There are plenty of things Chicago is famous for, which attracts a lot of local and international tourists every year. It has a storied history and there are many historic hotels in Chicago to enrich your experience in this great American city. Situated on Lake Michigan in the state of Illinois, it tops the list of must-visit destinations when traveling to America, especially when you come in December. The festive season is just around the corner, and the Windy City can help you achieve your ultimate goal to have a delightful holiday. Keep reading this article, and you’ll learn more about the top things to do in Chicago this Christmas.
1. Have an unforgettable Christmas strolling and relishing the food (from USD 79.0)
Take a stroll through the winter streets of Chicago, illuminated for the holidays. On this walking tour, you’ll taste the classic foods and watch the stunning Christmas décor. Visit Millennium Park, see the city’s official Christmas tree, and enjoy ice skating. Relish the delicious treats, including a brownie sample at Palmer House Hotel. Spend time at iconic Chicago attractions such as Cloud Gate and the spectacular open-air amphitheater Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
You’ll also stop by the traditional Christkindlmarket and see the amazing collections at The Art Institute of Chicago.
Chicago Holiday Stroll and Food Walking Tour with Samples
Duration: 3 hours
2. Enjoy ice-skating at Millennium Park
Millennium Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Chicago during Christmas. Why? Because of the ice rink right in the heart of downtown. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a pro or an amateur, you’re welcome to enjoy ice skating with your loved ones because having fun is all that matters during the festive season. What makes it more awesome is that skating here is free. If you do not have your skating shoes, a rental is available.
While having the time of your life, be sure to pause now and then to marvel at the magical lights from the Christmas tree and the views of Chicago’s skyline.
Millennium Park
Address: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602, USA
Website: Millennium Park
Takes place: November to March
3. Have fun at Christkindlmarket in downtown Chicago
A Christmas market is something you cannot miss, and Chicago has its fair share of them. The most popular is Christkindlmarket, a free Christmas event in downtown Chicago. It promises a vibrant and warm Christmas atmosphere as you are walking from one vendor to another. Savor the local dishes, and buy some Christmas decorations or gifts.
Christkindlmarket
Address: Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602, USA
Website: Christkindlmarket
Takes place: November to December
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4. Go watch a Chicago Blackhawks game
This activity is a must, especially if you are a huge hockey fan. Chicago Blackhawks is a professional ice-hockey team whose home base is in Chicago. Mingle with the local people and breathe in the excitement as you witness a spectacular hockey game. Be sure to book your tickets in advance because they are quickly sold out.
Chicago Blackhawks Game
Address: United Center Stadium, Chicago, USA
Website: Chicago Blackhawks Game
Opening hours: Varies
Price: Varies
5. Spend a beautiful evening by visiting Light Up The Lake at Navy Pier
How do you ensure that you are spending a beautiful evening in Chicago? You need to find your way to Navy Pier to enjoy the only Light Up The Lake. This winter event is most loved by families, especially those with little kids. Once you get inside the venue, you will forget about time as you are trying the giant slides, the carnival rides, and the themed activities. If you’re looking for indoor Christmas activities in Chicago, there is an indoor ice-skating rink.
Light Up The Lake at Navy Pier
Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Website: Light Up The Lake at Navy Pier
6. Make a stop at Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
Visiting a museum during Christmas season—why not? Make a stop at Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, which in December will transform into a more beautiful place with its collection of holiday customs along with trees, lighting, and displays. You will gain insight into various Christmas traditions from around the world at this museum.
Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
Address: 5700 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
Website: Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9:30am - 4pm (will also open on Mondays starting December 20)
7. Breathe in the bustling atmosphere of Magnificent Mile
As one of the most bustling areas in Chicago, Magnificent Mile is not a place that you want to skip, especially when it organizes one of the most renowned displays of Christmas lights and decorations for the holidays. You can enjoy various entertainment activities along with a parade during the night of the grand finale. The display of fireworks over the beautiful Chicago River is among the most anticipated events taking place at Magnificent Mile as well.
Magnificent Mile
Address: Chicago, USA
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
8. Marvel at one of the largest fountains in the world
Nestled right in the heart of Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain is not only one of the most popular landmarks in Chicago, but it is also one of the largest fountains across the globe. These reasons should be compelling enough for you to stop by and admire its staggering structure. Especially embracing the holiday spirit, Buckingham Fountain would turn into something remarkable with all the artificial lighting. Wait for the fireworks, and your experience will be complete.
Buckingham Fountain
Address: 301 S Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
9. Walk from window to window of Holiday Windows at Macy’s
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
There is nothing like Macy’s Holiday Windows—entertaining visitors from all around the world since the early 1870s. The holiday windows have been decorated creatively and passionately with everything related to Christmas, and as you are moving from one display to another, you can enjoy magical Christmas stories. Afterward, you can go inside the department store and explore floor after floor to shop for what you are fond of.
Macy’s
Address: 111 N State St, Chicago, IL 60602, USA
Website: Macy’s
10. Be stunned by hundreds of luminous displays of ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo may be one of the most family-friendly attractions in Chicago, but during winter, it transforms into one of the prettiest places and is perfect for people of all ages. Let hundreds of luminous displays all over the zoo take your breath away. In addition to the lights, you can also admire massive animal designs and live music performances. All of these can be enjoyed while you are relishing sweet treats and other delicious dishes served.
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Address: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
Website: ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Takes place: November to January
11. Indulge in a magical evening at The Last Speakeasy at Chicago History [CLOSED]
A magical evening can be yours if you decide to make a visit to Chicago History Museum and attend one of its most well-known events, The Last Speakeasy, which aims to celebrate the anniversary of the repeal of prohibition. One important thing to take note of is that The Last Speakeasy is restricted only for adults. Try your luck at the tables and dance all night long with your partner. You can also indulge in fun games to make your evening even more magical. After doing all the activities, you are welcome to have a tour of the museum exhibits.
Chicago History Museum
Address: 1601 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
Website: Chicago History Museum
[CLOSED]
12. Witness the magic of Christmas on a Segway (from USD 76.0)
Enjoy Windy City’s festive season and visit the local landmarks in Chicago on this 2-hour tour. Get on your Segway and witness the magic of Christmas. From cruising around Buckingham Fountain to posing with the iconic lions at the Art Institute of Chicago, you’re in for an amazing ride. Marvel at the city’s Christmas tree and watch the ice skaters enjoy the free ice rink at Millennium Park.
Gaze at millions of holiday lights decorating the Michigan Avenue Bridge and get a stunning view of the Chicago River. Admire the splendid Christmas decoration and explore Chicago’s open-air Christklmarket.
Chicago Holiday Lights Segway Tour with Christkindlmarket
Duration: 120 to 135 minutes
Have a splendid Christmas in Chicago
The splendid holiday that you have been longing to have all this time can be yours if you make a trip to the USA in December. Make sure to try all of the above top things to do, and this coming Christmas in Chicago will absolutely be a wonderful one.
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