How to have an active winter in Chicago this year

Winter in Chicago doesn’t have to mean hibernating indoors.

From brisk outdoor adventures to lively indoor experiences, the city offers countless ways to stay active, have fun, and embrace the magic of the season.

Here are just a few of the exhilarating cold-weather activities in Chicago to help you make the most of our wintery wonderland.

Hit the ice at outdoor rinks

Your Chicago winter bucket list isn’t complete without a glide across the ice.

From the iconic Maggie Daley Skating Ribbon in the heart of downtown to neighborhood rinks sprinkled across the city, Chicago’s outdoor ice skating rinks are a great way to stay active while getting some fresh air. Whether you’re practicing spins or shuffling along the edge, the scenic settings and fun atmosphere make it a must-do.

Looking to learn? The Millennium Park ice rink offers free rentals for beginners throughout the season. Skate rentals are even included.

Sauna and cold plunge on the lakefront

Balance winter chill with deep warmth by booking a lakeside sauna and cold plunge session this winter. It’s restorative, invigorating, and one of the most refreshing winter experiences you can have in Chicago.

At North Avenue Beach, Fire & Ice Sauna Experience wood-fired cedar saunas offer cozy heat, followed by a bracing dip in the icy lake that boosts circulation and energy. 

Kiln Floating Sauna offers a winter wellness experience with a view. Parked in the Navy Pier Marina, this Nordic-style sauna offers public and private sessions that pair perfectly with a cold plunge directly into Lake Michigan.

Try your hand at curling

For a uniquely social winter workout, give curling a try.

This seasonal sport, popular during the Olympics, can be played at several unique locations in Chicago — but only in the winter, so don’t miss your chance. It’s approachable, competitive, and surprisingly heart-pumping.

In the West Loop, Kaiser Tiger offers outdoor curling lanes in their sprawling beer garden. Your reservation includes all your equipment and a curling master to teach you the rules and techniques.

If you’re looking for curling with a view, The Gwen brings a rooftop twist to the sport. The annual Winter Curl and Chill pop-up takes over the rooftop terrace with a curling court, a firepit table, and seasonal treats. 

Sled at Soldier Field

Bundle up, bring your own sled, and fly down the snowy slope at Soldier Field’s Sledding Hill. Beloved by kids and adults alike, this lakeside hill is the perfect spot to make the most of a snow day. Grab your toboggan and enjoy an exhilarating rush with a backdrop of the stadium and skyline.

Cheer on the Bulls or Blackhawks

If you need a blast of adrenaline while staying indoors, head to the United Center and cheer on the Chicago Bulls or the Chicago Blackhawks.

The Chicago Bulls, the city’s legendary NBA team, and the Chicago Blackhawks, NHL superstars, both host tons of home games throughout the winter. Both teams share the United Center, which switches between hardwood and ice.

Few experiences warm you up like the roar of a Chicago crowd, whether it’s a slam dunk off a fast break or a third-period power-play goal. It’s the perfect way to keep your energy high all winter long.

Cross-country ski or snowshoe at the Morton Arboretum

If you’re looking for some wide open spaces, make a quick escape to the Morton Arboretum in nearby Lisle.

The tree-focused botanical garden is the perfect place for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the winter. Trails wind through peaceful snow-covered pine forests, offering a workout that’s as scenic as it is satisfying. 

Ski and snowshoe rentals are available at the arboretum seasonally, weather permitting.

Take in the beauty of the Lakefront Trail

A winter walk along the Lake Michigan delivers invigorating breezes, extraordinary views, and a surprising sense of calm.

Open year round, the Lakefront Trail offers a dramatic vantage point of the frozen lake and snowy skyline. The trail is also close to many of the city’s top museums and attractions, including the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago’s Museum Campus, and Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum if you’re looking for somewhere to warm up afterward.

Wander the Lincoln Park Zoo

The historic Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a peaceful cold-weather retreat once the winter chill settles in.

Without the warm-weather crowds, you can stroll the paths at a leisurely pace, visit indoor habitats, and appreciate the crisp outdoor scenery. Plus, many of the cold-weather species are more active in the winter, including macaques, snow leopards, lynx, polar bears, penguins, and red wolves.

It’s an easy, active way to log some steps while exploring one of the city’s most beloved spots.

Compete with friends at darts or ping pong

When the weather outside is frightful, head indoors for a game of darts at Flight Club or a ping-pong match at AceBounce. Both spots elevate classic bar games with lively atmospheres, group-friendly setups, and plenty of space to move. Whether you’re firing off precision dart throws or working up a quick sweat at the ping-pong table, it’s an easy way to stay active without braving the elements.

More ways to stay active in Chicago this winter

• Get your heart racing with an indoor trampoline session at Altitude Chicago
• Learn how to fly during a trapeze or aerial silks class at Get a Grip Trapeze
• Stop to smell the roses during a stroll through the Garfield Park Conservatory
• Perfect your swing at the Topgolf Swing Suite, an indoor sports simulator
• Take a brisk but beautiful walk through the Chicago Botanic Garden