Chicago has activities galore in its downtown area. The Loop is fun for Chicago residents and tourists alike, regardless of age or background. During the cold season, it's vital to wear warm clothing while exploring downtown Chicago. As long as you're bundled with a few layers, you'll find plenty to do in the Windy City during wintertime.
Summer isn't the only time to enjoy Chicago's parks. Special winter events make Millennium Park a top destination for visitors to downtown Chicago during the colder months. Winter-themed art installations are placed in Millennium Park as soon as the weather gets cold enough.
Millennium Park
55 N Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
312-742-5222
millenniumpark.org
Some of the Windy City's finest museums are located downtown and are always a warm welcome to the frigid weather outside. Families often explore the Field Museum and Adler Planetarium. Dinosaur lovers of all ages go to the Field Museum to see dozens of dinosaur skeletons. Art lovers have two great choices for world-class museums. Next door to Millennium Park is the Art Institute of Chicago, which has hundreds of famous paintings from art history. The Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the largest modern art museums in the world.
Field Museum
1400 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60605
312-922-9410
fieldmuseum.org
Adler Planetarium
1300 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60605
312-322-7827
adlerplanetarium.org
Art Institute of Chicago
111 South Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60603
312-443-3600
artic.edu
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
312-280-2660
mcachicago.org
At the beginning of winter every year in November, the Magnificent Mile celebrates the season with lights. The trees that line the street become white with lights, providing one of the most charming urban walks imaginable. From the Chicago River to Water Tower Place, enjoy one of the most decadent areas of the city. The John Hancock building is located next door to Water Tower Place and offers a lounge area on the 95th floor. If you're of age, you can enjoy a drink with the best skyline view in the city.
Magnificent Mile
625 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
312-409-5560
themagnificentmile.com