Now that the holiday season is officially here, wintertime activities are in full swing with no shortage of fun for everyone. Despite Chicago’s reputation for frigid temperatures during the winter months, there are still plenty of exciting activities for all to participate in.
Ice Skating at Millennium Park
One of the most popular winter tourist attractions, ice skating at the McCormick Tribute Ice Rink is an enjoyable activity for the entire family. The rink is open through March 11, 2012 and is open to the public.
Where: Millennium Park between Michigan Ave & Washington St.
When: through Sunday, March 11, 2012.
Hours: Monday-Thursday: 12p-8p; Friday: 12p-10p; Saturday & Sunday: 10a-10p
Admission: Free; Skate rentals available for $10.
Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza
Bringing the traditional German holiday market to Daley Plaza, over one dozen vendors set up shop selling jewelry, ornaments, accessories, sweaters, and more. Feel free to enjoy authentic German beer, sausage, and sweets while perusing the different shops. Children can also visit Santa’s House located in Daley Plaza.
Admission: Free
Where: 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11am-8pm; Friday & Saturday 11am-9pm
CTA Holiday Train
What is better than waiting for the train and seeing Santa pull up in between train cars? Adorned with multi-colored lights, Santa’s train greets passengers with his elves handing out candy canes, holiday music from inside the train car, as well as holiday-themed seats and advertisements. The train will be running through November and December with a select schedule.
To find out when the train line nearest you will be pulling into the station, head to http://www.transitchicago.com/holidaytrain/.
Hours: 1pm-8pm on weekends; 3pm-7pm on select weekdays.
Admission: Normal CTA fare of $2.25 applies.
ZooLights at the Lincoln Park Zoo
A perfect event for all ages, Lincoln Park Zoo’s ZooLights transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland filled with bright lights and displays. The zoo will also feature Santa’s Safari, arts and crafts for the family, ice carving demonstrations, holiday express train, and giant snowglobes. Making this event even sweeter is the free admission and extended hours!
Hours: 5:00pm-9:00pm
When: November 25-27, December 2-4, December 9, 2011 through January 1, 2012. The zoo is closed December 24th & 25th.
Location: 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL
Sources:
http://www.christkindlmarket.com/
http://www.lpzoo.org/events/calendar/zoolights