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Where to Find Winter Whimsy and Wonder

There's nothing quite like holiday cheer to warm up the cold Chicagoland air. We've put together a list of local sights and activities, with options available now and into the new year, all worth braving the winter weather to enjoy seasonal fun. Take a look. You might find a new favorite!

Holiday Lights

Allstate CTA Holiday Train and Bus

When you hop aboard one of the decked-out vehicles in the Allstate CTA Holiday Train and Bus fleet, the destination is the journey. Take a ride on the uniquely Chicago mashup of public transit, holiday spirit parade, and citywide charitable food donation. Dates through December 20.

Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum

Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum is a fully ADA-compliant, spectacular light, sound, and color experience covering 50 acres of gardens and landscaping. Electric Illumination Nights feature live DJ music, Dog Admission Nights allow pets to join, and the Vivid Creatures art exhibition displays sculptures of Illinois-native forest animals. Runs through January 3.

Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden

Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden is an illuminated 1.3-mile trail experience featuring artistic light installations, running through January 4. Jingle Jam Family Nights and Adult-Only Cocktails Under the Lights events add a special twist to the already famously fun and scenic outing.

State Street Holiday Lights

Stroll along State Street, that great street, to take in the dazzling sights from Ida B Wells to Wacker. The loop will be lit up with glitz and shine, offering plenty to see on State Street through January 5. The iconic window displays and Santaland in Macy's Holiday Celebrations will be among the festive winter sights to enjoy downtown.

ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo

ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo is a cherished Chicago tradition that transforms the historic lakefront zoo with millions of colorful lights and animated displays set to music. Special events take place throughout the season. Closing January 4.

Festivals and Events

Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light

Visit the 83rd Annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry to marvel at over 50 decorated trees and holiday displays. Throughout the forest of trees, you'll find displays celebrating international seasonal light festivals, including Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, and more.

Winterland at Gallagher Way

Winterland at Gallagher Way is becoming a new Wrigleyville tradition. The festivities are open now through December 31. Visit for whimsical holiday delight, including Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville, Santa's Workshop, the Gallagher Ice Rink, and more!

Winter WonderFest

The family-friendly Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier runs through January 4, offering celebratory holiday displays, themed rides, games, thrills, minimal chill on the indoor skating rink, and more.

Rinks Around Town

On winter days, lace up your skates and hit one of Chicago's scenic ice skating rinks to partake in a classic holiday activity. The Millennium Park rinks offer stunning views of Chicago landmarks and the surrounding skyline dusted in snow. 

McCormick Tribune Ice Rink at Millennium Park
Through February 1
Glide across the ice in the shadow of Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”) on this iconic seasonal rink in the middle of downtown Chicago.

Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon
Through March 8
Nearby, this unique ice-covered ribbon at Maggie Daley Park curves through the park’s whimsical landscape. The path is twice the length of a lap around a traditional skating rink. Make sure to reserve a spot in advance. 

You'll also find charming neighborhood rinks throughout Chicago, like the Midway Plaisance in Hyde Park or the rink at Winterland at Gallagher Way, and there's no shortage of ice skating options along the North Shore.

Holiday Theater Performances

Grab your seats today for limited-time holiday productions, including classics and new standouts.