Elegant and sophisticated, eclectic and fun — all with a dash of midwestern charm. Chicago is a city beyond compare, and during the holidays, its magnificence shines.
This winter wonderland is a perfect place to get away and celebrate the holidays in style. Yet with so much to do and see, where to begin? To make the most of your stay this holiday season, here are some can’t-miss things to do — each sure to delight and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Embark On A Holiday Shopping Spree
‘Tis the season to find a great gift for family, friends – or yourself. While in Downtown Chicago, be sure to visit these iconic locales, where shopping has become an artform.
The Magnificent Mile
The Mag Mile, as it’s known to locals and those in the know, boasts over 460 shops on Michigan Avenue, as well as around 275 restaurants, entertainment venues and offices with stunning skyline views. Chicago Magnificent Mile, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club is just steps away from this celebrated destination and other well-known attractions.
State Street
Not to be outdone, State Street is a fascinating destination where you’ll not only find an abundance of first-rate shops and dining, but a number of notable attractions. Where else can you find the Chicago Archbishop’s Mansion, Holy Name Cathedral, the Chicago Theater, the Marshall Field and Company Building and the original Playboy Mansion?
Explore A Charming Holiday Market
An outdoor holiday market is an ideal way to kick off the holidays, filled with an assortment of gifts, events, food and fun for the whole family.
Christkindlmarket
This quaint German-style outdoor market traditionally opens the Friday before Thanksgiving Day and runs through Christmas Eve. It features local and international purveyors of unique gifts and traditional fare, such as mulled wine and fresh roasted chestnuts. Located in Downtown’s Daley Plaza, Christkindlmarket also hosts holiday events and cultural activities that offer fun for the whole family.
Savor A Post-Shopping Recharge
After an afternoon of shopping, sit back and spoil yourself with a bite to eat at one of these popular dining establishments.
The Walnut Room
Located in Macy’s on North State Street, The Walnut Room is known for its elegant, yet comfortable dining room featuring Circassian walnut paneling and Austrian chandeliers. During the holidays, there’s an elevated 45-foot Christmas tree ideal for taking pictures under. The cuisine is sophisticated comfort food and includes its famous Mrs. Hering’s 1890 Original Chicken Pot Pie and Walnut Room Salad. Call ahead for reservations and dress code during the holiday season.
Coq d’Or At The Drake Hotel
This cozy, historic establishment opened on December 6, 1933, upon the appeal of Prohibition. The vibe offers a snapshot of the era, with rich wood paneling, red leather chairs and ambient lighting. The menu offers upscale comfort food, with everything from The Drake Burger to The Drake Lobster Roll. It also has an extensive wine and specialty cocktail list.
Wonder At Twinkling Seasonal Lights
ZooLights At Lincoln Park Zoo
This much-anticipated attraction enamors locals and visitors alike. Featuring a twinkling light maze, masterful ice carvers, a winding light tunnel on the main mall and a soaring Ferris wheel providing a bird’s eye view of the shimmering lights below it is a treat for the whole family.
Light Up The Lake At Navy Pier
Known as Chicago’s largest indoor and outdoor holiday attraction, Light Up the Lake presents an array of holiday light displays that are sure to amaze and put your family in the holiday spirit. Not to miss, a ride on the enclosed Centennial Ferris Wheel and Navy Pier’s outdoor ice-skating rink. When things get a bit too chilly, warm up by a cozy fire pit and dance to live music every weekend.
Where To Stay In Chicago
To get the most from your stay this holiday season, we recommend the Chicago Magnificent Mile, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, located on the top floor of DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago - Magnificent Mile. You’ll enjoy the convenience of being just blocks away from The Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, and Riverwalk, and within a mile of The Art Institute of Chicago and the 360 CHICAGO observation deck.
Discover why a holiday spent with Hilton Grand Vacations is the perfect gift for yourself and your loved ones.