Take in the holiday lights or shop 'till you drop. We'll be waiting for you with complimentary hot chocolate, an indoor pool and really GREAT seasonal rates. We believe the best part of the holiday season is spending time with friends and family and the joy of giving. We've compiled out favorite things to so this Holiday in season in downtown Chicago, you're helpful guide to creating memories that last a lifetime or simply finding that perfect gift. On weekends you'll even find complimentary Holiday Cookies in the lobby. Ice Skating On shimmering winter days, Chicagoans love gliding around one of the city's many free outdoor ice rinks. Whether it's the scenic rink at Millennium Park just below Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”), the skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park or the kid-sized rink just outside Lincoln Park Zoo. Shopping Chicago is a shoppers' paradise, especially during the holidays. Stroll high-end designer showrooms and mega shopping malls along The Magnificent Mile. Shopping malls include Water Tower Place, 900 North (Bloomingdales) and the Shops at North Bridge. All are within walking distance of Best Western River North Hotel. And where can you admire the extravagant holiday window displays in the Loop? at Macy's on State Street of course! Don't forget to stroll the authentic German Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza to buy beautiful glass ornaments, handmade cuckoo clocks, and more Old World Crafts. Or just enjoy German fare and sip cocoa or mulled wine. Family Friendly The city is packed with family-friendly winter activities. Wander through ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo, a breathtaking display of more than two million holiday lights. Next, head to Navy Pier for Winter WonderFest, a massive indoor amusement park of bouncy houses, climbing structures, and even a skating rink. Explore more kid-friendly holiday activities in Chicago. Special Treats Warm up with the city's most over-the-top creations, like a cup of the famous cocoa at Mindy's Hot Chocolate or the Instagram-worthy cups at a BomboBar, a popular walk-up window in the West Loop neighborhood. Museums Experience Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light at the Museum of Science and Industry, with 50 trees decorated to represent different countries and holiday traditions. At the Art Institute's Thorne Miniature Rooms, the tiny rooms have been decked out in pint-sized festive decorations. Theatre With the holidays near, here is a list of a few shows that may get you in the holiday spirit! Irving Berlins White Christmas Dec 10-15 Cadillac Palace Theatre 151 W Randolph Twas the Night Before Christmas November 29 – December 8 The Chicago Theatre 175 N State St. Joffrey Ballet – The Nutcracker November 30 – December 29 Auditorium Theatre A Christmas Carol November 16 – December 29 Goodman Theatre
