Emily Girolamo
Chicago offers so many unique activities each season and each neighborhood has gems. Even in the sometimes frosty temperatures, residents and visitors can enjoy winter wonderland activities for all ages. Explore a few of these fun activities near Rogers Park and the Gold Coast.
Winter Activities in Chicago
Strolling:
For a peaceful respite, bundle up and take a winter stroll along the shoreline in Loyola Park. The lakefront becomes serene and cozy when the temperature drops, and the crowds disperse. The ice-capped water and city skyline are a picturesque setting for quiet contemplation.
230 W Greenleaf Ave
Sledding:
The nearby West Ridge neighborhood is home to Warren Park’s sled hill, one of the area’s most popular family-friendly activities for snow days. The park has staircases to make the trek back up the hill easier and a warming house that gives sledders a chance to thaw out fingers and toes before heading back downhill. Once you are done sledding, you can also take a spin on the Warren Park ice rink (pre-registration is required).
6601 N Western Ave
Skating:
Just a short distance from the Gold Coast, Millennium Park Ice Skating Rink is open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Popular with tourists and locals alike, a spin on the rink is a fun way to spend time with out-of-town guests or create a play date for the kids. There is no admission charge, and the rink offers free skating lessons on the weekend.
201 E. Randolph Street
Snowshoeing:
Take a snowshoe adventure on Northerly Island, the human-made peninsula in Lake Michigan. The island has winding nature trails for winter trekking, a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline, and chances to glimpse cold-weather birds in a natural setting. The island offers various festivals and activities during the winter months, such as Polar Adventure Days, when visitors can make nature-based crafts and learn more about winter wildlife, including Siberian huskies, wolves, and birds of prey.
1521 S. Linn White Dr.
Winter Zoo Visits:
The Lincoln Park Zoo is open every day of the year and offers a different view of wildlife in the colder months. The polar bears, penguins, and snow monkeys take a turn in the spotlight as they play outside. Since many animals are moved indoors during the winter, you can observe the zoo’s creatures in a different setting while warming up.
2001 N. Clark St. Chicago
However you choose to experience Chicago’s magical winter season, remember to stay bundled up and plan ahead to avoid long wait times in the cold. Wishing you warm holiday greetings from all of us at TAWANI Property Management.
