Wintertime in Chicago

Olivia Schuler, Staff Writer

As temperatures begin to drop, it seems like all one can do is sit inside all day. Longing for summer is a part of many people’s past times, but why not try and explore what Chicago has to offer during these chilly times?

Wrigley Field, (1060 W. Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613) is offering a winter wonderland, where you can ice skate, go on bumper cars, and get a chance to walk around the national field. As Wrigley Field describes it, “Get ready for Winterland at Gallagher Way! This year’s expanded programming will offer guests more family-friendly activities and new interactive experiences, along with returning favorites, including Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville and the Gallagher Ice Rink, with the rink now located inside the iconic ballpark. Celebrate the holidays by taking part in the many seasonal programs and activities.” 

The rink at The Ribbon/Maggie Daley Park (337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601), is by far one of the best places to spend this winter. It offers great food, and great prices for lots of ice skating! Access to the park is also open, for the days where it may be a little warmer. Also, the Bean is nearby, and plenty of restaurants keep the area busy and fun to explore, even for a local. 

Looking for a relaxing activity? The Lincoln Park Conservatory (2391 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614) and The Garfield Park Conservatory (300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60624) both have beautiful winter gardens. Entry is free, and the gardens consist of amazing and rare flowers that you could spend hours admiring. Flowers in winter!

Visiting museums is also a wonderful way to fill your winter season with creativity. The Renaissance Society (​​5811 S Ellis Ave, Chicago, IL 60637), which is super close to Whitney Young, is a beautiful museum located inside of UIC College. The Museum of Contemporary Art (220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611) also has great exhibitions to see, and a great restaurant!

Winter may feel long and dreadful, but the city of Chicago has so many sites for speculation! Once we get through winter, the warmer seasons will approach and leave us with even more places to explore!