Looking for fun activities to do with grandchildren this winter? Look no further. We’ve collected this list of ideas for seniors and grandchildren of all ages. Whether you’re looking to venture out into the chilly Chicago weather or you’d prefer to keep cozy and warm inside, there’s something for everyone here.
Outdoor Activities Near Lombard
Winter means cold weather in the Midwest, but that doesn’t mean you have to hibernate until spring. Check out these great outdoor activities to do with your grandchildren in and around Chicago.
Visit the Zoo
Did you know that Lincoln Park Zoo is open 365 days a year? Even better, the Zoo is free to all guests, just as it has been since the day it first opened in 1868, making it the only privately-managed free zoo in the country.
The zoo features more than 200 unique animal species from around the world. Creatures well-adapted to the cold like polar bears and penguins can be found outside, while furry and feathered friends who prefer warmer weather can be found inside animal houses.
Lace Up Ice Skates
Your grandchildren will love the one-of-a-kind outdoor ice skating experience they’ll get at the Millennium Park McCormick Tribune Ice Rink. Open daily from November 19 through March 6 (depending on weather), the ice rink also offers skate rentals and free lessons. If you’re feeling up to it, lace up your own skates and join the kids on the ice. If you’d prefer to stick to the sidelines, delicious snacks and hot drinks are available right next to the rink.
Admission to the skate park is free, but you’ll need to reserve online skating tickets to save you and your loved ones a place on the ice.
Experience the Christmas Market
If you’re looking for fun things to do with your grandchildren at Christmastime, consider a Christmas market trip. The Christkindlmarket in Chicago is considered to be among the best Christmas Markets in the United States. Visit Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza, Winterland at Gallagher Way or both if you can’t get enough of this German-inspired holiday experience. Food vendors galore, handmade gifts and countless other wintry activities can be enjoyed by guests of all ages.
Indoor Activities to do with Grandchildren
On those days where it’s just too cold to be outside, the Chicagoland area offers plenty of fun things to do with grandchildren indoors. Take a look at these great ways to stay entertained while also staying warm.
Discover Chicago’s World-Class Museums
You can spend days exploring the Chicago Loop’s museums, and you still won’t have seen all there is to see. Whether you’re interested in art, the wonders of space or science and technology of all kinds, you’re sure to find a museum that you can spend hours exploring. The young and young-at-heart are also sure to enjoy the Shedd Aquarium, home to more than 32,000 sea creatures from around the world.
Visit an Indoor Garden
If spring seems too far away, the Lincoln Park Conservatory and Garfield Park Conservatory can help beat your winter blues with beautiful indoor green spaces.
The Lincoln Park Conservatory features exotic plants from around the world in four display houses: Palm House, Orchid House, Fern Room and Show House. While the outdoor areas may be covered by snow, you can expect plenty to see indoors, and admission is always free.
The Garfield Park Conservatory also provides a respite from winter, and offers one of the largest botanical conservatories in the nation. With the various themed collections and the Elizabeth Morse Genius Children’s Garden to explore, you and your grandchildren will have plenty to see. Please note, reservations are free but required for the conservatory.
Indulge in the Chicago Food Scene
Finding fun things to do with teenage grandchildren can often be more challenging than younger siblings. Fortunately, even the most independent teenagers will surely enjoy a meal at one of Chicago’s renowned eateries. Whether you’re in the mood for deep-dish pizza, authentic Italian beef or a Chicago dog, food lovers with all tastes can find something to enjoy.
Chicago’s many coffee shops and dessert cafes can also make great locations to spend time with your loved ones in a laid-back setting. Catch up with your high school or college-aged grandkids over a cup of coffee or delectable dessert and make memories you’ll both cherish for years to come.
Keep Yourself Busy All Year Round at Beacon Hill
When the grandchildren head back home, it can cause a bout of the holiday blues. However, residents of Beacon Hill know that there are numerous ways to stay busy and engaged between visits. Our inviting suburban neighborhood in Lombard, Illinois, just west of Chicago, offers the perfect place to make the most of your retirement years with gourmet dining options, wellness activities catered to your individual interests and five-star health services when you need them.
Want to learn more about Beacon Hill? Contact us and a member of our team will be happy to talk to you. You can even schedule a tour if you’d like to see our community in person.
