20 Magical Things To Do In Chicago In December: Your Ultimate Winter Guide
Are you planning a trip to the Windy City this December and wondering what to do? Chicago transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering countless activities that will warm your heart despite the chilly temperatures. From dazzling light displays to cozy indoor experiences, there's something for everyone in this vibrant metropolis. Let's explore the most enchanting things to do in Chicago in December!
Introduction
December in Chicago is truly magical. The city comes alive with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a contagious holiday spirit. While the temperatures might be frigid (averaging between 20-35°F), the warmth of Chicago's winter charm more than makes up for it. Whether you're a local looking for new experiences or a visitor planning your holiday getaway, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of Chicago's December offerings. Ready to discover the best things to do in Chicago in December? Let's dive in!
Explore the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
The holiday season in Chicago officially kicks off with the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, typically held the Saturday before Thanksgiving. This spectacular event features a nighttime parade with giant helium balloons, marching bands, and celebrity performers. The highlight? When the million-plus lights on 200 trees along Michigan Avenue illuminate simultaneously, creating a breathtaking display that marks the beginning of the festive season. Even if you miss the festival itself, the lights remain throughout December, making evening strolls along Michigan Avenue one of the most romantic things to do in Chicago in December.
Skate at Millennium Park's McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Nothing says winter in Chicago quite like ice skating with the iconic Cloud Gate (aka "The Bean") as your backdrop. The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink at Millennium Park offers free admission (skate rental is $16-20) and is open from mid-November through mid-March. Skating here while surrounded by Chicago's impressive skyline is an unforgettable experience. For a more intimate setting, try the Pepsi Wave Rink at Navy Pier, which offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city's winter landscape.
Visit the Museum of Science and Industry's Christmas Around the World
Since 1942, the Museum of Science and Industry has hosted its beloved Christmas Around the World exhibit. This December tradition features a stunning four-story Grand Tree surrounded by more than 50 smaller trees decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities. Each tree represents different countries and cultures, showcasing unique ornaments, traditions, and holiday customs from around the globe. The museum also features falling "snow" every 30 minutes, creating a magical indoor winter experience that's perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike.
Experience ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a luminous wonderland during ZooLights, featuring over 2.5 million lights creating enchanting displays throughout the grounds. This free winter event (running from late November through early January) includes holiday activities like photos with Santa, carousel rides, and ice carving demonstrations. Bundle up and stroll through the festively lit paths while enjoying hot chocolate and seasonal treats. The best part? You can enjoy this magical experience without spending a dime on admission.
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Take a Holiday Architecture River Cruise
While most boat tours in Chicago operate seasonally, several companies offer special holiday architecture cruises in December. These heated, covered cruises provide a unique perspective of Chicago's famous skyline adorned with festive lights. Knowledgeable guides share architectural insights while you sip hot cocoa and marvel at landmarks like the Wrigley Building, Merchandise Mart, and the Tribune Tower, all dressed in their holiday best. This is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Chicago in December, offering both education and seasonal charm.
Shop at the Christkindlmarket
No visit to Chicago in December is complete without experiencing the Christkindlmarket, a traditional German holiday market that transforms Daley Plaza into a European village. Open from mid-November through Christmas Eve, this market features handmade crafts, ornaments, and delicious German foods like bratwurst, potato pancakes, and glühwein (mulled wine). The heated tents and festive atmosphere make this one of the coziest things to do in Chicago in December, perfect for picking up unique gifts while enjoying the holiday spirit.
Watch the Nutcracker Ballet at the Joffrey Ballet
For a classic December experience, attend a performance of The Nutcracker by the Joffrey Ballet at the historic Auditorium Theatre. This beloved holiday tradition features stunning choreography, elaborate costumes, and Tchaikovsky's iconic score performed by a live orchestra. The production's magical sets and talented dancers bring the story to life in a way that captivates audiences of all ages. Performances typically run throughout December, making it a perfect evening activity during your Chicago winter visit.
Dine at a Michelin-Starred Restaurant
Chicago's culinary scene shines year-round, but December offers special seasonal menus at many of the city's acclaimed restaurants. Treat yourself to a memorable meal at one of Chicago's 23 Michelin-starred restaurants, where you can savor innovative cuisine in elegant settings. Many establishments offer special holiday tasting menus featuring winter ingredients and festive presentations. From Alinea's avant-garde creations to Oriole's intimate chef's table experience, dining at a top restaurant is one of the most indulgent things to do in Chicago in December.
Take a Food Tour of Chicago's Winter Specialties
Beyond fine dining, Chicago's comfort food scene thrives in December. Consider taking a guided food tour to sample seasonal specialties like Chicago-style hot chocolate, deep-dish pizza, and Italian beef sandwiches. Several companies offer winter-specific tours that include stops at local bakeries for Christmas cookies and cafes for specialty seasonal drinks. This is a great way to stay warm while exploring different neighborhoods and learning about Chicago's rich culinary history.
Visit the Art Institute of Chicago
When the weather outside is frightful, the Art Institute of Chicago offers a delightful indoor escape. This world-class museum houses an impressive collection spanning centuries and continents. In December, the museum often features special holiday-themed exhibitions and events. Don't miss iconic works like American Gothic, A Sunday on La Grande Jatte, and the Thorne Miniature Rooms, which are particularly enchanting when decorated for the holidays. The museum's elegant courtyard café is perfect for a warming break between galleries.
See a Show at a Historic Theater
Chicago's theater scene remains vibrant in December, with many venues offering special holiday productions. Catch a classic like A Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theatre or enjoy a more contemporary show at one of Chicago's many playhouses. The city's historic theaters themselves are worth admiring, with ornate architecture and rich histories. Catching a performance here is one of the most culturally enriching things to do in Chicago in December, combining entertainment with architectural appreciation.
Explore Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier
Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier is a massive indoor winter playground featuring ice skating, carnival rides, giant slides, and holiday decor. Running throughout December and into early January, this family-friendly attraction offers activities for all ages, from toddler zones to thrilling rides for adventurous adults. The festival also includes craft workshops, live entertainment, and visits with Santa. While there's an admission fee, many activities are included, making it a worthwhile investment for a full day of winter fun.
Take a Day Trip to the Chicago Botanic Garden's Lightscape
Just a short drive north of the city, the Chicago Botanic Garden hosts Lightscape, an enchanting evening walk through artistically illuminated gardens. This one-mile path features over one million lights, creating immersive displays, tunnels of light, and seasonal soundscapes. The contrast of colorful lights against the winter landscape creates a magical experience that's become one of the most popular things to do in Chicago in December. The event typically runs from late November through early January, so advance tickets are recommended.
Enjoy Live Music at a Jazz Club
Chicago's jazz scene thrives year-round, but there's something especially cozy about enjoying live music on a cold December night. Visit historic venues like the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge in Uptown (a favorite haunt of Al Capone) or Kingston Mines on the North Side for authentic Chicago blues and jazz. Many clubs offer special holiday performances throughout December, combining great music with a warm, intimate atmosphere that's perfect for escaping the winter chill.
Visit the Garfield Park Conservatory
The Garfield Park Conservatory offers a tropical escape from Chicago's winter weather. This stunning glasshouse features thousands of plant species in different climate zones, from arid deserts to lush rainforests. During December, the conservatory often hosts special events like Holiday Flower Show and evening light displays. Wandering through the warm, humid environment while snow falls outside creates a surreal and delightful experience that's one of the more unexpected things to do in Chicago in December.
Take a Chocolate Tour
December is the perfect time to indulge your sweet tooth with a chocolate-themed walking tour of Chicago. Several companies offer guided experiences that visit artisanal chocolatiers, historic candy shops, and bakeries throughout the city. Learn about Chicago's candy-making history (the city was once the candy capital of America) while sampling truffles, caramels, and other confections. Many tours include hot chocolate stops, making this a warming and delicious way to explore the city during winter months.
Watch the City's Holiday Traditions
Chicago has several unique holiday traditions worth experiencing. Watch the annual lighting of the 70-foot Christmas tree in Millennium Park, attend a Blackhawks hockey game at the United Center (where they often have special holiday-themed events), or check out the festive windows at Macy's on State Street, a tradition dating back to the 1940s. These quintessential Chicago experiences capture the city's holiday spirit and offer memorable moments during your December visit.
Stay at a Historic Hotel with Holiday Decor
Make your Chicago December visit extra special by staying at one of the city's historic hotels, many of which go all out with holiday decorations. The Palmer House Hilton, The Drake Hotel, and The Chicago Athletic Association transform their lobbies with towering trees, garlands, and twinkling lights. Some offer special holiday packages that include activities like ice skating or museum tickets. Waking up in a festively decorated historic hotel is one of the most luxurious things to do in Chicago in December, combining comfort with seasonal charm.
Conclusion
Chicago in December offers a magical blend of winter activities, cultural experiences, and holiday traditions that make the cold weather worthwhile. From ice skating with skyline views to exploring world-class museums, from savoring seasonal cuisine to experiencing unique winter festivals, the Windy City provides countless ways to embrace the season. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or planning an extended stay, these activities showcase the best of Chicago's winter charm. So bundle up, embrace the cold, and discover why December might just be one of the most wonderful times to experience this vibrant city. With proper planning and the right attitude, your Chicago December adventure will create memories that last far beyond the winter season.
