2015 Chicago Holiday Guide: Best Spots for Ice Skating
Posted by Leo Clark. on Saturday, November 14th, 2015 at 2:05pm.
In many ways, it’s hard to believe the holiday season is once again upon us, but here we are, already halfway through November. Over the next couple weeks, we’re going to get you all caught up on what’s happening in Chicago during the 2015 holiday season and where to make the most of the most wonderful time of year.
To kick off our 2015 Chicago Holiday Guide, we’re going to feature all the best spots in the city to go ice skating this year, which truly is a favorite wintertime activity for Chicagoans near and far. And whether you’re quick on the ice or still a little dicey, these Chicago ice skating spots welcome anyone looking to have a little outdoor fun over the next few months:
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink - Millennium Park
Probably Chicago’s most iconic ice skating rink, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink at Millennium Park is the one place in Chicago we recommend checking out. Now in it’s 13th year, visitors can skate free while enjoying awesome winter views of the city and downtown skyline. But because more than 100,000 skaters visit the Millennium Park skating rink each year, stopping by during peak hours usually means a long wait for skate rentals. You’ve been warned.
Open November 2015 to March 2016
Ice Rink at Lincoln Park Zoo - Lincoln Park Zoo
When you combine the ZooLights display AND ice skating, making a trip over to the Lincoln Park Zoo is a MUST. In addition to all the great light displays and the ice skating rink, visitors are also invited to enjoy all the zoo animals as well, making this a great spot for kids and families who want to ice skate.
Open November 27, 2015 to February 28, 2016
Maggie Daley Skating Ribbon - Maggie Daley Park
One of Chicago’s newest places to go ice skating, the awesome skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park is one-of-a-kind. Given it’s location across from Millennium Park, there’s also lots to do after you go skating, which of course has plenty of benefits. Because it’s a newer spot, however, lines here can be long, and because of its curves and inclines and declines, this might be a better spot for more experienced skaters.
Open November 2015 to March 2016
Ice Rink at Navy Pier - Navy Pier
As the #1 attraction in all of Illinois, did you really think Navy Pier wouldn’t offer ice skating during the holiday season? Along with all the Winter WonderFest activities, Navy Pier also offers an indoor Chicago Blackhawks ice skating rink, which is perfect for those who want to stay warm while enjoy a nice pleasant skate.
Open December 4, 2015 - January 10, 2016