The Windy City is full of exciting things to do and places to see. Between the architecture, the famous and top attractions and all of the notable landmarks, one of the best things to do in Chicago is to get out and go sightseeing. While this is a great pastime in the summer when the sun is shining and the crowds are flourishing, when the temperatures drop, the snow is falling and you can barely get your fingers out of your mittens to take a picture, sightseeing in the winter isn’t as easy to do. That doesn’t mean that you should avoid Chicago these months though, because the city is especially beautiful this time of year. There are a few ways to make sightseeing in Chicago in the winter just as fun as it is in the summer!
1. Take a tour. These are great year round of course, but when it’s cold outside, hop on a bus or a heated boat tour and let someone else take you around the city! Tours are not just appealing because they shelter you from the cold though. Chicago tours are tons of fun, and while you’re going to be learning so much about the city and seeing all the best sights, all of the tour guides are especially entertaining, and you can take tours when you’re visiting Chicago with friends or family, or when you’re flying solo!
2. Head to the museums. Chicago is home to world-famous museums like the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium and more! When the temperatures are tough to bear, head inside and still get a taste of one of the best things to do in Chicago! If you’re planning on going to Chicago more than once, save all the outdoorsy attractions like Navy Pier, biking around the city and hanging out at Grant Park for the summer, and spend your winter vacation warm in the museums! Take advantage of Chicago deals that get you discounted admission to all of the best museums so that you can get more done on your trip at an affordable price.
3. See a show. The music scene in Chicago is always raging, and all year long some of the biggest bands come here to perform. If music isn’t your forte, head to the theatre. Chi-town is home to several beautiful theatres that host many shows before they make their debut on Broadway, and many of the shows feature well known actors, directors and screenplays. If you’re here for the holidays, check out one of the holiday shows in one of the historic theatres after a stroll down the festively-lit Michigan Avenue. For something even more upbeat, catch the Chicago Bulls or the Blackhawks at one of their home games this winter!
4. See the city from above. Chicago has two very tall buildings you can head to the top of for a breathtaking view of the city. Head to the top of the sixth largest building in the United States. the John Hancock Observatory hosts beautiful views of Chicago’s beaches and the city skyline. This is one of the best views you’ll find in Chicago, and since you’re inside you’ll enjoy staying for a while no matter what season it is. Head to the Signature Room on the 95th floor and sip a cocktail while you drink in the views and warm up before heading back out. The Willis Tower is the other popular skyscraper in Chicago, and the Skydeck on the 103rd floor gives you a pretty great view of the city.
5. Head to the ice rink. Something you can only enjoy in the winter is ice skating in Millennium Park, and the ice rink is situated perfectly in Millennium Park to see some of the beautiful sites around you while you go round and round. Get a picture with the Bean while you’re here, then head over to Magnificent Mile to warm up with some hot cocoa, dinner, booze, partying and shopping. What better way to spend vacation? Definitely consider staying in one of the hotels in Chicago near Mag Mile so that you’re close to all the best things this winter.
Make Chicago your winter wonderland and don’t let the cold and snow stop you from seeing some of the best things this city has to offer!
This article was written by Lizz Riggs, editor of ChicagoTraveler.com.
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