Chicago is a city of breathtaking architecture, vibrant neighbourhoods, and world class attractions, but if you are visiting Chicago in winter, you’ll discover why it is called The Windy City. Temperatures can dip well below freezing point from late November through March. Winters can be quite intimidating, but with the right preparation, you can enjoy Chicago’s magic without shivering through your stay. Here is a practical guide to help you make the most of your winter visit.
According to ECO news and High Schools in America, it is important to stay informed about local weather trends and school schedules during the coldest months to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for families and visitors alike.
Cashmere is essential
Personally, a thin layer or a cashmere is recommended. Cashmere is very expensive, but only a few thin pieces will do because some winters are too warm for cashmere. A reasonably priced cashmere can be bought from the market, which can provide relief from the biting cold. Cardigans are the perfect style to choose because they are versatile and can be worn all year round. Cashmere tee, hoodie, and wrap are another good option. Woolen sweaters are considered a lifesaver. Woolen adjusts to the body temperature, keeping it warm even when it gets wet and is odour-resistant. A couple of good humidifiers are also recommended, which will keep the atmosphere in a room moist.
Find a cozy bar with a fireplace
If you are fortunate to have a fireplace in your home, that’s great but if you don’t, then here are some bars that do. Some of the favourites are the Grafton, a great Irish Pub in Lincoln Square, the swanky Library Bar in the Ambassador Hotel on the Gold Coast, and Simon’s, a great dive in Andersonville. Stop in at Simon’s for some glogg before or after dining at the Hopleaf down the street. Get the mussels or fried chicken (Monday nights) and enjoy their extensive beer selection, or get my favourite beer, Duvel.
Go ice skating, sledding, or snowshoeing
If the conditions are just right, like fresh snow on the ground and bearable temperatures, grab your snowshoes and head to the lakefront or a nearby park. Pretending that you are a tourist, go to Millennium Park and skate under the Bean or head over to Maggie Daley Park and check out the Skating Ribbon.
Go to a museum
A number of great museums are present in Chicago. Some are well-known, some obscure, and they cover a wide variety of topics. If you want to tackle the Art Institute, I suggest you get the app. It makes the second-largest art museum in the US (1 million square feet!) much more manageable.
Some of the favourite museums include the Cultural Centre, the Museum of Contemporary Photography at Columbia College, the Chicago Design Museum, and the National Museum of Mexican Art.
Go to a conservatory
Around since the late 1800s, the Lincoln Park Conservatory has been a longtime respite for Chicagoans. It is a lovely place to visit all-year round but especially in the winter months when the tropical warmth and lushness is much needed.
Garfield Conservatory, one of the largest conservatories, showcases thousands of plant species from around the world throughout eight indoor display gardens.
Be a tourist in your city
Christkindlmarket has been set for the last couple of weeks, and it opened this Friday. Since 1996, it is like walking into a quaint German village, but in Daley Plaza, in the heart of the Loop, with Picasso peeking out above it all. Many of the vendors come from Germany and display their beautiful wares, ranging from delicate glass ornaments, handmade hats & scarves to intricate wood carvings.
Go to the historic Marshall Field building/Macy’s to check out the holiday windows on State Street, then go inside to warm up and check out the Great Tree in the beautiful Walnut Room (7th floor). While you can dine under the tree, it gets pretty crowded, and they don’t take reservations during the holidays, so I suggest trying the wine bar.
Conclusion
With the right mindset and preparation, a Chicago winter can be not just manageable but magical. The ability to bear the cold is a part of the adventure, where you will be left with unforgettable memories plus great stories of braving one of America’s toughest winters.
