cheese Ravioli or Chicken Parmesan. Pioneer Court is the epicenter of all the fun, with family-friendly and themed activities, including a holiday market. 8. Things to Do in Chicago in the Winter with Kids, 7) Check out a Festival, Special Event, or Parade, 14) Get in Touch with Your Inner Daredevil, 25 Essentials to Add to Your Family Vacation Packing List, 20 Amazingly Fun Things to do in Cabo with Kids. Head to Water Tower Placewhere you will find the American Girl and Lego stores, restaurants, and shopping galore. With families spending more time at home this year, a two-week break from school can still be a bit overwhelming. Holidays in Chicago: Top things to do and see - Choose Chicago We head downtown to have lunch and see the celebration. Whether you're naughty or nice, it's time to get into the holiday spirit at this iconic Chicago event. You can even dine outside on a rooftop. Where: Millennium Hall: 11 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60602For more information on DIY Christmas Cookie Decorating & Cocktails. The best part is you can bring all of your favorite snacks and wear your pajamas! One of our favorite things to do annually is taking photos with Flytographer. Unwind and be taken on a journey of sensations. Also in town was the Van Gogh Experience, which we were unable to attend. Both are worthwhile investments. Endless stretches of binge watching Netflix, sleeping until noon, eating mass amounts of . Its the holiday season, and theres so much you can pack into winter break! Holiday Break in Chicago: 25 Things to Do Between Christmas and - MSN Check out these road trips from Chicago. As the holidays approach, so does the promise of glorious and well-deserved free time. And if you want to compare different insurance options, use Travel Insurance Master to find the best policy for your group. We make it easy to find & book the best things do in your city, all in one place. Compressing your trip into a mere few days may feel like a challenge, but its possible to see the best of Chicago in winter in just three days. . inspired by the ancient traditions of wellness and relaxation. Thats what I call the perfect day out with kids! With a little planning and a lot of love, lifelong family vacation memories can be made at all ages, stages and places both near and far. Everybody wins! Its a great way to experience another cultures traditions and get out of the house. Absent such consent, users of this website, including any third parties accessing the website through automated systems, are prohibited from using any of the content on the website for Artificial Intelligence Purposes. With dwarf conifers and the Malott Japanese Garden, this Glencoe destination proves theres beauty year round. Ice skating in the heart of a bustling city is a quintessential winter activity and some of the best ice skating rinks are in downtown Chicago. Whether you're naughty or nice, it's time to get into the holiday spirit at this iconic Chicago event. Heres some more ideas for indoor play spaces. Not only will it keep you from getting the cold (or something worse) from that person next to you in line for gluhwein, masks also warm your face. Some of the most impressive exhibits are the Grainger Hall of Gems and the largest T. rex skeleton ever excavated. There are also live shows featuring dolphins, penguins, and even Beluga whales. 50 fun things to do this winter in Chicago! Chicago in Winter (Best Things to Do + 3-Day Itinerary!) Mike ODonnell and Edd Fairman star in Magic @ Lulu's at Storyville, and theyre sure to create a mystical experience you wont soon forget. Free packing list printable when you subscribe for the latest travel updates! Things to Do in Chicago on a Budget Get Out and Enjoy the Snow Can't-Miss Winter Events Illinois comes alive each winter with snowy festivals and plenty of chances to hear, taste and see all the state has to offer in the chillier months. ), Check into the Embassy Suites Magnificent Mile, Explore the pier, ride the Centennial Wheel and have a Chicago hot dog at American Dog & Burger, Walk, shop, and browse Magnificent Mile and have hot chocolate, Go to a pop-up experience (we did the Dr. Seuss Experience and The Office Experience), Take photos and explore the Chicago Riverwalk in winter; stop for hot chocolate at Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop in the Wrigley Building, Have dinner at Lou Malnatis pizza at the Wrigley Building location on Michigan Avenue, Go to the Museum of Science and Industry (We spent 3.5 hrs. Its definitely one of the more popular ways to enjoy Christmas in Chicago. Address: 1400 S. Lakeshore Drive Chicago, IL 60605. Winter Break Camps Are Still Enrolling! Find Ideas for Break Here - Kidlist Yes, Chicago gets frigid in the winterbut that doesnt mean you need to kiss patio dining goodbye until spring! What to Wear in Chicago: A Visitors Guide for Every Season! The Best Winter Day Trips Near Chicago for Kids - Mommy Poppins Its a great way to compare vacation rentals, hotels, and resorts. I should know I wrote a book about it. Chicago is a wonderful city with endless opportunities for entertainment and recreation. Orchids and banana plants will have you feeling downright tropical. Oh, and psstwe LOVE Chicago so much that weve written several other guides to help you plan your trip! It takes place the Friday evening before Thanksgiving in Millennium Park and, like all holiday events in the park, is free to attend. Not only are there commanding views of Lake Michigan and Chicagos towering skyscrapers, including Willis Tower, you can also look down, down, down when you ride Tilt, a glass wall that tilts away from the building. Get a birds eye view of Chicago at one of two observatories. Rewatch some of your favorite family films like Toy Story or Moana. Youll still find hundreds of visitors snapping family photos and selfies next to The Bean (quite possibly dusted with beautiful snow! I havent been yet but it looks amazing! As a visitor to Chicago, you will be awed by any or all of these three magnificent museums: Additional planning tip: Northerly Island Park is a 119-acre nature area and park on Chicagos Museum Campus. Honestly? Download the app to get started. The scenic rink at Millennium Park offers panoramic views of Cloud Gate (aka "The Bean") and the surrounding city skyline dusted in snow. 360 Chicago is perched 94 stories about the Windy City in the building formerly known as Hancock. Want to make Chicago your home base for some Midwestern adventures? This wonderful place is open year-round and is considered one of the most beautiful botanical conservatories in the country. Lace up a pair of skates and glide through the park with breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline lighting the path in front of you. This upscale restaurant located in Chicagos Little Italy neighborhood features a spectacular menu, a romantic setting, and impeccable service. If you end up loving Chicago (most people do), you can always return when the weather is warmer for Chicago outdoor activities (such as the river cruises) you can enjoy year round. With frigid wind and freezing temps, locals frequently wonder why they live in a place where it hurts to breathe. 3. BEST Things to Do in Chicago in the Winter (From a Local!) 10 Essential Winter Activities That Should Be On Every Chicago Winter When it comes to Chicago winter activities, Chicagos splendid holiday events simply have to make the list! The lighting of the official holiday tree of Chicago heralds the beginning of the season. Do you think of Chicago as a summer only destination? Heres a quick run-down on what I call the Big Five Chicago Museums: Adler Planetarium museum is the oldest planetarium in the U.S. and features three full-size theaters and several interactive exhibits. Check out our holiday family guide filled with places to see lights, in-person attractions and plenty of things to do safely at home. Dont miss out on one of Chicagos most unique holiday traditions. 1. Download our app to stay updated on the latest experiences around you! Check out Chicagos Theater in Chicago website to find venues, performances, running dates, and showtimes. Where: 228 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60654, USAFor more information on Espresso Martini Workshop.