Are you tired of the dreary and cloudy Chicago winter days?? Are you ready to forget about the cold and have some fun?! If so, you’ve come to the right place!
Chicago is arguably one of the best cities in the world and it would probably be the best if it weren’t for winter (it’s so lame, right). But, don’t let that get you down. Instead, think about all of the fun things that Chicago still has to offer even during these cold months.
If you’re willing to fight the frigid temps (and maybe a polar vortex) just long enough to commute to an indoor destination, then I can assure you there’s something on this list for you!
Below is a list of the best indoor activities in Chicago! The list is sorted by neighborhoods and begins in Hyde Park and works its way up North.
Click on the neighborhood you’re looking for below to be taken directly to that section!
Hyde Park
Museum of Science and Industry:
- The largest science center in the Western Hemisphere!
- Don’t miss out on the free days for Illinois residents:
- January 9–11, 16–18, 23–25, 30–31
- February 1–2, 6–9, 13–14, 16, 21
Chinatown
88 Marketplace:
- Chicago’s largest Chinese supermarket
- Grocery store and food court in one!
Fulton Market
Puttery:
- This new, modern mini golf spot has an upscale vibe and features craft cocktails
Chicago Blackhawks Game:
- Great idea for a fun, lively night out
- Snag your Blackhawks gear here:
Brooklyn Boulders:
- Spacious rock climbing facility and yoga classes all in one place
Punch Bowl Social:
- Bowling, karaoke, giant Jenga, foosball, and a photo booth
Time Out Market:
- This market brings all of the best restaurants to one place for your convenience
- There’s definitely something for everyone in your party here
The Loop
Flight Club:
- Darts bar – perfect for after-work happy hours
AceBouce:
- Ping-Pong tables as far as the eye can see
River North
Three Dots and a Dash:
- Head here if you’re looking for a tropical speakeasy, you won’t regret it
Headquarters Beercade:
- Arcade bar featuring craft beers and cocktails
The Escape Game:
- Four different escape room experiences to choose from (but trust me, they are tricky)!
Streeterville
Winters Jazz Club:
- Live jazz acts 6 nights a week, don’t walk RUN
Old Town
Second City:
- There’s truly a comedy show for everyone here
Zanies:
- Another comedy club in Chicago!
- If you want to have a good laugh in the city, just head to Old Town, these places are less than a block apart
Bucktown
WhirlyBall:
- This game combines lacrosse, hockey, basketball, and bumper cars
- Not only is there WhirlyBall here but there’s also bowling and laser tag
Wicker Park
Big Mini Putt Club:
- 9-hole mini golf course in a laid-back pub-style atmosphere
Winter Market Series:
- Farmers Market and Makers Market in the Robey on select Sundays
Emporium:
- Arcade games, live music, and craft beer (multiple locations too!)
Lincoln Park
kibbitznest:
- Books, brews, board games, and CDs
Kingston Mines:
- World-famous blues nightclub (SO much fun)
Kings Dining & Entertainment:
- Bowling, drinking, eating, and more bowling
Lakeview
Bottle & Bottega by Painting with a Twist:
- BYOB painting classes
- If you don’t feel like leaving the house, though, try your own paint-by-numbers:
Replay:
- Free vintage arcade games
Andersonville
Chicago Magic Lounge:
- Speakeasy and magic bar all in one, you won’t want to miss this!
Antique Stores:
- Andersonville has some great antique stores such as:
- Andersonville Antiques
- Roost
- Mercantile M
- Scout
- Wooly Mammoth
Let me know in the comments about other fun things to do in Chicago in the winter!