As we bid farewell to 2025, it’s time to welcome 2026. Even with Chicago’s harsh winter setting in, there are still many great activities to explore in the city this January.
From new exhibitions and to new restaurants, here’s a roundup of everything you can look forward to in Chicago this January.
Ice skate at Maggie Daley Park
There’s no better way to glide into 2025 than with some winter skating. One of the best activities in Chicago during January is ice skating at the Maggie Daley Park ice rink.
This rink offers a quarter-mile ribbon of ice in the heart of Chicago. The winding track curves up and down alongside a 40-foot climbing wall, all set against the stunning backdrop of the city’s skyline.
Cruise Down the Chicago River in a Hot Tub Boat
If you’re looking for a cozy way to explore downtown this winter, look no further than the Chicago Boat Company’s hot tub cruises.
The vessel features a floating hot tub that accommodates approximately five people. The boats also come equipped with a phone holder, floating cup holders, and a Bluetooth speaker.
Check out the best of Chicago’s vegan-friendly restaurants.
The start of the new year symbolizes fresh beginnings for many people. While some are determined to change their habits throughout the year, many others participate in initiatives like ‘Dry January’ or ‘Veganuary.’
If you’re one of those taking part in Veganuary, we’ve put together a list of the best vegan restaurants in Chicago for brunch, snacks, and dining out. This way, you can easily discover and enjoy the best vegan options while taking part in one of our favorite activities in Chicago during January.
Be captivated by a Candlelight Concert
Step into some of Chicago’s most beautiful venues for unforgettable performances surrounded by thousands of candles.
The beloved Candlelight series has organized a lineup of talented musicians who will perform in the city’s best spaces, all illuminated by hundreds of candles.
Discover Chicago’s top mocktail destinations
Embrace dry January 2026 with Chicago’s top mocktails! Enjoy sophisticated non-alcoholic drinks at upscale venues like Fioretta, Esmé, and Galit, where culinary expertise is applied to create exquisite mocktails.
Get free entry to the Field Museum on a Wednesday
The Field Museum is one of Chicago’s excellent museums, offering free admission this January. Illinois residents can enter the popular natural history museum for free on Wednesdays from 9 AM to 5 PM, provided they present proof of residency.
Gaze at the stars at the Adler Planetarium for free
One fantastic free experience in Chicago is the Adler Planetarium! The Planetarium offers free admission for Illinois residents every Wednesday evening from 4 to 10 PM. During your visit, you can enjoy access to the largest public telescope in the Midwest, along with a variety of exciting astronomy events and activities.
Enjoy curling and cocktails at the Gwen Hotel
One of the best things to do in Chicago in January can be found on The Gwen Hotel’s luxury rooftop. Curling sessions come with small bites and a complimentary round of cocktails, meaning you can sip away on your favorite tipple while battling your friends on the state-of-the-art curling rink.
Revel in one of Chicago’s best speakeasies
Escape to a sky-high retreat at the Four Seasons Hotel, located above the Magnificent Mile. This exclusive cocktail destination promises a memorable experience filled with vibrancy, style, and innovative drinks.
Visit the Art Institute of Chicago for free
Free admission is available from 11 a.m. until closing each weekday: 5 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and 8 p.m. on Thursdays. Additionally, the museum is always free for Chicago teens under 18, all children under 14, Link and WIC cardholders, active-duty military personnel, and current Illinois teachers and homeschool parents.
Try one of Chicago’s best new restaurants
Navigating the dining scene in Chicago can be challenging, especially with random TikTok recommendations and Google’s constantly changing algorithms. To simplify things for you, we’ve put together a definitive list of the best new restaurants in Chicago. Check it out here!
