6 Exceptional Ways to Experience Illinois in Winter
Winter has evolved from a season of hibernation to one of celebration, fueled by cultural hits like Disney's Frozen and Frozen II, and the cozy Danish tradition of hygge. Illinois fully embraces this transformation, offering its most thrilling outdoor pursuits and best hotel deals during the coldest months. Discover six standout winter experiences below.
Illinois delivers unforgettable winter adventures, from wildlife spotting to culinary feasts. Here's your guide to the state's top attractions.
Spot Majestic Bald Eagles
Illinois boasts the second-largest winter bald eagle population in the U.S., trailing only Alaska. In Alton, join a 45-minute shuttle tour to prime viewing spots along the Mississippi River, including Maple Island, Heron Pond, Ellis Island, and the Audubon Center. Alternatively, visit Rock Island in the Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, where the 12-story clock tower offers excellent vantage points. Guided tours are scheduled for Jan. 14, 18, and 25, and Feb. 1 and 8. Reservations are essential; call 309-794-5338.
For an immersive experience, time your visit for Great River Eagles Days (Jan. 25-26) in Quincy, featuring eagle viewings, Native American foods and crafts, and the Blessing of the Eagle ceremony. On Jan. 26, combine it with the Bald Eagle Festival at Grafton's Pere Marquette State Park. Pere Marquette's Bald Eagle Days, with driving tours, lectures, and videos, continue through March 6 (call 217-577-1930). For a full list of eagle-watching opportunities, go here.
Savor World-Class Dining
Chicago is a premier culinary destination, rivaling New York, San Francisco, and Paris. Celebrity chefs like Rick Bayless, Grant Achatz, Stephanie Izard, and Sarah Gruenberg, along with numerous James Beard Award winners, have elevated its status. The James Beard Foundation even relocated its annual awards to Chicago. Experience this during Restaurant Week (Jan. 24-Feb. 9), the nation's largest, with over 400 restaurants offering multi-course meals at $24 for lunch/brunch and $36-$48 for dinner.
Highlights include 'nduja arancini and polenta gratinata at James Beard winner Sarah Gruenberg's Monteverde; albacore tuna ceviche and carne asada at Rick Bayless's Topolobampo; and classics like corned-beef sandwiches or bratwurst at the historic Berghoff Restaurant (est. 1898, a James Beard America's Classic).
Enjoy Premier Theater Productions
Chicago Theatre Week (Feb. 13-23) brings top shows at discounted prices of $15 or $30. Highlights include Gershwin's An American in Paris at Drury Lane Theatre; Paul Gordon's Emma at Chicago Shakespeare Theater; Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap at Court Theatre; and Tracy Letts' intense Bug at Steppenwolf Theatre, praised by Time Out Chicago as one of the most gripping experiences.
In Glencoe, Writers Theatre—acclaimed by the Wall Street Journal as America's best—presents Stick Fly, exploring family dynamics, class, and race. Subscribe to the Theatre Week email or follow @chicagoPlays for updates.
Catch Limited-Time Exhibits and Events
Achieve a cultural trifecta in Chicago this winter with must-see exhibits. Andy Warhol—From A to B and Back Again at the Art Institute of Chicago (through Jan. 26) showcases icons like Twelve Jackies, Mao, and Marilyn Monroe from the Edlis Neeson Collection. The Museum of Contemporary Photography hosts In Real Life (through March 29), examining computer vision, data collection, and facial recognition biases.
In Rockford, witness the Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition at Sinnissippi Park (Jan. 23-25), where teams craft massive sculptures by hand for a shot at the 2020 U.S. Nationals.
Immerse in Galena's Charming Festivals
Galena, a National Register of Historic Places gem with preserved 19th-century architecture, shines in winter with festivals amid its quaint streets.
Events include Galena LitFest (through Jan. 19) with readings and workshops; Galena Whiskey Tasting Weekend (Jan. 25) at historic Turner Hall; Winter Carnival Weekend (Feb. 14-17) with bonfires and snow games; and Mardi Gras Weekend (Feb. 21-22) featuring Main Street bead-throwing. Shop indie boutiques and stay at top Midwest B&Bs.
Explore Scenic Winter Trails
Illinois offers prime winter hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest—ancient seabed remnants—is a highlight. Try the 3,400 acres of Glacial Park Nature Preserve or the Galena River Trail (stay at Inn at Irish Hollow for cottages, gourmet meals, and massages).
Near Chicago, Morton Arboretum in Lisle provides 16 miles of trails through 1,700 acres, including an evergreen forest. These adventures create lasting memories.
