Winter in Chicago: Sports & Recreation

Author's note: This is the fifth in a series of posts about enjoying Chicago in the winter. The first post was an introduction to this series, the second post talked about Live Theater, the third was on Dance Performances, the fourth was about Music Concerts, the fifth was about Museums & Exhibitions and the sixth was on Festivals, RV Shows & Special Events.

Whether indoors or out, the list of things to do and see in Chicago this winter is endless! For additional event and attraction details, visit the city’s official tourism website www.ExploreChicago.org.

Sports & Recreation
A great sports town with passionate fans, Chicago is home to seven professional teams and dozens of sporting events. During the winter months, catch a Chicago Bulls basketball game or Chicago Blackhawks hockey game at the United Center, just minutes from downtown.

Northerly Island, a 91-acre peninsula that juts into Lake Michigan at the heart of the Museum Campus, is an all-season outdoor oasis for nature enthusiasts. Filled with beautiful strolling paths, casual play areas and a spectacular view of the Chicago skyline, the space is home to Polar Adventure Days January 21 and February 18. Celebrate the season at this FREE event with ice sculptures, sled dogs, storytelling, snowshoe rentals and crafts.

Heat things up on the ice at Millennium Park, where the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink draws skaters of all skill levels for FREE ice skating through March 11 (weather permitting). Chicago Park District's nine outdoor ice rinks are also open for the season for fun across the city in various neighborhoods, even outside Wrigley Field!