Ice skating in Millennium Park is a cherished Chicago tradition. Each winter, the downtown park is home to two unique public ice rinks. You can glide along on the charming rink nestled in the shadow of a Chicago icon — Cloud Gate, known as “The Bean” — and the lights of Michigan Avenue. Then take a spin along a one-of-a-kind ribbon of ice that winds past snow-capped pines and the glimmering Chicago skyline. It’s the perfect winter activity for families, date nights, and beyond.
Check out the seasonal ice skating rinks on Chicago’s Millennium Park campus and explore more ice skating rinks all around the city.
McCormick Tribune ice rink in Millennium Park
Come experience a Chicago winter tradition, now in its 21st season. The McCormick Tribune skating rink in Millennium Park is a bucket-list spot to take a spin on the ice, drawing more than 100,000 skaters each year. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking wintery views of Chicago, including the downtown skyline, the magical lights on the city’s towering Christmas tree, and all the holiday lights reflected on the shining surface of The Bean.
The rink is open daily from November through March, weather permitting. Admission is free, but online reservations are required. Skate rentals are available.
Skating Ribbon in Maggie Daley Park
Maggie Daley Park, right next to Millennium Park, is home to a picturesque Skating Ribbon that meanders around snow-dusted pine trees and whimsical play spaces — all with soaring skyscrapers as your backdrop. The path is twice the length of a lap around a traditional skating rink, which means twice the fun for skaters.
The Skating Ribbon opens for the winter season in November and will remain open through March, weather permitting. You’ll need to make a reservation in advance — limited spots will be available, so make sure to book your time slot early.
