Surviving a Chicago winter can feel like an epic adventure, especially if you’re not used to our low temperatures and the wind chill factor from Lake Michigan. But when you know where to look, the city transforms into a snowy wonderland, and Chicagoans revel in the frosty festivities. If you’re new to town, here are a few ways to enjoy the Windy City's winter wonderland!

Tips for Surviving a Chicago Winter

Surviving a Chicago winter involves practical preparation and a resilient mindset. Here are a few essential tips to navigate the challenges of the chilly season:

• Dress in Layers. Start with thermal undergarments, add insulating layers, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer.
• Get a Good Winter Coat. A warm, well-insulated coat, waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat are essential. Consider thermal socks and a scarf to further protect against the cold.
• Stay Up to Date on Weather Conditions. Keep an eye on weather forecasts to anticipate extreme conditions. Chicago winters can bring snowstorms and sub-zero temperatures, so plan accordingly.
• Watch Where You’re Walking. Keep an eye out for icy sidewalks and streets. Invest in slip-resistant winter boots, and walk cautiously.
• Stay Hydrated and Moisturized. Cold weather can be dehydrating, and indoor heating can dry out your skin. Drink plenty of water and use moisturizers to combat the effects of winter on your body.
• Embrace Chicago’s Public Transportation. Chicago's public transportation system is well-equipped to handle winter conditions. Consider using buses and trains to navigate the city without dealing with the hassles of driving in the snow.
• Prep Your Vehicle. If you drive, equip your car with snow tires, keep an emergency kit, and ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. Drive cautiously on icy roads.
• Stay Active. Physical activity generates heat. Indoor exercises or winter sports are a great way to stay active during this time! 
• Socialize and Beat the Winter Blues. Sometimes, it’s not the cold as much as the gray days. Combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) by staying socially connected. Attend community events or engage in activities that bring you joy during winter.

By combining practical measures with a positive mindset, you can successfully navigate the challenges of a Chicago winter and make the most of the season.

What to Do in Chicago In the Winter

Luckily, there are plenty of winter activities in Chicago to keep you entertained. Here are just a few of them:

Ride The Centennial Wheel At Navy Pier - Did you know these seats are heated? Take in the sites of Chicagoland from a new vantage point with a cup of cocoa and wintertime cheer.

Dine in an Igloo - The upscale Godfrey Hotel offers an igloo dining experience so you can take in a starry winter night without sitting out in the cold. 

Eat Your Way Through Town - Winter is the perfect time to find your favorite deep dish place or try out new cuisine. The 17th annual Chicago Restaurant Week runs January 19th-February 4th, 2024. 

Go Ice Skating - One of the best ways to beat the winter blues is to find a winter sport. Grab your skates and go ice skating at one of the many skating rinks in town, including the Millennium Park Ice Rink or the Wrigley Square Ice Rink. 

Take the Plunge - The Chicago Polar Plunge is set for January 27, 2024, at Oak Street Beach. This is a great way to support an important cause and experience a once-in-a-lifetime chill! Learn more here. 

See Live Theater - Chicago is known for its active theater scene. See a show at Second City, the Goodman, or Lookingglass.  Chicago Theater Week, where theaters across the city offer $15-30 tickets, runs February 8-18, 2024.

Relocating to Chicagoland? Hire AAA Movers

If you plan to move to the Windy City this year, don’t let the temperatures scare you! There are plenty of ways to stay warm during the winter months. 

AAA Movers can relocate you to Chicago with ease and efficiency. We’ve been moving folks just like you for decades now, and we know our way around this city’s nooks and crannies.

Schedule a free quote for your Chicago movers!

Related Reading: 

• 15 Things to Know Before Moving to Chicago
• The Ultimate Guide to Chicago Neighborhoods