Although February is the shortest month of the year, it can often feel like the longest due to its cold weather. However, it is a month filled with events, including Valentine’s Day, Black History Month, Lunar New Year, and Mardi Gras. With so much happening, it’s hard to believe February has only 28 days!
Here is a list of the best activities to enjoy in Chicago this February, designed to keep your spirits high and your soul happy.
Experience the Unique Hot Tub Boats in Chicago This Winter
Chicago Electric Boat Company’s Hot Tub Boats are returning for another season, offering a unique winter experience on the city’s waterways. These special boats combine the comfort of a hot tub with the thrill of a boat ride, allowing you to cruise through Chicago’s iconic cityscape while staying warm and cozy.
Each boat is equipped with underwater lights, Bluetooth speakers, and a BYOB policy, making it an unforgettable experience!
Candlelight concerts provide an incredible experience this month. Enter some of Chicago’s most beautiful venues to enjoy unforgettable performances. The beloved Candlelight series has organized a lineup of talented musicians, performing in the city’s finest spaces illuminated by hundreds of candles.
Enjoy a day at the Shedd Aquarium for free
Chicago is home to a remarkable array of world-class museums and attractions; however, visiting them all can be expensive. Fortunately, winter is often when many of these attractions announce free admission days for Illinois residents.
One such beloved attraction is Chicago’s aquarium, which will offer numerous free-admission days throughout winter. These free days are scheduled for February 3-5, 10-12, 17-19, and 24-26.
Get free entry to the Field Museum on a Wednesday
The Field Museum is one of Chicago’s amazing museums that is offering free admission this month. Unlike other museums that are providing free entry on select dates in the coming weeks, the Field Museum has announced that starting in 2025, it will be free every Wednesday for Illinois residents.
Catch Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die in theaters
A mysterious stranger claiming to be from the future storms a late-night L.A. diner in this wildly entertaining sci-fi action comedy from Pirates of the Caribbean director Gore Verbinski. Starring Sam Rockwell, Juno Temple, Haley Lu Richardson, Michael Peña, and Zazie Beetz, the film races toward a high-stakes showdown with rogue AI starting February 13—get tickets here!
Drink in a personal snow globe
Among the rooftops creatively reinventing themselves with igloos, fire pits, and more, the Godfrey Hotel in River North stands out as particularly distinctive. It features Chicago’s largest indoor-outdoor rooftop, complete with a retractable roof. The hotel’s annual whimsical winter wonderland is the perfect escape during the cold, dreary winter months.
Enjoy curling and cocktails at the Gwen Hotel
While you won’t find extravagant igloos here, you can enjoy the hotel’s annual Curling and Cocktails experience. Each winter, the hotel transforms its rooftop into an outdoor curling rink, offering a unique experience high above the city.
During the curling sessions, guests can enjoy small bites and a complimentary round of cocktails. This allows you to sip on your favorite drink while competing against your friends on the state-of-the-art curling rink.
Two weeks into this month, we also celebrate the most romantic day of the year. It’s wise to finalize plans for an ideal night of romance early to avoid last-minute pressure. Fortunately, Chicago offers many heartwarming activities to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
Ice skating at Maggie Daley Park
One of the best activities in Chicago during February is the Maggie Daley Ice Rink, which provides an “alpine in the city” experience.
You can skate along a quarter-mile rink located in the heart of Chicago, where the winding ribbon of ice curves up and down around a 40-foot climbing wall, all set against the stunning backdrop of the city’s skyline.
Head to Bub City in River North on Wednesday, February 4, from 10 PM to 1 AM for a Live Band Karaoke Contest!
This is your chance to win two 4-day General Admission tickets to the Windy City Smokeout, taking place July 8-12. Show off your singing skills by belting out your favorite songs from headliners like Blake Shelton, Lainey Wilson, Jordan Davis, and more, all while enjoying some of the BBQ and bourbon. The winner will be determined by popular vote.
Join Sushi-san in Lincoln Park on Saturday, February 7, at 12 PM for an immersive ikebana workshop celebrating the traditional Japanese art of flower arranging.
This workshop, led by Yuko Inoue Darcy, a First Term Master of the Ohara School, blends creativity, history, and artistry. Participants will learn foundational techniques, create a floral masterpiece using provided materials, and explore the rich history of ikebana under Ms. Darcy’s guidance. Seats are limited, so reserve your spot today and take home a handcrafted arrangement to cherish or share!
Joffrey Ballet celebrates dance legends with American Icons
As part of its 70th Anniversary programming, The Joffrey Ballet presents “American Icons,” a captivating program featuring dynamic works by four pioneering artists of the 20th century: Joffrey Ballet co-founders Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, founding alum Glen Tetley, and influential dance pioneer Martha Graham.
Experience the bold and enduring spirit that characterizes The Joffrey’s legacy, showcasing the artistry, versatility, and innovation that continue to advance the world of dance.