While Chicagoland winters can be brutal, there’s something magical about putting on a pair of skates and gliding along the ice under the sparkle of the city lights. Outdoor ice skating in Chicago can be one of the highlights of your winter, whether you’re ice skating in Chicago by the Bean, or doing a few laps with your kids around your neighborhood park’s rink. Take time to enjoy ice skating in Chicago and make the 2021 winter one to remember!
Ice Skating in Chicago by the Bean
When you think of outdoor ice skating in Chicago, chances are you think of ice skating in Chicago by the Bean in Millennium Park. The closest rink to the beloved Cloudgate sculpture is the McCormick Tribune Park and Ice Rink. With over 100,000 skaters a year ,it’s easily the most popular ice rinks in Chicagoland, with the best price: it’s free! Just bring your skates or money for skate rental, and then, glide beside Michigan Avenue between Washington and Madison Streets.
Ice Skating in Chicago on the Ice Skating Ribbon
There are rinks and there are ribbons in Chicago. When you visit the Ice Skating Ribbon in Maggie Daley Park at 337 E. Randolph Street, you’ll have the unique experience of outdoor ice skating in Chicago along a trail with views of the park’s sculptures and the city’s skyscrapers, including Willis Tower. Shaped like a trail instead of an oblong rink, the Ice Skating Ribbon offers an ice skating experience you’ll only find in Chicago. The ribbon opens on November 19th. Prices vary from free to $22.
Ice Skating in Chicago’s Beautiful Parks
If you like ice skating in a less bustling, more pastoral setting, check out these outdoor ice skating locations in the Chicago Park District. Admission at all Chicago Park District ice rinks is free, and skate rentals are $7.
- McKinley Ice Rink at 2210 West Pershing Rd. in the McKinley Park neighborhood
- Midway Plaisance Ice Rink at 1130 Midway Plaisance North, at the site of the World’s Fair in Hyde Park
- Riis Ice Rink at 6100 West Fullerton Ave. in Belmont Central
- Warren Park Ice Rink at 6601 North Western in Rogers Park
Enjoy Outdoor Ice Skating in Chicago and More!
This winter, enjoy all that Chicago has to offer! Contact us for more information about how to enjoy Chicago’s winter wonderland, or join us to warm up after skating with dinner at one of our restaurants!