Who knew Chicago would be such a festive place to be around the holidays? I recently did a media trip to Chicago to experience what the city has to offer during the holiday season, and it surpassed all my wildest expectations. From indulging on deep dish pizza to visiting the largest Starbucks in the world to seeing the city in a glass box from 1,353 feet above, Chicago has everything to offer and then some.
I’ve never been a fan of domestic travel as I am always looking outside of the US for new experiences, but Chicago has shown me some incredible experiences that really changed the way I see what the US has to offer.
If you are ever planning a trip around the holidays, definitely put Chicago on your list. The city is decked out for the holidays with all kinds of activations and festivities. Here you will find a list of city’s musts along with some highlights from my trip.
The Skydeck
You’ve seen it all over social media, but it is a whole different experience to be here in person. This is a definitely must on your Chicago list. We were treated to a special breakfast at Skydeck where the whole place was shut down for just our group to enjoy and take photos. This is the place to visit to get that photo moment from Chicago for all your social media outlets!
https://theskydeck.com/
Chicago Helicopter Experience
This was hands down one of the most thrilling experiences I’ve had on a trip. Words cannot describe the astonishing view from above. For those of you that are looking to get the perfect shot with the helicopter, they’ve got you covered. They have staff there to take photos of you before you get on the helicopter so don’t worry about taking your own photos. This is definitely a once in a lifetime experience that I recommend for anyone looking to see the city in a special way.
https://www.chicagohelicopterexperience.com/
Tilt at 360 Chicago
If you are looking for a thrill, look no further than the Tilt at 360 Chicago. The Tilt is an enclosed, glass and steel moveable platform that holds up to eight visitors per cycle. The platform tilts outward generating a downward-facing view of Chicago – from one thousand feet above The Magnificent Mile.
https://360chicago.com/tilt/
106th Annual Christmas Tree lighting Ceremony
If you are visiting Chicago around November, try to plan it around the tree lighting. The entire city comes together with performances and fireworks. If you’re looking for a clean shot with the tree, the best time to take a photo with the tree is right before the park closes on a weeknight.
Festival of Lights Christmas Parade
I had the honor of riding in Choose Chicago’s float this year going down The Magnificent Mile. It was one of the major highlights of the trip being part of a parade and seeing the whole city come together to celebrate the holidays.
Holiday train
Now this is something I’ve never seen before. Chicago Transit Authority decorates one of its trains, inside and out, with twinkling lights and festive decorations. There is Santa waving to boarding passengers from his sleigh on an open-air flatcar with elves serenading riders between stops. You would think you’ve walked into a scene from the movie Elf, but in real life. If you’re in Chicago around the holidays, look up the train schedule to make sure you don’t miss this experience!
https://www.transitchicago.com/holidayfleet/
Sofitel Chicago
I stayed at the Sofitel Chicago during my trip and it was conveniently located in downtown within walking distance to Michigan Avenue. If you are staying here, make sure you make a reservation at their restaurant CDA, it was one of the best meals I had in Chicago. Make sure you order the paella!
https://www.sofitel-chicago.com/
Cloud Gate aka the “bean”
Lastly, your visit to Chicago is not complete without a visit to the “bean”. Many people know the sculpture as the “bean”, but its official title is ‘Cloud Gate’ since 80% of its surface reflects the sky and bends the reflection down into a gate shape. It is actually designed by London-based artist, Anish Kapoor and was poorly received by the city initially during construction, but it now serves as a symbol of Chicago.
If you are into history and architecture, I highly recommend going on Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise. This relaxing 90-minute tour features both indoor and outdoor seating, a full-service bar and snack bar, and is consistently named by locals and visitors alike as the best way to see Chicago. You can book your ticket here- https://www.cruisechicago.com/tours/architecture-tour
Disclaimer: This trip was sponsored by Choose Chicago