201 E Randolph St
Chicago, IL

There's always something fun to do in Millennium Park—even during winter! Snap a photo by the official Chicago Christmas Tree which stays shining from mid-November until early January. Millennium Park is also home to the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, which is open through March. The rink is free admission. Online reservations are required and skate rentals are available for a fee.

Chicago, IL

Walk on the wild side—from aardvark to zebra. At one of the nation’s few free zoos, visitors can observe their favorite animals in the frosty, snowy atmosphere of Chicago's scenic winter landscape.

600 E Grand Ave
Chicago, IL

The Centennial Wheel will be the first thing that catches your eye at Navy Pier, but there are plenty of other gems to discover here, too, including a gallery of stained glass, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and Amazing Chicago’s Funhouse Maze. While admission to Navy Pier is free, note that fees are charged for individual experiences.

1521 S Linn White Dr
Chicago, IL

Experience the joys of nature at the annual Polar Adventure Days—and it won't cost you a penny! Activities include live animals, Husky team sleds, nature-inspired winter crafts, snowshoes, toasting marshmallows and more.

337 E Randolph St
Chicago, IL

The Skating Ribbon stands as a striking departure from conventional ice rinks, offering skaters a chance to traverse a path twice the length of a typical skating rink. Adjacent amenities offer skate rentals and opportunities to savor a cup of steaming hot chocolate. Reserving a session time is strongly encouraged, pricing ranges from free to $22 per person, depending on date of booking and need for rental skates.

S Western Ave
Chicago, IL

As soon as the snowflakes begin to descend, there's nothing quite like the exhilaration of sledding in the forest preserves to embrace the joy of winter. Sledding hills with lighting are staffed and open Sunday – Thursday: 10am – 7:30pm; Friday-Saturday: 10am – 8:30pm daily when conditions allow.

300 N Central Park Ave
Chicago, IL

The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest buildings of its kind in the world. The conservatory houses more than 100,000 plants representing hundreds of species in its gigantic greenhouse, which is divided into areas such as the cactus-filled Desert House and the lush green Fern Room. Entry is free but reservations are required.