Come experience a classic Chicago winter tradition. Each November, the city is filled with an array of charming ice rinks that pop up all across the city. These seasonal rinks are a beloved winter experience for locals and visitors alike.
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You can glide around on one of Millennium Park’s scenic ice rinks or get on the ice in one of our many neighborhood parks around Chicago for a day filled with wintry fun. Check out our roundup of the many seasonal ice skating rinks all around the city.
Millennium Park ice skating
Ice skating in Millennium Park is a cherished Chicago tradition. The downtown park is home to two unique public ice rinks each winter.
You can glide along in the shadow of “The Bean” and the lights of Michigan Avenue, then take a spin on the one-of-a-kind ribbon of ice that winds through Maggie Daley Park. It’s the perfect winter activity for families, date nights, and beyond.
McCormick Tribune skating rink
Nov. 15, 2024 through Feb. 2, 2025
Now in its 21st season, the McCormick Tribune skating rink in Millennium Park is a bucket-list experience, drawing more than 100,000 skaters each year. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking wintery views of Chicago, including the downtown skyline, the magical lights on the city’s towering Christmas tree, and all the holiday lights reflected on the shining surface of The Bean.
Admission is free, but online reservations are required. Skate rentals are available.
Skating Ribbon in Maggie Daley Park
Nov. 25, 2024 – March 9, 2025
Maggie Daley Park, right next to Millennium Park, is home to a picturesque Skating Ribbon that meanders around snow-dusted pine trees and whimsical play spaces — all with soaring skyscrapers as your backdrop. The path is twice the length of a lap around a traditional skating rink, which means twice the fun for skaters.
Advanced reservations are required, skate rentals are available, pricing varies.
Explore more: Check out our guide on the top things to do during winter in Chicago.
Chicago neighborhood ice rinks
Midway Plaisance ice skating rink
November – February
In historic Hyde Park, the Midway Plaisance ice skating rink is located at the site of Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair and is surrounded by the striking gothic architecture of the University of Chicago. Drop in for a game of hockey or an ice skating lesson on select dates. The rink is nestled between Jackson and Washington Parks, which are both excellent spots for a scenic winter walk.
The rink is typically open daily throughout the season. Admission is free; skate rentals and skate aids for those learning to skate are available. Specialty sleds that allow people of all abilities to skate together are available to use free of charge.
Warren Park ice rink
November – February
One of the city’s biggest public parks, Warren Park is located in the West Ridge neighborhood. In the winter, you’ll find locals twirling on the seasonal ice rink. Hockey games and skating lessons are open to the public on select dates. Afterward, warm up with authentic Indian, Pakistani, and Middle Eastern dishes on nearby Devon Avenue, where you can sample cuisines from around the world.
Admission is free, skate rentals and skate aids for those learning to skate are available. Specialty sleds that allow people of all abilities to skate together are available to use free of charge.
Explore more: Discover magical holiday traditions in Chicago’s neighborhoods.
Mount Greenwood Park ice rink
November – February
The rink at Mount Greenwood Park is the perfect spot for beginner skaters. The large rink also hosts hockey games and ice skating lessons.
Admission is free, skate rentals and skate aids for those learning to skate are available. Specialty sleds that allow people of all abilities to skate together are available to use free of charge.
Keep exploring: Bring the kids to the nearby Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn.
Rooftop ice rink
The Sky Rink at The Peninsula Chicago
Nov. 22, 2024 – Feb. 2, 2025
The only hotel ice skating rink in the city, The Sky Rink is perched high above the hustle and bustle of Michigan Avenue. Located on a fourth-floor terrace overlooking The Magnificent Mile, this charming rink is bathed in festive music and snowflake lighting. Warm up with the outdoor menu that features hot beverages and seasonal treats.
The Peninsula is located on The Magnificent Mile, one of the city’s most famous shopping districts. Stroll the famous street to see it all lit up for the holidays.
The price of admission includes skates and benefits children’s charities. The rink is also available for groups to rent or for private events such as marriage proposals.
