Millennium Park's Ice Skating Rink Is The Perfect Midwest Winter Travel Destination
By Linze Rice|Published January 11, 2024
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Linze Rice
Author
Ope! From the rural cornfields of DeKalb County, Linze is an Illinois native and true Midwestern gal who can make a mean bonfire and whip up a perfect marshmallow salad. Since 2014, her bylines and photography have appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, and Block Club Chicago/DNAinfo Chicago, Only in Your State, and more. She has interviewed Dolly Parton, written about beloved diners along historic Route 66, visited the last Rainforest Cafe in the Illinois, and reviewed luxurious English manor-inspired hotels. Whether it's writing about a local gem or world-renowned establishment, Linze brings a heartwarming and historical perspective to each story, using facts, wit, and personal experience to impress upon readers the importance of culture, food, travel, and all things local. Her favorite destinations in Illinois include Starved Rock State Park, Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood, the charming small town of Sycamore, and historic Rosehill Cemetery. When she's not writing or photographing, Linze enjoys gardening, spending time with her husband and pets, cooking, baking, and grilling, and relaxing with trashy TV.
When I lived in Chicago, there was no shortage of things to do in the winter. Pop-ups, festivals, and twinkling decor last all season long. Yet, as a creature of habit, I have a special place in my heart for the time-tested classics, like ice skating downtown. In fact, many consider ice skating at the Millennium Park Ice Rink to be the best winter activity in Chicago. Having experienced the magic myself, I can understand why this beloved cold-weather destination has become a bucket list must for locals and people across the Midwest, alike.
Located at the McCormick Tribune Plaza along Michigan Avenue between Madison and Washington Streets, the Millennium Park Skating Rink (also known as the McCormick Tribune Skating Rink) is one of the best places for chilly weather outdoor activity in the state. When the Zamboni comes out, you know it's a good sign.
The park attracts more than 100,000 visitors each year, making it one of the city's top destinations in the winter. It's open from mid-November through early March.
Whether you want to skate or simply spectate, there's a place for you here. The rink contains a railing and is for people of all ages and skill levels with free lessons taking place 9-10 a.m. on most weekends.
Admission to the rink is free, though you must reserve a spot online. Ninety-minute skating sessions start at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m., and 9 p.m. every day. Skates are available for rent for children and adults between $16-20. You can also rent a locker for $2 or a skating aid for $10. If you bring your own skates, you can get them sharpened for $9.
Set against the backdrop of a canyon of skyscrapers and glittering lights, the rink glows a snowy white. The vibe is romantic, fun, and free — like straight out of a movie.
When you need to warm up, head into Millennium Hall for some fresh hand-tossed Neapolitan pizzas, cocktails, salads, and appetizers. Pro tip: Say "hello" to "The Bean" while you're in the area — it's right next to the rink!
Napolita Pizzeria and Wine Bar offers great views of the rink from the comfort of its dining room, warmed in part by authentic brick ovens. Whether you're with family, friends, kids, or on a date, this place is a chef's kiss.
