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Curator’s statement
There’s something magical about Christmastime in Chicago. Not even the Grinch could resist feeling festive amidst the twinkling lights, ice skating, Christmas markets, and beautifully decorated hotels and restaurants. A Christmastime trip to Chicago will leave you feeling like a kid again!
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Chicago
The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago
In the Gold Coast district, this family favorite delights with oversized rooms, Lake Michigan views and four excellent eateries, including the 12th-floor Italian steakhouse and alfresco bar.
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Park Hyatt Chicago
Where refined elegance meets urban sophistication on the Magnificent Mile.
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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The Langham, Chicago
A Chicago icon set apart by its Mies van der Rohe-designed building, Chicago River and city views, and sleek mid-century style.
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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The Peninsula Chicago
Elegant luxury hotel located in a high-rise in downtown Chicago.
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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The Thompson Hotel, Chicago
A luxury boutique hotel exuding sophistication and contemporary design, nestled within the city's vibrant Gold Coast neighborhood.
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Things to do in Chicago
Christkindle market
This traditional German Christmas market is a must-do when in Chicago for Christmas. I love to grab a mug of hot chocolate or mulled wine and enjoy a snack of candied nuts.
Macy’s on State Street Christmas Windows and Decorations
Marvel at the creative holiday windows at this historic department store. Make sure to go inside to see the gorgeous decorations and head up to the top floor to see the 45-foot Christmas tree in the Walnut Room, a Chicago tradition!
Ice Skating at Maggie Daley Park
What’s more fun than an ice skating rink? An Ice skating ribbon! This ice trail goes through the park and is a delightful Christmastime activity.
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
Enjoy a winter wonderland of more than a million lights as you stroll through this city zoo. Animal sightings, warm beverages, kids activities, and visits with Santa add to the magic!
Christmas Around the World
Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry displays more than 50 trees celebrating the diversity of holidays around the world. It’s a delight for kids of all ages.
Holiday Shows:
Be inspired by the traditional Nutcracker presented by the Joffrey Ballet.
See what’s playing in Chicago’s many theaters.
Enjoy a hilarious Christmas-themed show at The Second City.
Tea at the Drake
The historic Drake Hotel provides the perfect setting for an elegant holiday tea, complete with carolers and a harpist.
Places to eat & drink in Chicago
Bavette’s Bar and Boeuf
Chicago is known for its steakhouses and this one is my favorite. The inside is gorgeous and chic, with exposed brick walls and moody lighting. This is definitely a destination worthy of the holiday season.
RPM Italian
A personal favorite anytime of the year, RPM is especially wonderful on a cold wintery night. I recommend the giant meatball, the 600-day aged prosciutto di parma, and the truffled garlic bread.
Shaw’s Crab House
Shaw’s is the perfect setting for a celebratory Christmastime dinner or Sunday brunch. We love the oysters at the raw bar and the amazing selection of crab.
Rose Mary
This cozy and hip Fulton Market spot has delicious food that celebrates Chef Joe Flamm’s Italian and Croatian heritage. A hard reservation to snag, but worth the effort to do so!
Girl and the Goat
I love Chef Stephanie Izard’s interesting flavors and the fun atmosphere here. On our recent trip, we especially loved the goat empanadas and chickpea fritters. This is definitely a place to share plates and try lots of different bites!
Pops for Champagne
I’ve been enjoying this champagne bar for years. There is nothing better than stopping by for a glass of fine bubbly and delicious nibbles.
Butch McGuires
It doesn’t get more festive than this family-owned Chicago bar. The decorations are over the top and iconic. There’s a holiday train that travels around the restaurant and a signature drink, “Christmas in Your Mouth".
Travel Advisor
Erica Christie
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Abby Kulwicki’s guide, Chicago Must-Sees.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Chicago.