Here’s to a Fabulous February in the Windy City!
Searching for the best activities and events in Chicago this February?
Wondering what to put in your February 2023 itinerary?
Seeking exciting ways to spend time with your family and friends?
Then this is the blog post you’re looking for!
The best February events and activities in Chicago
It's the shortest month of the year, and it remains pretty cold and snowy around here.
However, don't let that hold you back.
There are plenty of exciting things to do in Chicago during February, both indoors and outdoors.
From just lolling around in the snow, having snowball fights, and so on, to going on thrilling escape room adventures and rekindling your relationship on Valentine's Day - here are the top Chicago attractions to look forward to this February!
Go ice skating
Are you searching for a thrilling outdoor activity during freezing February?
Skate up and go ice skating!
Take in the crisp, cold air and admire the wintry February scenery while having a memorable experience.
Head to popular locations like Millennium Park and Gallagher Way to hit the ice.
Don't have your own skates?
Don't worry - many skating rinks in Chicago offer rentals.
The best places in Chicago for outdoor ice skating in February
One of the most popular skating spots in Chicago is the ribbon at Maggie Daley Park, which features Alpine trees along the course.
For breathtaking views of the city skyline while skating, visit the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park.
Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville is home to the Gallagher Ice Rink, which is suitable for skaters of all levels.
In addition to these locations, community and neighborhood skating rinks are scattered throughout the city and suburbs.
Team up with family, friends, and colleagues for a thrilling adventure at Fox in a Box
Looking to beat the February chill with a thrilling, real-life movie-like experience?
Then team up with family, friends, coworkers, and loved ones and head for Chicago’s best-reviewed escape room - us!
From breaking into a bank for a heist to playing mind games in a psychopath’s lair - there are numerous experiences to choose from.
Will you be able to break the codes, undo the locks, and spot the clues fast enough to accomplish your mission in time? Remember, you have only 60 minutes to make your escape!
Looking for a cool February team building event?
Are you planning a team-building event for your coworkers or employees in February?
Check out Chicago's most immersive team building experience.
A perfect opportunity for your team to improve their collaboration and communication skills, reduce stress in the workplace, and strengthen personal relationships…
While having loads of fun!
Our team building packages
Just Rooms (book multiple escape room slots for up to 35 people per session),
Food, Drinks & Rooms (includes appetizers, drinks, and escape games from local restaurants),
Retreats (led by an organizational psychologist with discussions and exercises including escape rooms),
The Final Exam (a mobile team event that can be taken to your location for a day of head-to-head escape room games with up to 90 people in groups of 10).
Website: Visit the home page
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Email: info@foxinaboxchicago.com
Phone: (312) 878-7899
Escape the frigid temperatures at Garfield Park Conservatory
Called "landscape art under glass" the conservatory at Garfield Park is one of the largest in the country.
It's home to thousands of plant species from around the world, displayed across eight indoor themed gardens.
As you would expect, the temperature inside is carefully controlled, making the conservatory a great escape from the winter cold while feasting your eyes on the many different and unique plants showcased there.
Website: Visit the home page
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Email: visitors@garfieldpark.org
Phone: (773) 638-1766
Go on a food tour
Looking for a February experience in Chicago that you can "savor"?
Book a food tour of the city!
Chicago has long been regarded for its exciting, unique, and diverse cuisine!
It's a testament to the various communities who have settled down in Chicago and enriched our city.
From classics like Chicago-style hotdogs and deep-dish pizzas to ethnic cuisines like Greek flaming saganaki and dumplings from Chinatown - there's a world of gastronomic delights awaiting you out here!
Check with various food tour companies like Chicago Food Planet and Sidewalk Food Tours for itineraries.
Admire art at the Art Institute
Do you get fascinated by the differences between a Monet and a Manet
Are you looking to get an insight into the world of fine art?
If so, you should pencil the Art Institute into your February plans!
As one of the largest art museums in the world, the Art Institute boasts a beautiful permanent collection of various art forms, including paintings, photographs, sculptures, and textiles.
In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts special exhibitions, allowing you to see a wide range of artistic styles and mediums.
Whether you're a fan of traditional paintings or contemporary photography, the Art Institute has something for everyone to enjoy.
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Email: Visit their contact page
Phone: (312) 443-3600
Explore the exhibits at MSI
Did you know that you can experience the thrill of aerial combat, tour a World War II submarine, and walk through a coal mine all without leaving Chicago?
These are just a few of the exciting exhibits you can find at the Museum of Science and Industry (MSI).
This iconic Chicago museum, which has been around since 1933, is a treasure trove of scientific discovery, offering a wide range of interactive exhibits that cover a variety of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) topics.
Whether you're just interested in learning more about the world around you or are considering a career in the field, the Museum of Science and Industry is sure to have something that will spark your curiosity and inspire your imagination.
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Inquiry form: Visit their team contact page
Phone: (773) 684-1414
Visit the Field Museum
Wanna catch a glimpse of ancient Egyptian life up close? Or say “hi” to a massive Tyrannosaurus Rex?
Then head for the Field Museum!
From greeting Sue, the resident T-Rex, to learning about flesh-eating beetles and exploring African life, the museum has a variety of exhibits that are sure to pique your curiosity about the natural world and ancient history.
Pro tip: If you're an Illinois resident, be sure to check the Field Museum's website for free admission days, which allow you to explore the entire museum at no cost.
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Inquiry form: Visit their contact page
Phone: (312) 922-9410
Uncover the secrets behind popular illusions at the Museum of Illusions
Here’s one way of getting interested in science: explore popular illusions.
From small everyday tricks like straight lines appearing bent to larger-scale illusions like making your body vanish - find out how they work at our Museum of Illusions.
Whether by yourself or with family and friends, this is a great Chicago destination to head for in February!
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Inquiry form: Visit their team contact page
Phone: (312) 722-6780
Explore the world of frozen treats at the Museum of Ice Cream
Experience an extraordinary world of ice cream at this unique Chicago attraction.
Explore 14 interactive installations, including a Sprink-L train ride, a Putt-Putt course, and a pool filled with millions of sprinkles.
Indulge in delightful frozen treats and immerse yourself in a sensory experience unlike any other at this unique Chicago attraction.
Website: Visit the website
Location: Check address/Plan route on Google Maps
Contact: Visit their team contact page
Attend festive celebrations, and special events
Beat the winter chill with festive verve!
From well-known holidays to cultural festivals, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and experience the city's vibrant communities.
Whether you're looking to learn more about different cultures or simply want to have fun, there are many ways to join in the festive spirit and explore all that Chicago offers.
Rekindle the romance with your significant other (Valentine’s Day)
Take your pick from among a plethora of things to do!
From a romantic Riverwalk stroll and private cruises on the Chicago River, to attending concerts and shows at one of the many renowned venues.
If you're looking for something extra special, take your special someone on a romantic hot air balloon ride over the city and enjoy a beautiful sunset from above.
And, of course, no Valentine's Day celebration is over without a romantic dinner, is it?
Geja's Cafe, Volo's, and The Press Room are some of our suggestions for a dinner date in Chicago!
Date: Tuesday, Febuary 14th, 2023.
Polar Adventure Day at Northerly Island
Looking for an outdoorsy winter experience? Sign up for Polar Adventure Day at Northerly Island!
You can take part in loads of activities ranging from husky-drawn sleds to nature-inspired crafts and marshmallows over a campfire.
The event is organized by the Park District, and it's absolutely free of cost!
Date: Saturday, February 25th, 2023. From noon till 3 pm.
Website: Visit their website
Embrace your inner witch/wizard at Harry Potter: Magic at Play
Have you ever dreamt of Hagrid paying YOU a visit and telling you, "Yer A Wizard"?
That could very well come true this February!
Visit Harry Potter: Magic at Play, a limited-run event.
Ask the Sorting Hat to find out your house, cast spells, and charms, send mail through Owl Post, and grab Honeydukes treats from the Butterbeer Bar!
Date: Till Sunday, February 26th, 2023.
Website: Visit the website
Chicago Restaurant Week
Back for its 16th year with more than 330 local restaurants participating!
Till February 5th, check out special fixed-price menus for brunch ($25), lunch ($25), and dinner ($42/$59) from eateries across Chicago!
This is a great opportunity to try some of the best restaurants in Chicago and sample a variety of delicious dishes.
Date: Till Sunday, February 5th, 2023.
Website: Visit the website
The Chicago Auto Show
Calling automobile enthusiasts!
With more than a thousand vehicles on display, the Auto Show is sure to feature something for you!
From concept cars and classic muscle cars to electric cars and hybrids, there will be plenty to explore and admire.
Plus, you'll get a chance to meet some of the top automotive industry professionals and participate in various activities throughout the event!
Date: Saturday, February 11th to Monday, February 20th, 2023.
Website: Visit the website
Apps and services to help you on your day out
Spothero is a parking service that connects you with available parking spaces and valet services.
Looking for some winter biking? Divvy can hook you up with bikes and docks in real time.
If you’re taking the day off and want to explore the city before the festivities start, check out cityPASS and Go City, which offer deals and priority check-in at various attractions in and around Chicago.
The best ways to enjoy February in Chicago - a final word
And that’s a wrap stuff to look forward to in Chicago this February!
No matter what your taste is, there’s something fun for everyone to enjoy.
From ice skating to escape room adventures, from museum visits to seasonal events - there are numerous options for you to choose from!
So make your plans now - wintertime in Chicago is an experience you won’t want to miss!
BLOGS