Enjoy the season in all sorts of fabulous ways
Article by Andrea Poe
Experiencing a traditional Midwestern Christmas appealed to me in a big way – everything from the snow to the city lights – so, I invested in a bulky winter coat, a trio of scarves, a wool-lined pair of boots and headed to Chi-town to kick off the holiday season. My husband grew up in Chicago, so he gave me a proper warning to fortify against the cold —okay, frigid— weather by wearing layers to combat the effects of the arctic chill that blows in from Lake Michigan. Turns out all that layering was worth it. No city in America does the holiday season better.
Do
There’s something surreal about ice-skating as snowflakes tumble around you. Skate time is free at the rink at Millennial Park. Located by the reflective “bean” Cloud Gate sculpture, the city’s lights cast a magical glow.
The Lincoln Park Zoo goes all out at the holidays with giant snow globes, live music and holiday crafts. And don’t leave without getting your little ones on the unique engendered species carousel.
Navy Pier throws a Winter Wonderfest that everyone from toddlers to grandparents will like. The capstone is the 42-foot tree that sparkles for the holidays. The tamest among you may gravitate toward the carousel as I did, while the more adventurous may do an ice wall climb.
Taking refuge from the cold is beneath the glass domed ceiling at the Lincoln Park Conservatory. Highlights of The Winter Flower and Train Show include a vibrant display of poinsettia and model trains in constant motion that weave amid the foliage.
Hydrate your winter skin and get off your feet at The Spa at Palmer House, an oasis tucked amid the bustle of downtown. Linger awhile in the calm relaxing room, where you can sip tea or wine and nurse your holiday spirit back to life.
Shop
No visit at the holidays to Chicago is complete without a proper stroll along the Magnificent Mile along Lake Michigan. Today, it is mostly lined with big name stores, but that doesn’t diminish the impact of the opulent winter displays. When the chill gets to you, pop inside 900 N. Michigan Shops, where tony boutiques like Gucci will warm up your wallet.
Lincoln Park is best known for its college bars since DePaul University is in the hood, but during the daytime you’ll be won over by the handsome brick row houses flanked by old growth trees. You can still find treasures at neighborhood joints, like the significant vinyl stash at Dave’s Records.
Andersonville is a funky neighborhood beloved by locals who pride themselves on a commercial district utterly devoid of big box chains, a rarity in Chicago. Stick around in the evening and grab a table at the Chicago Magic Lounge, a reinvention of the old-school magic clubs, where magicians perform tableside.
Stay
For the holidays it’s hard to beat a stay at an iconic Chicago property. Two of the most historic happen to deliver big-time holiday charm. The Drake, an affordable 1920s-era hotel nestled in the heart of the Gold Coast, has coffered ceilings, crystal chandeliers and plaster friezes that set the stage for a soaring Christmas tree. Ask for a room with a view of Lake Michigan. Nearby, in the heart of the Loop sits The Palmer, which dates to 1873. Although it’s recently been renovated, the hotel has retained its glamorous lobby, including the striking muraled arched ceiling. Plan for a hot toddy in the shadow of the 18-foot Christmas tree in the lobby bar.
Eat
Do as Queen Elizabeth has done and take afternoon tea at Palm Court. Located right on the Magnificent Mile, this the place to hit the pause button from shopping. A limestone fountain and a stratospheric spray of flowers set the tone for a civilized experience of scone sampling.
Perched atop the Chicago Athletic Association, Cindy’s is an only-in Chicago spot. Its elegant rooftop atrium with views of Lake Michigan is where to go downtown for seriously good food, like bacon wrapped trout and artisanal cocktails.
Duck into Potter’s Chicago Burger Bar for a casual family lunch of big juicy burgers, all of which are named for the city’s neighborhoods and milkshakes (spiked, or not). Located a short walk from the Art Institute