Let’s admit that Chicago winters are brutal, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t nothing to do. If you’re looking for unique Chicago winter date ideas, we’ve got you covered to make this winter truly unforgettable. From classic ice skating and snowy strolls to unique experiences like floating down the Chicago River in a hot tub boat or immersing yourself in the city’s premier storytelling scene, we’ve rounded up our favorite best things to ado in chicago and most fun-filled winter activities in Chicago
Experience the unique joy of hot tub boats in Chicago, where you can cruise the city’s lively skyline along the Chicago River. Picture yourself and your friends enjoying a private hot tub, surrounded by glittering skyscrapers. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or seeking a memorable adventure, Chicago’s hot tub boats offer a perfect mix of leisure and sightseeing. Glide through the waterways, sip your favorite drinks, and soak in the warm, bubbling waters while the city unfolds around you. It’s a relaxing and exciting addition to your Chicago getaway.
To get a hot tub boat on the rental page, make sure the Winter Rentals – Marina City location. The rental is for 90 minutes and costs about $158.
The Titanic Exhibit would be one of the best things to do in Chicago in February. This exhibit offers a captivating and immersive experience that takes visitors on a poignant journey back to the ill-fated maiden voyage of the RMS Titanic in 1912. From February 16th to April 21st, step into the exhibit and be transported to a different era, where the opulence and grandeur of the Titanic are brought to life through a carefully curated collection of real artifacts and meticulously crafted replicas.
The exhibit lets you see actual pieces of the Titanic that have been at the bottom of the North Atlantic for more than 100 years. Real artifacts like personal items, China, and parts of the ship create a direct link to the people who were on board. These artifacts remind us of the human stories during the tragic events.
Early Bird tickets are currently $29.70 per person, so get your tickets quick before the price goes up!
Experience Chicago's Storytelling Scene at the Fillet of Solo
Discover Chicago’s lively storytelling scene at a two-week showcase. Enjoy funny and powerful stories from top performers at Lifeline Theatre and South of the Border Restaurant & Bar. The 27th annual festival includes diverse acts, with storytelling collectives and solo artists.
For ticket information, click here.
Chicago Restaurant Week
Chicago Restaurant Week is an annual culinary celebration that takes place in Windy City from January 19th to February 4th. During this event, participating restaurants offer special prix fixe menus at discounted prices, allowing diners to try new foods at a fraction of the regular cost. If you’re a foodie visiting Chicago during Restaurant Week, here are a few tips to make the most of this delicious event:
- Plan ahead: Restaurant Week is a popular event, and tables at participating restaurants can fill up quickly. It’s best to make reservations as soon as possible. heads up for when your favorite spots are accepting reservations, as many restaurants open up their bookings a few weeks in advance.
- Explore new neighborhoods: Restaurant Week provides a great opportunity to try restaurants in neighborhoods you might not usually visit. Take this chance to discover some hidden gems and explore a new part of the city.
- Try something new: Restaurant Week is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Whether it’s a cuisine you’ve never had before or a dish you’ve been curious about, now is the time to take the plunge.
Overall, Chicago Restaurant Week is a fantastic way to experience the city’s diverse culinary scene and enjoy some amazing dishes at a discounted price. With a little planning and an open mind, you’re sure to have a memorable dining experience.
Buddy Guy’s Legends
It’s that time of year again! Buddy Guy, the legendary blues musician, is set to perform at his eponymous club in Chicago this month. If you’re a fan of the blues, you won’t want to miss this chance to see one of the greatest guitarists of all time in action. Buddy Guy has been a major force in the blues scene for over six decades. His live performances are known for their energy, passion, and pure musical excellence.
Buddy Guy’s Legends, located in the heart of Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood, has a long history of hosting big names in blues and rock music. The club’s intimate setting and top-notch sound system make it the perfect place to experience the raw power and emotion of Buddy Guy’s music.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see Buddy Guy’s upcoming performances at Buddy Guy’s Legends in Chicago. It’s sure to be a night to remember! Check out the event calendar for January by clicking here.
With many things to do in the Chinatown neighborhood in Chicago, one of the best things to do is to attend the Lunar New Year Parade. It marks the start of the lunar calendar and brings families and communities together to honor cultural traditions. Held in various locations across Chicago, this festival marks the beginning of the lunar calendar with a spectacular showcase of Chinese traditions and customs.
The parade takes place February 18th at 1 PM at the intersection of 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue and travel north on Wentworth towards the viewing stand at Cermak and Wentworth. When you’re in the Chinatown neighborhood, don’t forget to check the shops in the area and try out the authentic Chinese food, it’s something you won’t forget!
GO ICE SKATING
Chicago and its surrounding suburbs have many ice skating rinks to enjoy. You can show off your skating skills or learn a new skill. You don’t need to be a pro or own skates. These rinks rent skates and offer lessons so everyone can have fun. Here a few favorites to check out.
Maggie Daley Park– features a quarter-mile, curving loop in the north side of Millennium Park which includes skate rental, ranges from $16 to $22. On weekdays, skating is free if you bring your own skates.
Mccormick Tribute Ice Rink: Open from November to March, the rink at McCormick Tribune Plaza is a favorite spot for over 100,000 skaters annually. It’s free to skate, and if you need skates, you can rent them. With the city skyline as your backdrop, it’s a perfect place for both experienced skaters and those new to the ice, creating joyful winter memories in the heart of Chicago.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREE MUSUEM DAYS
Illinois Free Days are making a comeback, granting free entry to the city’s top-notch exhibits. Whether it’s the Art Institute of Chicago or the Shedd Aquarium, Illinois residents can explore for free on specific days in the coming months.
SEE A NEW SHOW
Save the date for ten days of discounted tickets to some of Chicago’s fantastic shows. Chicago Theatre Week is the perfect time to rediscover the thrill of live theatre, with more than 100 exciting performances in every corner of the city. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of Chicago’s vibrant theater scene at unbeatable prices from Feb. 8 – 18, 2024.
Tickets are available for $15 or $30 or less! tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. CST on Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024. This is first come first serve so make sure to grab yours as soon as you can.
