Winters in Chicago can be cold, windy and snowy, an unfortunate combination for couples seeking to go out and do something together. But while cuddling under the covers might sound like the best romantic option on a cold winter day in Chicago, if you're willing to venture outside you can find a variety of fun activities for you and your significant other.
Winter Festivals
Polar Adventure Days is a series of Saturday events at Chicago's Northerly Island. The program includes ice sculpting, live animal displays, craft tables and other winter-inspired activities. Another similar option is Snow Days Chicago, an annual weekend event in January in Grant Park featuring snowboarding and a snow-sculpting competition that draws participants from around the world.
Ice Skating
Whether you're an expert skater or you need to cling to your partner just to keep from falling, ice skating can be a very fun activity for couples. The Chicago Park District runs nine ice rinks throughout the city. One of the most popular is the outdoor rink next to Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, where you can choose between morning, afternoon and evening skating sessions. Other skating spots include the Millennium Park rink downtown and the outdoor rink at Midway Plaisance Park.
Cruises
The Chicago River and Lake Michigan are perfect spots for a romantic cruise. Mystic Blue Cruises operates year-round, taking passengers out on the lake about one mile from shore. You can enjoy a romantic dinner and take in the city's impressive skyline, then burn off the calories from your meal by spending the rest of the night on the boat's dance floor. Make your reservations early, especially during the holiday season.
Sightseeing
Even during the winter, you can find a number of places in Chicago to do some walking while seeing some of Chicago's most interesting sights at the same time. If you're willing to brave the elements, visit Millennium Park to see the Cloud Sculpture and Chase Promenade. Couples who enjoy plants and nature may want to head inside and stroll through the Garfield Park Conservatory or Lincoln Park Conservatory. Both are free and feature exhibits all year long.
Observatories
The Willis Tower, formerly called the Sears Tower, is the highest building in the Western Hemisphere and offers breathtaking views of four states from its Skydeck. But many Chicago residents prefer dining in the Signature Room on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center. The view is almost as good, and the upscale restaurant provides couples with an elegant, romantic atmosphere. At the Signature Room you can indulge in steak or opt for slightly healthier dishes like grilled asparagus bruschetta and roasted salmon.
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