Top 5: Chicago Wintertime Activities

 Headed to Chicago this winter? Don’t miss these Chicago wintertime favorite activities.

ZooLights and Brewlights

At the free Lincoln Park Zoo, you might find it a bit too chilly to enjoy looking at the animals during the day, but you’ll find there’s enough fun going on at night to keep your mind off the weather. Through Jan. 5, the zoo is lit with 2.5 million Christmas lights, including a light maze and 65-foot Christmas light Ferris wheel, and the ZooLights event includes live ice sculpture carving and refreshments. The event gets an adult kick Dec. 12, when BrewLights combines Christmas lights with beer tastings.

Museum of Science & Industry Holiday of Lights

The Museum of Science & Industry, Chicago puts on an amazing display of Christmas trees, each of the more than 50 trees decked out in decorations inspired by cultures around the world. The event has been beloved by Chicagoans and visitors alike since it first debuted in 1942.

Christkindlemarket

Through Dec. 24, visit Daley Plaza for the German-style Christkindlemarket. The plaza is filled with striped tents and the smell of roasting nuts as you peruse German handicrafts and plenty of snacks like pretzels, bratwurst and hot spiced wine.

Winter Wonderland at The Godfrey Hotel Chicago

For a unique date night or night out with friends, book one of the igloos atop The Godfrey Hotel Chicago. The heated, clear igloos are a fun spot to enjoy bottle service and the company of one or up to 10 of your favorite people. Hot cocktails are plentiful and there are even s’mores goodies at outdoor fire pits.