Chicago Winter Wonderland

Those of us from no-winter states (shout out California!) can truly appreciate the snowy winter wonderland that Chicago is this time of year. Most of my life I thought snow was only something we saw in movies. When I’m not slipping on ice and falling on my face, I do take time to marvel at the scenic portrait a snowy December brings.

Chicago isn’t known for being subtle – the city really takes “Holiday Spirit” to the next level. Here are our picks of Chicago Holiday attractions that are worth trekking through the snow for!

Zoo Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo

Did you know that our very own Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoo’s in North America? It’s also one of the few free admission zoo’s available to the public! Every Holiday Season, the Lincoln Park Zoo adorns itself in twinkling lights. Zoo Lights is available until January 7, 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM. Enjoy some hot spiced wine, live ice sculpting and animals at Lincoln Park Zoo this winter.

Christkindlmarket

A homage to a Nuremberg market founded in 1545, Christkindlmarket is a Chicago favorite. Celebrate Chicago with traditional German drinks, foods and entertainment. They even provide a scavenger hunt to learn about German Heritage available to download on their website. The market lasts in three locations (Chicago Loop, Park at Wrigley and Naperville) until Christmas Eve.

Caroling At Cloud Gate

Let’s be clear – It’s called THE BEAN. Head over to Chicago’s favorite bean shaped mirror this Friday, Dec. 15,  and hear hundred of carolers from across our great city singing some Christmas classics!

Music Box Christmas Show 

Historic and beloved Chicago movie theater, The Music Box, will be playing a double feature (and sing-a-long!) of classics White Christmas and It’s a Wonderful Life all December long. Tickets are $13.00 for a single feature and $20.00 for the double feature.

Ice Skating at Millennium Park

We can’t promise you won’t fall down. Ice skating millennium park is must for Chicagoans and tourists alike. Hit the rink with friends and family at Millennium Park.