As Chicagoans approach the final stretch of winter, Block Club Chicago staff members have compiled a list of activities and places to visit before spring arrives. The suggestions include cultural experiences, wellness options, outdoor events, and local dining spots.
Quinn Myers shared plans for a comprehensive visit to the Art Institute of Chicago at 111 S. Michigan Ave., noting that Illinois residents can enter free through February 27. “I want to spend an entire day this winter at the Art Institute of Chicago (111 S. Michigan Ave.) in an attempt to look at every painting, sculpture and other work on display in one go. The museum is typically open 11 a.m.-5 p.m., which gives me six hours to accomplish this likely impossible task. Caffeine, snacks and multiple breaks will be required. Or I can try on a Thursday, when the museum is open until 8 p.m. And Illinois residents can visit free of charge through Feb. 27,” Myers said.
Christine Schmidt encouraged exploring neighborhood museums across Chicago such as the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen, Swedish American Museum in Andersonville, National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture in Humboldt Park, and DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center in Washington Park. “Scratch the itch of neighborhood exploration while staying inside this winter: I recommend checking out the range of cultural and art museums scattered across the city — not just the big ones Downtown — especially if it’s in a neighborhood you haven’t been to before,” Schmidt said.
For those seeking relaxation over physical activity during cold months, Delaney Eubanks recommended mobile saunas like Fire & Ice at North Avenue Beach: “I have one simple rule when it comes to gyms: It must have a sauna… So instead of shelling out $100 a month for LA Fitness, I’m shelling out $30 for 30 minutes and heating up in the Fire & Ice mobile sauna at North Avenue Beach.”
Gwen Ihnat described King Spa & Sauna in Niles as a preferred local destination for warmth and relaxation during winter: “Midwinter, I am usually longing for warmth anywhere… Locally, I visit the next best thing: King Spa & Sauna in Niles… Bring a friend and/or a book and stay for hours…”
Animal lovers may find comfort at Cuddle Bunny on North Clark Street. Ella Durchin shared her fondness for spending time there: “I have been a fan of Cuddle Bunny… since it opened in 2020… And yes, you do actually get to cuddle with bunnies.”
Stephen Montemayor highlighted both birdwatching opportunities at Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary—where various waterfowl species are currently present—and visits to blues clubs like Buddy Guy’s Legends or Kingston Mines: “I want to visit the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary… Of course, one must retreat indoors at some point during these cold-weather months…”
Indoor arts activities were suggested by Molly DeVore who advocated gathering friends for craft nights or daily drawing routines as ways to stay occupied indoors during frigid weeks.
Melissa España pointed out that Chicago’s stationery scene has expanded recently with meet-ups held by groups like Cozy Stationery Club or Paper & Pencil shop offering creative social opportunities throughout winter: “Also craft-related: The Chicago stationery scene has exploded in the past year or so…”
Outdoor music events remain available despite low temperatures; Maxwell Evans mentioned attending Music Frozen Dancing festival outside Empty Bottle on February 21 featuring acts like Los Thuthanaka.
Local coffee shops provide both warmth and social spaces according to Francia García Hernández who recommended venues such as Back of the Yards Coffee or Casa Cactus for connecting with others over drinks.
Dining was also emphasized as Leen Yassine explained braving subzero weather is worthwhile when trying new restaurants around different neighborhoods—a sentiment echoed by Janet Rausa Fuller who noted that cold days reduce wait times for popular breakfast items like Kasama’s longanisa sandwich.
Finally, Jake Cox observed that riding public transit during snowfall offers unique city views from above ground trains—a simple way to appreciate winter scenery while staying warm indoors.
These recommendations reflect various approaches residents take each year—from embracing indoor culture and crafts to finding moments outdoors—to manage until warmer weather returns.
