One of the best parts about winter in Chicago is the array of charming ice rinks that pop up all across the city. These seasonal rinks are a beloved winter tradition for locals and visitors alike. You can glide around on one of Millennium Park’s scenic ice rinks or get on the ice in one of our many neighborhood parks. Explore some of the best ice skating rinks around Chicago for a day filled with wintry fun.
Winterland at Gallagher Way
Chicago’s Wrigley Field transforms into an all-ages winter wonderland come November. Along with a Christkindlmarket and Santa’s workshop, Winterland at Gallagher Way features a family-friendly ice rink inside the iconic ballpark that’s perfect for skaters of all skill levels. Look forward to skating on the ice and enjoying ice bumper cars in the outfield.
The rink at Gallagher Way is open November through January, weather permitting. Skate rentals are available.
Midway Plaisance
In historic Hyde Park, the Midway Plaisance ice skating rink is located at the site of Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair and is surrounded by the striking gothic architecture of the University of Chicago. The rink is nestled between Jackson and Washington Parks, which are both excellent spots for a scenic winter walk. Drop in for a game of hockey or an ice skating lesson on select dates.
The rink is typically open daily from November through February. Admission is free; skate rentals and skate aids for those learning to skate are available. Specialty sleds that allow people of all abilities to skate together are available to use free of charge.
Warren Park
One of the city’s biggest public parks, Warren Park is located in the West Ridge neighborhood. In the winter, you’ll find locals twirling on the seasonal ice rink. Hockey games and skating lessons are open to the public on select dates. Afterward, warm up with authentic Indian, Pakistani, and Middle Eastern dishes on nearby Devon Avenue, where you can sample cuisines from around the world.
The rink is typically open from November through February. Admission is free, skate rentals and skate aids for those learning to skate are available. Specialty sleds that allow people of all abilities to skate together are available to use free of charge.
Mount Greenwood Park
The rink at Mount Greenwood Park is the perfect spot for beginner skaters. The large rink also hosts hockey games and ice skating lessons.
The rink is typically open from late November through February. Admission is free, skate rentals and skate aids for those learning to skate are available. Specialty sleds that allow people of all abilities to skate together are available to use free of charge.
Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon
Maggie Daley Park, right next to iconic Millennium Park, opens up its picturesque Skating Ribbon each winter. The meandering ice-covered path, twice the length of a typical skating rink, curves through the whimsical play spaces and snow-dusted pine trees with soaring skyscrapers in the background.
The Skating Ribbon opens for the winter season in November and will remain open until March, weather permitting. Skate rentals and skate assists are available. Online reservations are required.
McCormick Tribune ice rink
For more than 20 years, the iconic skating rink in Millennium Park has been a must-do for any winter visit to Chicago. Take a spin around the ice in the center of downtown, while you admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding city skyline and the magical sight of all those holiday lights reflected on the surface of Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”).
The rink is open daily from November through March, weather permitting. Admission is free, online reservations are required. Skate rentals are available.
Sky Rink at The Peninsula Chicago
The Sky Rink at The Peninsula Chicago, the only hotel ice skating rink in the city, is perched high above the hustle and bustle of Michigan Avenue. Located on a fourth-floor terrace overlooking The Magnificent Mile, this charming rink is bathed in festive music and snowflake lighting. Warm up with the outdoor menu that features hot beverages and seasonal treats.
The price of admission includes skates and benefits children’s charities.
