Ice Skate Under The Stars At These 4 Romantic Rinks In Illinois This Winter
By Benjamin Clancy|Published November 28, 2020
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Benjamin Clancy
Author
Benjamin Clancy is the Illinois and Indiana writer at Only In Your State, a doctoral candidate at UNC Chapel Hill in Communication, and an artistic type who has attended the Vermont Studio Center residency in poetry writing and makes something like music as "little other." They grew up in Austin, Texas and currently live in Chicago, IL with their partner, two dogs, and a cat. Get in touch by emailing bclancy@onlyinyourstate.com.
We’ve gobbled our way through our Thanksgiving dinners. That means it’s officially ice skating season in Illinois. While there are rinks all around the state that cater to family fun, a few standout destinations have especially romantic atmospheres perfect for couple’s skates. These four outdoor ice skating rinks stay after open after dark, so you can enjoy a skate under the stars with that special someone this season.
The first ice skating park on our list is a classic for a reason. Maggie Daley Park's ice rink "ribbons" encircle the heart of Chicago, providing you and your boo a gorgeous view of the city skyline while you skate the night away. Maggie Daley Park is located at 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601.
After dark, McCormick Plaza might be the most romantic skating destination in Chicago. One of the city's largest outdoor rinks, McCormick's is also a premiere sight for visitors seeking winter wonder in Chicago, attracting over 100,000 every winter. Skating here is free, aside from skate rentals, so this is a great place for a memorable winter date on the cheap. McCormick Tribune Plaza is located at 1 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60602.
To avoid the hustle and bustle of the downtown skating scene but still have a romantic skate near the city, head to Frozemont. Each year, the village of Rosemont, just outside of Chicago, turns into a winter wonderland. Of its many attractions, the most romantic is Frozemont: an outdoor, iceskating event that's perfect for couples but fits the whole family, too. Frozemont takes place at The Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District, 5501 Park Pl, Rosemont, IL 60018.
If you're looking for skating that's on the less touristy side, the place for you is Geneva Parks. Here, there are outdoor rinks with warming stations that stay open far past sunset for a starry skate with your soulmate. Head to Wheeler Park for you outdoor adventure. The rinks are located at 410, Wheeler Drive, Geneva, IL 60134.
We know this only scratches the surface of scenic skates that make for great dates in Illinois. What are your favorite rinks for a romantic rendezvous? Where do you slink off to for a skate under the stars? We love hearing your tips and seeing your photos. Get in touch!
