Let’s just all agree, this city is absolutely gorgeous year-round. But, trying to find things to do during the winter can pose a challenge to both locals and tourists.
So, what is there to do in Chicago when we are experiencing a polar vortex? I’ve rounded up 5 of my favorite things to do in Chicago to survive the frigid cold:
- Party in an Igloo outside
Locations like The Godfrey Hotel and Chicago City Winery promote winter outdoor living by hosting igloos on their outside patios. Party goers can reserve an Igloo for up to 10-12 people depending on location and experience the Chicago skyline during frigid temperatures!
- Ice skating
Photo by Patrick L. Pyszka
There are multiple ice skating rink options in Chicago and two of my favorite are at Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park.
- Garfield Park Conservatory
Photo and description courtesy of GarfieldConservatory.org
At Garfield Park Conservatory, visitors soak in two indoor acres of green, making this one of the largest conservatories in the nation. Designed by legendary landscape architect Jens Jensen, thousands of plant species are on display throughout eight distinctive rooms. In February, the Garfield Park Conservatory celebrates the Chinese New Year complete with dragons and fun family activities. - Sledding in Chicago
Photo by Chicago Park District
There are so many places in Chicago to go hit the slopes and sled on down with family and friends. We’ve got you covered from Soldier Field to Vernon Hills. - Drink. Whether its hot chocolate or dreaming of summer with Tiki drinks – drinking keeps those warm vibes going.
Photo and description by choosechicago.com
Don’t forget to stop by Bombobar in the West Loop for the most over-the-top hot chocolate out there.Photo and description by choosechicago.com
Dreaming of summer – at the lively River North hotspot, Three Dots and a Dash, tiki torches light an alleyway, leading you to an underground tropical lair. Take a seat at the thatched bar for a new take on classic and modern craft cocktails like “Zombie Punch” and “Bikinis After Dark.”