Things to Do in Chicago in the Winter

Lincoln Park Zoo

Enjoy the adventures and sights of the Lincoln Park Zoo. This popular animal attraction on the north side of Chicago includes scenic landscapes like savannas, rain forests and other natural environments that provide the backgrounds and homes for the many animals that live in the park. There are a variety of animals ranging from dwarf crocodiles and a red-footed tortoise to Mandarin ducks, Sable antelopes and many more. The zoo also includes a carousel featuring animals that are considered to be endangered species with several of the real-life animals actually in the zoo. Other features include the park's Zoo Express Train that provides exciting rides for children ages 3-12 and restaurants that provide organic, farm fresh foods. You can also find gift shops where you can pick up souvenirs of your visit.

Lincoln Park Zoo
2001 North Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 742-2000
lpzoo.org/

A Zoo to You Sleigh Rides

Take a ride through the countryside with A Zoo to You Sleigh Rides and enjoy the wonders of winter as you glide along the snow-covered lanes. This family-run operation has been providing sleigh rides around the outskirts of Chicago for over 10 years and you will get to ride in an authentic sleigh from Santa's Village that was purchased by the family in 1996 and has been updated, providing a comfortable ride for up to 15 people at a time. You can even have sleigh rides as special attractions for a party, parade, ceremony or just to enjoy the holidays with friends and family. The sleigh ride tours last about two hours and you can purchase additional hours if you desire.

A Zoo to You
Marengo, IL 60152
(815) 568-9052
azty.net/sleigh-rides

McCormick Tribune Ice Skating Rink

Feel the pleasure and freedom of ice skating out in the open air when you visit the McCormick Tribune Ice Skating Rink in Millenium Park in downtown Chicago. Open from mid-November until mid-March, the ice skating rink is free to the public and skate rentals are available on-site. This popular winter skating rink attracts over 100,000 people each year and covers almost 16,000 square feet, with great views of the Chicago skyline. Due to the popularity of the McCormick Tribune Ice Skating Rink, there is usually a line with a short wait to get on the rink, but the fun that you will have is well worth the wait.

McCormick Tribune Ice Skating Rink
55 N Michigan Ave.
Chicago, Illinois 60602
millenniumpark.net/ice/icerink.html