Outdoor Winter Activities

It is nice to get out of the city every now and then and ditch the gray, melted sidewalk snow for the untouched powder that sits past the city limits. Check out these fun wintertime activities, perfect for the family. They do require a drive but are definitely worth it!

Photo via @treelinesphotography

Photo via @treelinesphotography

Ice Castles

Take advantage of the freezing temps and explore the Ice Castles of Lake Geneva. Just an hour and a half outside of the city sits these handmade explorable sculptures. Fun for all ages (even a great date spot!) these icy masterpieces are like nothing you’ve ever seen before.

Address: 812 Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva, WI 53147 (1.5 hrs from Chicago)
Website: icecastles.com
Instagram: @icecastles_

Eagle Exploration

Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall, all you have to do is haul your crew to Starved Rock State Park for hiking with a stellar view. Starting in mid-January, thousands of eagles migrate to Starved Rock State Park and stay through March. They’re easy to spot as they soar through the sky or perch on the treetops. Bring binoculars!

Address: 2678 E. 873rd Rd. Oglesby, IL 61348 (1.5 hrs from Chicago)
Website: starvedrockstatepark.org
Instagram:@starvedrocklodge

Hit the Slopes

Escape to Nordic Mountain for skiing and tubing! These classic wintertime activities are so much fun and the perfect energizing activity for the kids! Bring your whole squad and make a fun day out of the excursions available.

Address: W5806 County Road W, Wild Rose WI 54984 (3.5 hrs from Chicago)
Website: nordicmountain.com
Instagram: @nordicmountain

Farnsworth House

Experience the holidays in a different decade. Time travel back to the 60’s and explore this unique architectural dream house. Be sure to check out the history of this home and what makes it so interesting!

Address: 14520 River Rd. Plano, IL 60545 (2 hrs from Chicago)
Website: farnsworthhouse.org
Instagram: @farnsworthhouse

Suit Up!

In my search of new activities to do this winter with the kids we took a trip to my friends unbelievable apartment in River North. An incredible interior, stunning views of the city and even a steaming jacuzzi in December! Who knew places like that exist! I had to drag the kids out of the pool - they absolutely loved it! Such a fun day with extremely unexpected entertainment.

(Photography by Nikko Salgado)