4 Winter Activities near Chicago
This past year has looked quite a bit different, to say the least.
Luckily with the announcement of the vaccine being distributed to the public, we can expect to slowly but surely shift towards a COVID-free society in 2021.
In the meantime, there are still quite a few ways to safely enjoy the Chicago winter months.
Here are some activities you can test out with your quarantine crew:
Maggie Daley Park’s Ice Skating Ribbon
337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
Located in the heart of downtown Chicago is a seasonal ice-skating ribbon (think of a lazy river but with ice) in Maggie Daley Park. This year you are required to wear a mask and reserve your time on the Chicago Park District website.
While there is free admission into the park, skates rentals are $16, and it will cost $5 to skate if you bring your own. Note that there are lockers on-site as well should you want to store your belongings.
Reserve Here
Eagle Ridge’s Winter Carnival
444 Eagle Ridge Drive Galena, IL 61036
It’s been a long time since I made the trip down to Eagle Ridge Report. Last time, my family rented a condo for a week in the middle of the summer to take advantage of their golf course, however, the resort is also known for its Winter Carnival over President’s day weekend.
This is an annual weekend hosted by Eagle Ridge’s Nordic Center, which transforms part of their golf course to include winter activities such as an ice skating rink, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding.
For those looking for a less physically taxing weekend, have no fear. There will also be smores, bonfires all-day, hot air balloons, ice princess makeovers, turkey bowling, and caricures.
This is the perfect weekend getaway but for a much cheaper price than a trip to Vail or Aspen. Admission is currently free to the Winter Carnival and the resport is currently offering a discount on rooms for President’s day weekend.
Reserve Here
Snow Tubing & Brewery Bus
11931 Fox River Rd. Wilmot, WI 53192
In January and February a bus will travel round trip transportation from downtown Chicago to Wilmot Mountain. The evening will start off with the bus ride, followed by 2-hours of night snow tubing and sitting by the bonfire. Once you are finished the bus will take you to a local brewery for dinner before driving back to the city to finish off the night. This is a perfect activity for those who do not have access to a car or their own transportation.
Note that tickets are $129 and this event is only hosted on Saturday nights. Safety protocols will be in place as each bus is sanitized, masks are required, and 40% of seats will be empty.
Reserve Here
Kaiser Tiger Curling
1415 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
Located in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood is a gastropub called Kaiser Tiger. They are known for transforming their patio into an ice curling rink during the winter. Their website says you can book a lane for up to four people at a time. Each lane costs $50 for every 35 minutes and you can purchase up to 2 hours at a time.
As a precaution guests are required to sanitize their hands before playing and each curling stone will be cleaned between games by an employee.
Reserve Here
Excited to hear more recommendations and to hear about the activities you’ve tried from this list. If you have any comments or suggestions feel free to leave a message below!
