Known for its iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, this 24.5-acre park also features the Crown Fountain and Pritzker Pavilion.

Millennium Park is a 24.5-acre park in the heart of downtown Chicago. /n The park is home to a variety of public art installations, including the iconic 'Cloud Gate', also known as 'The Bean', and the Crown Fountain. The park also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions. The park also offers stunning views of the city's skyline and Lake Michigan. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Millennium Park is a must-visit destination in Chicago.

A popular park in Chicago, known for its public art installations and cultural events.

Also known as 'The Bean', Cloud Gate is a public sculpture in Millennium Park that has become one of Chicago's most recognizable landmarks.

Cloud Gate, affectionately known as 'The Bean', is a public sculpture by Indian-born British artist Anish Kapoor. It's one of the most popular attractions in Chicago, located in Millennium Park. The sculpture is made of 168 stainless steel plates welded together, and its highly polished exterior has no visible seams. It measures 33 by 66 by 42 feet, and weighs 110 tons. /n The sculpture is among the most famous landmarks in Chicago. It's a must-visit for tourists, offering unique reflections of the city's skyline. The Bean is also a popular spot for photography, and it's especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. Despite its size, the sculpture is surprisingly delicate and requires regular cleaning and maintenance to keep its mirror-like surface in good condition.

Cloud Gate, also known as 'The Bean', is a popular public sculpture in Chicago.

An interactive work of public art and video sculpture featured in Chicago's Millennium Park.

The Crown Fountain is a unique piece of interactive public art and video sculpture featured in Chicago's Millennium Park. The fountain is composed of a black granite reflecting pool placed between a pair of glass brick towers. The towers are 50 feet tall and they use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to display digital videos on their inward faces. /n During the summer months, the fountain provides a much-needed space for children and families to cool off. The fountain's water features are operational from mid-spring through mid-fall each year, while the images remain on view year-round. The Crown Fountain is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a refreshing blend of art, technology, and play.

Crown Fountain is a unique interactive work of public art in the heart of Chicago.

One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, the Art Institute of Chicago is home to a collection that spans 5,000 years.

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the premier art museums in the world. /n The museum's collection spans 5,000 years and includes more than 300,000 works of art from around the world. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a casual visitor, the Art Institute of Chicago is a must-visit destination.

One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, located in Chicago.

The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is an annual event that marks the official start of the holiday season in Chicago, featuring a grand illumination parade, fireworks, and live music.

The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is an annual event that marks the official start of the holiday season in Chicago. /n The highlight of the festival is the grand illumination parade, where more than a million lights on 200 trees along the Magnificent Mile are lit up in a spectacular display. The parade is led by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, and features a variety of floats, balloons, marching bands, and performers. /n In addition to the parade, the festival also features a fireworks display over the Chicago River, live music performances, and a variety of family-friendly activities. There are also plenty of food and drink options available, including holiday treats and warm beverages. /n The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a magical event that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

An annual holiday lights festival on Chicago's Magnificent Mile.

One of the largest science museums in the world, featuring a full-size replica coal mine, a German submarine captured during World War II, a 3,500-square-foot model railroad, and the Apollo 8 spacecraft.

The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago is one of the largest science museums in the world. It's a place where you can explore the wonders of science and technology in a fun and interactive way. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, from a full-size replica of a coal mine to a German submarine captured during World War II. /n The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events, making it a great place for families and school groups. Whether you're interested in space exploration, the human body, or the natural world, there's something for everyone at the Museum of Science and Industry. It's not just a museum, it's a cultural experience that's sure to inspire and educate.

One of the largest science museums in the world, offering interactive exhibits.

One of the oldest zoos in North America, offering free admission and home to a wide range of species.

Lincoln Park Zoo is a free, family-friendly zoo located in the heart of Chicago. It's home to a wide variety of animals, from big cats and primates to reptiles and birds. The zoo offers educational programs and events, making it a great place for both fun and learning. /n The zoo is open year-round and features several unique exhibits, including the Regenstein Center for African Apes, the Kovler Lion House, and the Farm-in-the-Zoo. The zoo also has several dining and shopping options, making it a full-day destination. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Lincoln Park Zoo is a must-visit when in Chicago.

A free, family-friendly zoo located in the heart of Chicago.

The Chicago Trolley Holiday Lights Tour is a unique way to experience the magic of the holiday season in Chicago. The tour takes you around the city's most beautifully decorated areas, showcasing the stunning lights and festive decorations that make Chicago shine during the holiday season.

The Chicago Trolley Holiday Lights Tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the city during the holiday season. The tour takes you on a journey around the city, showcasing the stunning holiday lights and decorations that adorn the streets and buildings of Chicago. /n The tour begins in downtown Chicago, where you'll board a classic trolley and set off to explore the city. As you travel through the city, you'll be treated to views of the city's most beautifully decorated areas, including the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, and the Chicago Riverwalk. Along the way, you'll learn about the history and culture of Chicago, making this tour a great way to get to know the city while also getting into the holiday spirit. /n The trolley is heated for your comfort, and the tour guide will provide commentary throughout the journey, pointing out notable sights and sharing interesting facts about the city. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the festive atmosphere and take plenty of photos. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, the Chicago Trolley Holiday Lights Tour is a fantastic way to experience the magic of the holiday season in Chicago.

Experience the magic of Chicago during the holiday season on a trolley tour. See the city's festive lights and decorations.

Navy Pier Winter WonderFest is a festive event featuring indoor ice skating, hundreds of Christmas trees, rides, and more, making it a must-visit destination during the holiday season.

Navy Pier Winter WonderFest is a festive event that transforms Navy Pier into a winter wonderland. /n The centerpiece of the event is an indoor ice skating rink, where visitors can lace up their skates and glide around under a canopy of twinkling lights. There are also hundreds of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, as well as a variety of rides and attractions for visitors of all ages. /n In addition to the ice skating and rides, Winter WonderFest also features live entertainment, including holiday music and performances. There are also plenty of food and drink options available, including holiday treats and warm beverages. /n Navy Pier Winter WonderFest is a must-visit destination during the holiday season, offering a fun and festive experience for the whole family.

A winter festival at Navy Pier featuring indoor ice skating and holiday decorations.

A 385-acre living plant museum situated on nine islands, Chicago Botanic Garden features 27 display gardens and four natural areas.

Chicago Botanic Garden is a beautiful, expansive garden located in the suburbs of Chicago. It features 27 gardens and four natural areas, spread over 385 acres. The garden is home to a wide variety of plants, from roses and daylilies to bonsai trees and aquatic plants. /n The garden offers a variety of educational programs and events, including gardening classes, plant shows, and art exhibitions. It also has several dining and shopping options, making it a full-day destination. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Chicago Botanic Garden is a must-visit when in Chicago.

A beautiful, expansive garden located in the suburbs of Chicago.

The Christkindlmarket is a unique shopping experience, offering traditional German products like nutcrackers, cuckoo clocks, and beer steins, as well as international holiday gifts, ornaments, jewelry, and high-quality arts and crafts.

The Christkindlmarket is a beloved holiday tradition in Chicago. /n The market, which is modeled after the traditional Christmas markets in Germany, offers a unique shopping experience. Visitors can browse through a variety of vendors selling traditional German products like nutcrackers, cuckoo clocks, and beer steins, as well as international holiday gifts, ornaments, jewelry, and high-quality arts and crafts. /n In addition to shopping, the Christkindlmarket also offers a variety of food and drink options. Visitors can enjoy traditional German foods like bratwurst, pretzels, and schnitzel, as well as sweet treats like strudel and gingerbread cookies. There is also a variety of beverages available, including hot spiced wine, German beers, and hot chocolate. /n The Christkindlmarket is a great place to get into the holiday spirit and experience a bit of German culture in the heart of Chicago.

A traditional German holiday market in Chicago's Daley Plaza.

Experience the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, a bustling metropolis known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and diverse culture. Marvel at the city's skyline from the Skydeck of Willis Tower, or stroll along the Magnificent Mile for a shopping spree. Explore the world-class museums like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum. Enjoy the city's culinary scene, from deep-dish pizza to fine dining. Visit Navy Pier for entertainment and Lake Michigan for a scenic view. Sports enthusiasts can catch a game at Wrigley Field, while music lovers can enjoy a show at the Chicago Theatre. Don't forget to visit Millennium Park and see the iconic Cloud Gate, also known as "The Bean". Chicago offers a unique blend of urban exploration and Midwestern hospitality that leaves every visitor captivated.

Millennium Park

Cloud Gate

Crown Fountain

Art Institute of Chicago

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Start your day at the Millennium Park, where you can enjoy the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture and the Crown Fountain. During Christmas, the park is beautifully decorated and hosts the official Chicago Christmas tree.

Enjoy a hearty lunch at a family-friendly restaurant in the 'Loop' district, known for its diverse culinary scene.

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States. Don't miss the Thorne Miniature Rooms, decorated for the holiday season.

Have dinner at a cozy restaurant in the 'Magnificent Mile' area, famous for its vibrant dining scene.

Experience the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, a grand holiday celebration with a tree-lighting parade, fireworks, and live music.

Exploring Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago

Museum of Science and Industry

Lincoln Park Zoo

Start your day at the Museum of Science and Industry, where you can explore the 'Christmas Around the World' and 'Holidays of Light' exhibits.

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the 'Hyde Park' neighborhood, known for its eclectic food scene.

Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo for the 'ZooLights' festival, featuring millions of holiday lights, ice carving demonstrations, and festive activities.

Have dinner at a restaurant in the 'Lincoln Park' area, renowned for its gastronomic delights.

Take a Chicago Trolley Holiday Lights Tour to see the city's most spectacular holiday lights displays.

Discovering the Museum of Science and Industry and Lincoln Park Zoo

Navy Pier Winter WonderFest

Chicago Botanic Garden

Christkindlmarket

Start your day at the Navy Pier Winter WonderFest, a massive indoor winter playground with rides, giant slides, and holiday decor.

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the 'Streeterville' neighborhood, known for its wide range of dining options.

Visit the Chicago Botanic Garden for the 'Lightscape', a one-mile outdoor path transformed into a magical, after-dark illuminated trail.

Have dinner at a restaurant in the 'Glencoe' area, known for its diverse culinary offerings.

End your trip with a visit to the Christkindlmarket, a German-style Christmas market with unique shopping, traditional food, and holiday entertainment.

Experiencing Navy Pier Winter WonderFest and Chicago Botanic Garden

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November; note: the 50 united states cover six time zones

UTC-5

The CTA operates the nation's second largest public transportation system. It includes a network of buses and trains that cover the city and 35 surrounding suburbs. The 'L' train system has eight rapid transit routes and consists of 145 stations.

Metra is a commuter rail system that serves the city of Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. It operates 11 lines and 242 stations, making it an efficient way to travel to and from the city's outskirts.

Pace provides bus services throughout the Chicago suburbs and complements the service provided by CTA and Metra. It operates 241 routes, including express, local, and feeder bus services.

Divvy is Chicago's bike sharing system with thousands of bikes available at hundreds of stations across the city. It's a fun, affordable and convenient way to get around, especially when the weather is nice.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Chicago. These services provide convenient, on-demand transportation throughout the city and suburbs. They can be accessed through smartphone apps.

Taxis are plentiful in Chicago, especially in the downtown area. They can be hailed on the street, at taxi stands, or booked via phone or app.

Chicago's Water Taxi operates on the Chicago River and provides a unique mode of transportation. It's a great way to see the city's architecture and avoid traffic during rush hour.

While driving can be convenient, it can also be challenging due to traffic and expensive due to parking costs. There are numerous parking garages and metered parking spots throughout the city, but be aware of restrictions.

Chicago is a very walkable city, especially in the downtown area where attractions are close together. The city's grid system makes it easy to navigate.

Chicago is a bike-friendly city with many bike lanes and paths, including the 18.5-mile Lakefront Trail. You can bring your own bike or rent one from a bike-sharing service like Divvy.

Several companies offer shuttle services to and from Chicago's two major airports: O'Hare and Midway. These shuttles can be a cost-effective option for travelers.

A Chicago classic, deep-dish pizza is a must-try. It's characterized by its thick, buttery crust, chunky tomato sauce, and generous layers of cheese. It's a staple in Chicago's culinary scene.

Deep-Dish Pizza

This sandwich is a Chicago original, featuring thinly sliced roast beef soaked in juices and served on an Italian-style roll. It can be ordered 'wet' (extra gravy) or 'dry'.

Italian Beef Sandwich

A Chicago-style hot dog is a steamed or boiled all-beef frankfurter on a poppy seed bun, topped with mustard, fresh tomatoes, onions, sport peppers, bright green relish, dill pickles, and a dash of celery salt.

Chicago-Style Hot Dog

A beloved snack in Chicago, Garrett Popcorn is known for its 'Garrett Mix', a blend of sweet caramel crisp and savory cheese popcorn.

Garrett Popcorn

A sandwich that originated in Chicago's Puerto Rican community, the Jibarito is made with flattened, fried green plantains instead of bread, and filled with meat, cheese, lettuce, and tomato.

Jibarito

A popular dish in Chicago's Polish community, Pierogi are dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients, such as potato, cheese, or sauerkraut.

Pierogi

A popular fast food in Chicago, Gyros are Greek sandwiches made with slices of rotisserie-cooked lamb, beef, or chicken, served on pita bread with tzatziki sauce.

Gyros

A Chicago original, Shrimp DeJonghe is a casserole dish that features whole peeled shrimp blanketed in soft, garlicky, sherry-laced bread crumbs.

Shrimp DeJonghe

A traditional Polish pastry, Paczki are deep-fried pieces of dough filled with sweet filling and covered with powdered sugar or icing. They are especially popular in Chicago on Fat Tuesday.

Paczki

A bitter liquor, Malört is a Chicago original. It's known for its strong, unique flavor that's often described as tasting like grapefruit and gasoline.

Malört

Another popular snack in Chicago, this popcorn is a mix of sweet caramel and savory cheese flavors, offering a unique and addictive taste experience.

Chicago-Style Popcorn

Chicago has a thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries producing a wide variety of unique and flavorful beers.

Craft Beer

New Year's Day

New Year's Day (substitute)

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Presidents' Day

Memorial Day

Juneteenth

Independence Day

Labor Day

Columbus Day

Veterans Day (substitute)

Veterans Day

Thanksgiving Day

Christmas Day

A beautiful outdoor park with hiking trails and waterfalls.

Starved Rock State Park

A national park on the shore of Lake Michigan offering a wide range of activities.

Indiana Dunes National Park

A large amusement park with a variety of rides and attractions.

Six Flags Great America

An art museum with a collection of over 31,000 works.

Milwaukee Art Museum

A private Catholic research university known for its historic campus, collegiate gothic architecture, and strong athletic tradition.

University of Notre Dame

A state forest known for its glacial landforms, such as kettles, moraines, and kames.

Kettle Moraine State Forest

The capital of Wisconsin, known for its vibrant cultural scene and beautiful lakes.

Madison

The capital of Illinois, known for its association with Abraham Lincoln.

Springfield

A major city in Missouri along the Mississippi River, known for its iconic Gateway Arch.

St. Louis

Chicago skyline at night during Christmas from Adler Planetarium

N Michigan Ave at night. Downtown Chicago during Christmas

Chicago is located in the Central Time Zone.

The city is known for its unpredictable weather. Always check the forecast before your trip.

Chicago is a very walkable city, but it also has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and the 'L' train.

Tipping is customary in Chicago. It's standard to tip 15-20% at restaurants and for services.

The city is known for its food. Don't miss out on trying a Chicago-style hot dog or deep-dish pizza.

Sales tax in Chicago is 10.25%, one of the highest in the U.S.

Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm.

The city is located on Lake Michigan, which can make it feel colder due to the 'lake effect'.

Chicago is a sports-loving city, home to the Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, Bears, and Blackhawks.

The city is very bike-friendly, with numerous bike lanes and bike-sharing programs.

Chicago is known for its music scene, particularly blues and jazz.

The city has strict smoking laws. Smoking is banned in all indoor public places and within 15 feet of any entrance.

Chicago's O'Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world.

The city is known for its architecture. Consider taking an architectural tour.

Chicago has a high sales tax on bottled water, so consider bringing a reusable water bottle.

The city can get very cold in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing (32°F/0°C).

Chicago's summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching into the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit (27-32°C).

The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, including theater, visual arts, and music.

Chicago is a diverse city with a rich history of immigration, which is reflected in its food, neighborhoods, and festivals.

The city has a reputation for being windy, hence its nickname 'The Windy City', but this is more due to its political history than its actual weather.

January is the coldest month in Chicago, with snow and freezing temperatures, so pack warm clothes.

February is still quite cold with a chance of snow, but temperatures start to rise slightly.

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures rising, but still expect some chilly days.

April is a transitional month with temperatures ranging from chilly to mild, and occasional rain showers.

May is the start of the warm season, with pleasant temperatures and more sunny days.

June is a great month to visit Chicago, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

July is the hottest month in Chicago, with high humidity and plenty of sunshine.

August is still quite hot, but temperatures start to cool down towards the end of the month.

September is a pleasant month with mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.

October sees the arrival of fall, with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage.

November is a transitional month with temperatures dropping and the first signs of winter.

December is a cold month with a high chance of snow, so pack warm clothes if you plan to visit.

Chicago, often referred to as the "Windy City", experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year, so it's important to plan your visit accordingly. 

Spring (March to May) in Chicago can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). It's a good idea to pack layers and a waterproof jacket as rain showers are common during this season.

Summer (June to August) is typically warm and humid, with temperatures often reaching up to 85°F (29°C). However, it can occasionally get hotter, so don't forget your sunscreen, hats, and light clothing. Also, be aware that Chicago can experience severe thunderstorms during the summer months.

Fall (September to November) is a beautiful time to visit Chicago as the leaves change color. Temperatures can vary greatly, from 70°F in September (21°C) to 40°F in November (4°C). A light jacket and umbrella are recommended as rain can be frequent.

Winter (December to February) in Chicago can be quite harsh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, sometimes as low as 20°F (-6°C). Snowfall is common and can be heavy, so pack warm clothing, including a winter coat, gloves, and a hat. 

Regardless of when you visit, keep in mind that Chicago's weather can change quickly. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Also, remember that the wind can make it feel colder than the actual temperature, especially near the lakefront.

Finally, don't let the weather deter you from enjoying all that Chicago has to offer. There are plenty of indoor attractions like museums, art galleries, and restaurants to enjoy if the weather isn't cooperating.

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3-Day Family Christmas Holiday Itinerary in Chicago, Illinois

About Chicago, Illinois