Escape Chicago's Winter Chill: 7 Top Indoor Activities for Warmth and Fun
While Chicago's winter weather may deter some visitors, low airfare and hotel rates make it an ideal time to visit. Bundle up with your warmest jacket, hat, scarf, and gloves, and discover how to enjoy the city indoors. Travelzoo, in partnership with Google Local Guides, shares expert recommendations for staying warm. Read to the end for a chance to win $300 toward your next Chicago trip!
Warm Up with Exceptional Dining
The Fulton Market District offers numerous 4.5-star Google-rated restaurants. Local Guide Jacqueline Stoutin raves about the "standing ovation delicious" dishes at Girl & the Goat. Other top picks include Au Cheval and The Publican.
Embrace Chicago's deep-dish pizza tradition. Local Guide Raj Desai recommends Lou Malnati’s “The Lou” on a garlic butter crust, while Local Guide Juan Antonio Fuentes suggests Giordano’s at Prudential Plaza/Millennium Park for shorter waits.
Explore Travelzoo’s top-rated Chicago restaurants with savings up to 50% off here.
Sip on Hot Drinks with a View
Warm up at the Signature Lounge on the 96th floor of the John Hancock Center on the Magnificent Mile. Enjoy wine or whiskey paired with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.
For non-alcoholic options, Mindy’s HotChocolate in Bucktown serves exceptional hot cocoa. Flavors range from Mint to Mexican, topped with Local Guide Megan Town’s favorite made-from-scratch marshmallows. Lara Poeppelmeier pairs it with homemade cinnamon-sugar doughnuts and raspberry jam.
Explore World-Class Museums
No Chicago visit is complete without its premier museums. The Art Institute of Chicago, consistently ranked among the world's best, features art from ancient to contemporary. Local Guide Jessica advises ample time for the collection and a free guided highlights tour for deeper insights.
Art enthusiasts will love the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, showcasing sculpture, video, painting, and film. Save 25% on admission with Travelzoo’s deal. Or delve into the universe at the Adler Planetarium—America’s first—with 45% off via Travelzoo.
Shop the Indoor Malls on the Magnificent Mile
Retail therapy awaits indoors along the Magnificent Mile. Visit 900 North Michigan Shops and The Shops at North Bridge for luxury brands, or explore eight levels at Water Tower Place with stores like Gap and Banana Republic. Local Guide Dave Seefeld highlights the Dr. Seuss art gallery on the second floor.
Cozy Up in a Bookstore
Nothing beats curling up with a book. Visit favorites like Myopic Books or Quimby’s in Wicker Park, The Book Cellar in Lincoln Square, or 57th Street Books in Hyde Park. Stock up and find a quiet corner for the day.
Indulge in Spa Pampering
Treat yourself at Chuan Spa at The Langham, named one of Chicago's best by Travel + Leisure. Save 50% on a winter spa package including massage, fitness class, prosecco, chocolates, a robe, and more. Or enjoy over 35% off a massage at the AAA 5-Diamond Four Seasons Hotel, with access to luxury amenities.
Take in Sky-High Views
Ascend the Willis Tower, Chicago’s tallest building, to the Skydeck on the 103rd floor. Travelzoo saves over 20% on admission. Step onto the Ledge’s glass balconies extending 4.3 feet out, with views 1,353 feet down. Follow with a luxe dinner for two at the Metropolitan Club on the 67th floor for $89, overlooking downtown.
What are your favorite indoor Chicago winter activities? Share tips with us and Google Local Guides by leaving a review here.
Google Local Guides rewards high-quality Google Maps reviews. Reviews through year-end boost your chances of winning $300 toward Travelzoo.
