How to Enjoy Chicago's Only Winter Activity: Ice Skating

While Chicago does not garner a reputation for skiing, ice fishing or even tobogganing, few know that the Windy City provides free ice-skating from the end of November through the end of February at certain locations. Given the limited outdoor Chicago activities, ice-skating proves to be an invigorating means to enjoying the frosty temps. Afterwards, imbibe a mega-cup of hot cocoa, or even better savor a comforting meal.

Where to go?
Chicagoans, who reside downtown, have two ice skating rink options. There's the McCormick Tribune ice-skating in rink Millennium Park, which tends to be a tourist attraction. The other choice is the Richard J.. Daley Bicentennial Plaza, ice rink. (Personally, I prefer the latter because it attracts fewer tourists than the McCormick and Tribune rink; however, it does not have any concession stands). Long before Millennium Park became home to an ice rink, the Cloud Gate and Park Grill in 2004, the mayor's moniker rink in Grant Park, was an annual custom for many Chicago families.

Nevertheless, the McCormick and Tribune rink presents visitors with two advantages: the Park Grill restaurant, close proximity to the Cloud Gate, and other attractions along Michigan Avenue (in example: the Art Institute, Cultural Center, Chicago Symphony Orchestra).

** Note that ice skate rentals are $10 at the McCormick Tribune (Millennium Park) rink.

Where to go for hot cocoa?
For a mug of hot chocolate, Park Grill has the winter beverage on special as well as three different dining and menu options. For an organic taste of the Chicago experience, the Walnut Room is a traditional place to dine before or after skating. The historical restaurant is virtually a landmark that was a byproduct of Marshall Field's department store, which is now the home of Macy's, on the corner of State and Wabash.

The latest addition to Chicago's family of ice rinks has a temporary home outside of the Cub's stadium, Wrigley Field. Unlike other ice rinks, there's a nominal charge of $5 on the weekdays and $10 on the weekends for adults. Rockit Bar and Grill of Wrigleyville is the most convenient and satisfying choice for hot beverages or even a cup of soup.

Chicago Ice Skating tip: Select Chicago Park Districts host generous hours of complimentary ice-skating with rentals ranging between $7 and $10. (Please visit ChicagoParkDistrict.com for a list of ice rinks )

Chicago Skating Rinks:

Daley Bicentennial Plaza Ice Skating Rink 337 E. Randolph | Chicago, IL 60602

McCormick and Tribune Rink - Millennium Park | 11 N. Michigan | Chicago Il 60602

Wrigley Field Rink | Corner of Addison and Clark Street

Chicago Restaurants and Eateries

Park Grill Millennium Park | 11 N. Michigan, Chicago Il 60602
The Walnut Room Macy's | 111 N. State Street, Chicago Il 60602
Rockit Bar and Grill | 3700 N. Clark, Chicago, IL