Here’s how to begin the new year on a high amidst the icy expanse that is Chicago!
Wondering what there is to do in Chicago in January?
Searching for the best events and activities to include in your itinerary?
Looking for ways to have a blast with your family, friends, coworkers, and loved ones?
We got you!
The best January events and activities in Chicago
Kick 2023 off on a festive note, with the holiday season - and several holiday activities - lingering in the air.
As the month goes on, the icy Midwestern winter settles in, opening up opportunities for so many things to do, ranging from outdoor skating to dining in igloos and teaming up for an escape room adventure.
Looking for special events? Take your pick - from the Chinatown Lunar New Year to Concerts by Candlelight.
Snap your final pics of our official 2022 Christmas Tree
Feeling wistful about Christmas being over? The wait till Christmas 2023 seems too long?
Don’t worry!
Our official Christmas tree will remain up till the ninth - you’ve still got plenty of opportunities to stand underneath it, relive the merriment, and snap pictures to capture the moments.
Date: Till Monday, January 9th, 2023.
Website: Visit the webpage on the City's website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Enjoy yourself at Winterland at Gallagher Way
Not ready to give up on the holiday season just yet? Still yearning to slip into festive fervor?
Head for Winterland at Gallagher Way!
Sip on hot cocoa, enjoy seasonal treats, marvel at the festive decor, and enjoy live performances as you tread through this winter wonderland.
Date: Till Sunday, January 8th, 2023.
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Email: info@GallagherWay.com
Phone: (773) 388-8260
Team up for a New Year adventure at Fox in a Box
Looking to rev up your January with a breathtaking adventure with you at its center? Team up with family, friends, coworkers, and loved ones and head for Fox in a Box Escape Room.
Take your pick from among some of Chicago’s best escape room missions, and set a date for your January escapade!
From breaking into a bank to steal some diamonds to finding your way out of a serial killer’s lair - there are various kinds of scenarios for you to choose from.
Can you keep your wits about you and accomplish your mission before time runs out?
Team building in Chicago
Looking to organize a team building event for your coworkers/employees this January?
Check out Chicago’s most immersive team building experience.
Give your team a chance to rev up their collaboration and communication skills, bust workplace stress, and strengthen personal relationships through a fun activity.
Our team building packages
Just Rooms is our go-to package, in which you just book multiple escape room slots. We can host up to 35 people per session.
Food, Drinks & Rooms offers a full package of appetizers and drinks (soft & hard) from local restaurants in addition to the escape games.
Retreats is our most comprehensive corporate team program, in which we will partner with a noted organizational psychologist who will lead your group through discussions and exercises (including escape rooms), making for a full-scale retreat.
The Final Exam is our mobile team event, which we can take to your location for a whole day of head-to-head escape room games. Up to 90 people can participate in one day in groups of 10.
Website: Visit the home page
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Email: info@foxinaboxchicago.com
Phone: (312) 878-7899
Visit Buddy Guy’s Legends for Buddy Guy’s January Residency
Calling all blues fans and guitar lovers in Chicago and beyond!
It's that time of the year again - when Buddy Guy himself performs at his club for two weeks straight as part of his "January Residency"!
Prepare for a moving evening full of soulful vibes.
Witness one of the pillars of Chicago's blues scene in action, from up close in a truly intimate environment.
Paired with veggie gumbo, cornbread, and their signature jambalaya, this is surely one of the best January experiences Chicago has to offer!
Pro tip: Buddy Guy usually signs autographs after every performance, so take something along!
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Phone: (312) 427-1190
Discover your inner witch/wizard at Harry Potter™: Magic at Play
Do you sometimes feel like discussing the differences between the Confringo spell and the Incendio charm, but then realize you’re the only Harry Potter fan in the room?
Is there someone in the family who pines to be placed in a Hogwarts house by the Sorting Hat, spirit up a Potion, and attend a Defense Against the Dark Arts class?
You’re in luck!
The Harry Potter™: Magic at Play experience lasts till the final days of January, giving you a great destination to place in your calendar.
From training for Quidditch to looking for omens in a Divination class and stepping inside the Forbidden Forest - numerous experiences await!
Check out accessories, collectibles, and novelties, at the Wizarding World™ shop, grab Honeydukes™ treats from the Butterbeer™ Bar, and send a postcard to your Muggle relatives via Owl Post™!
Date: Till Sunday, January 29th, 2023.
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Skate away amongst the icy outdoors
Looking for an exhilarating activity amidst the freezing outdoors?
Strap on a pair of skates and go ice skating.
Breathe in the crisp winter air, marvel at the icy January landscape, and have an unforgettable experience!
Hit the ice near at some of our best-known locations, such as Millennium Park and Gallagher Way.
If you don't have skates of your own, don't worry - most Chicago skating rinks offer rentals.
The best places in Chicago for ice skating in January
Our most famous skating ribbon is the one at Maggie Daley Park. With Alpine trees and “mountains” (rock-climbing walls) lining the course, it offers a unique skating experience in Chicago.
Looking to catch panoramic views of the city skyline as you glide on ice? Head for the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, which is also in Millennium Park..
The Gallagher Ice Rink at Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville welcomes skaters, both newbies and experienced folks.
Apart from these you can find community and neighborhood skating courses throughout the city and suburbs.
Go sledding and snowshoeing
Skiing is a city tradition, but if you’re looking for some other outdoor activities to enjoy with family and friends, go for sledding and snowshoeing.
Picture yourself coasting down a hill on a sled, or snowshoeing through the snowy terrain.
You’ll get some fresh air, exercise, and most importantly - fun!
With Chicago’s winding trails and steep hills, there are plenty of excellent places to try out your new winter sports skills.
Enjoy some fresh air while getting your daily dose of Vitamin D!
Dine in an igloo at the Godfrey Hotel
Chicago’s snow-filled January landscape is the perfect backdrop for an intimate experience with loved ones.
Picture this - you and your loved ones cozying up inside a heated, clear-domed igloo on the rooftop of a hotel.
Gaze at sweeping views of the Chicago skyline as you enjoy specialty cocktails and s’mores - the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
You'll relish every moment of this unconventional dinner experience.
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Inquiry form: Visit their team contact page
Email: info@iogodfrey.com
Phone: (312) 374-1830
Try to catch your favorite shows being filmed
Did you know multiple TV shows and movies, ranging from long-running favorites like Chicago PD to new and limited-run series like Apple TV’s upcoming show Dark Matter, are shot down here?
Depending on shooting schedules, you may be able to catch a glimpse of your fav stars in real life!
Drop in at the Field Museum
From saying “hi” to Sue, Chicago’s resident Tyrannosaurus Rex, to learning all about the flesh-eating beetles (probably where The Mummy got the idea), and marveling at various aspects of life in Africa - there are plenty of opportunities to lose yourself in wonder at the Field Museum.
Pro tip: Check their website for Free Admission Days, on which Illinois residents can explore the entire museum free of charge, before you make your plans.
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Inquiry form: Visit their contact page
Phone: (312) 922-9410
Admire artworks at the Art Institute
Fancy yourself as a bit of an art connoisseur? Feel fascinated by a discussion on the differences between a Monet and a Manet?
Then you know which Chicago landmark should be in your itinerary, don’t you?
One of the largest art museums in the world, the Art Institute has a stunning permanent collection of artworks, complemented by frequent special exhibitions.
From traditional paintings to photography exhibits, from sculptures to textiles (like quilts) - there are all kinds of exhibits waiting to be explored.
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Email: Visit their contact page
Phone: (312) 443-3600
Immerse yourself in STEM at the Museum of Science and Industry
What if I told you that you could explore the inside of a World War II era submarine, walk through a coal mine, and even try your hand at aerial combat…without stepping a foot outside of Chicago?
Surprised?
Don’t be - they’re all exhibits at MSI - the Museum of Science and Industry.
A Chicago icon since 1933, the museum will transport you into an world of discovery.
There's something for everyone. Dive in, discover various wonders of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM, and maybe get inspired to take up a career in the sciences!
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Inquiry form: Visit their team contact page
Phone: (773) 684-1414
Pierce the veil behind popular illusions at the Museum of Illusions
Step into optical illusions and experience impossible objects, tilted rooms, holograms, puzzles, and more!
Whether you're alone or with some friends, this is an exciting activity that will leave your mind spinning!
You should definitely add the Museum of Illusions to your list of wintery things to do.
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Inquiry form: Visit their team contact page
Phone: (312) 722-6780
Get the inside scoop on frozen treats at the Museum of Ice Cream
January isn’t a month you’d generally associated with enjoying ice cream in Chicago, but a trip to the Museum of Ice Cream is so much more than savoring a simple frozen treat!
Step into an extraordinary world of ice cream!
Explore 14 interactive installations, ranging from a thrilling Sprink-L train ride to a fun Putt-Putt course and even a pool filled with millions of sprinkles.
An amazing sensory experience and unlimited treats await you at this unique Chicago attraction!
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Contact: Visit their team contact page
Experience the thrill of skydiving at the iFly Indoor Skydiving Center
Feel your heart racing as you jump out of a plane – without actually having to get on one.
With help from certified instructors, experience that thrilling free-fall effect with complete safety.
Anyone up for the challenge?
They have 3 locations for you to choose from - Lincoln Park, Napersville, and Rosemont.
Website: Visit the website
Catch seasonal festivals and special events
Even amidst the wintry chill, Chicago heats up in January with numerous festivals and special events dedicated to a variety of activities and causes.
Here are some of the best ways to join the festive spirit and explore our vibrant communities.
Revel in the festivities at the Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade
Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit in Chinatown at their official Lunar New Year parade.
Join thousands of attendees to watch marching bands, decorated floats, and traditional lion dancers line up at Wentworth Avenue.
The vibrant processionwill commence at 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue, making its way up to Cermak Road.
Date: Sunday, January 22nd, 2023.
Website: Visit their website
Enjoy the performances at the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival
The Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival is back!
It features some of the most talented puppeteers from all over the world, with more than 100 performances and events scheduled over a 12-day period.
Plus, they’re introducing a new "puppet hub" in the Fine Arts Building on Michigan Avenue.
Here, festival-goers can explore a puppet-themed cafe, watch films in the large Studebaker Theater, and more!
Date: January 14th (Wednesday) - January 29th (Sunday), 2023.
Website: Visit their website
Have a “cheersful” time at NA Day - the beer and spirits festival with a difference
Everything from beer to wine…alcohol-free!
A great chance to say “cheers” without being the only one holding orange juice…and also without worrying about consuming liquor.
Date: Saturday, January 14th, 2023.
Website: Visit their Eventbrite page
Raise a glass to a good cause at Speed Rack
Watch award-winning women bartenders in action and raise a toast to the art…while raising funds for charities supporting breast cancer research.
Enjoy drinks and snacks while contributing to a worthy cause.
Date: Sunday, January 8th, 2023.
Website: Visit their website
Check out 8 Crazy Nights - Chicago’s first and only Hanukkah-themed popup bar
The Graystone Tavern in Wrigleyville will light up with 14,000 blue and white lights, dreidel ornaments, lighted menorah and an array of other holiday decorations, as part of Chicago's only Hanukkah-themed pop-up bar.
Enjoy traditional dishes like latkes, paired with creative options like vodka-infused jelly donuts as you wish everyone 'Chag Sameach!' (Happy Festival!).
Date: Till Sunday, January 8th, 2023.
Website: Visit their website
Concerts by Candlelight
Candlelight Concerts in Chicago is a unique opportunity to experience classical music in an extraordinary atmosphere.
Enjoy different kinds of musical performances, ranging from the works of Taylor Swift to Hans Zimmer's scores,in this one-of-a-kind event that literally creates an enchanting ambiance with its candlelit setting.
Date: Check their website
Website: Visit their website
Making plans for young kids? Check these out!
Skiing and shedding - In our experience, these are as popular among children as they are with grown-ups.
Fox in a Box Escape Rooms - We have "child-friendly" versions of 2 of our escape games that children can attempt by themselves, without adults being present inside the room with them. They’ll enjoy the adventure, while picking up on key skills like communication, quick thinking, and collaboration. For details, please refer to our blog post on child and teen friendly escape rooms.
Dozin' with the Dinos - Families and groups with kids ages 6 to 12 can spend a night at Field Museum, taking part in activities like learning how the ancient Egyptians mummified corpses and exploring popular exihibitions by flashlight.
Museum of Illusions (MoI) - It’s a great way to get your children fascinated with science; they also hold special events for kids; check their events page for details.
Some apps and services you may find helpful
Spothero is a parking service that’ll connect you with available parking spaces and valet services.
Divvy can hook you up with bikes and docks in real time if you want to bike your way around.
If you’re taking the day off and want to explore the city before the festivities start, check out cityPASS and Go City, which offer deals and priority check-in at various attractions in and around Chicago.
January activities in Chicago - a final word
While the winter may not be everyone's favorite time of year, there are still plenty of things to do in Chicago this January.
From outdoor skiing to exploring our museums to teaming up for escape room adventures and frolicking at festivals - there is something for everyone to enjoy.
So bundle up and head out for a fun-filled month!
Featured image by Gary Meulemans on Unsplash.
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