Must-See Holiday Lights in Chicagoland This Season
Updated: Dec 16, 2022
'Tis the holiday season in Chicago! Growing up in Oak Park, one of my favorite family traditions that we continue today is to see holiday lights in different areas of Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. I've compiled a list (in no particular order) of some of my family's favorites, in hopes that you can enjoy them this holiday season too!
1. Lincoln Park ZooLights
This truly is a Chicago staple. It is not the holiday season until you enjoy the amazing lights covering the Lincoln Park Zoo. Tickets are required, but they are only $5 and offer free nights every Monday. The zoo provides an immersive experience with plenty of space to wander and watch. Along with lights, they offer photos with Santa, live ice carvings, roaming Christmas carolers, a holiday pop-up bar, and more. Especially if this is your first holiday season in Chicago, it is a must-see.
2. Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum
Located in the western suburb of Lisle, the Morton Arboretum offers an amazing (and in my opinion, underrated) experience. 2022 is the first year post-Covid that they are offering walking-friendly light shows, as opposed to drive-through only. It has been totally revamped and I've heard is better than ever (I still have to make my way there this year, but I still have time)! Another great perk offered is plenty of free parking!
3. Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
Another great option for an impressive show is at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. Here, you can enjoy a 1.25-mile-long path with incredible views and holiday spirit! Tickets are staggered in 15-minute increments to avoid feeling too crowded, and the path is open until 11 pm. As a plus, there are SO many photo-ops!
4. Macy's Windows on State St & the Walnut Room
Undoubtedly the most famous and typical "Chicago-feeling" light experience is seeing the Macy's State Street Holiday Windows. Even though this is a tradition that started in 1870, it still somehow seems to get better each year. While you're there, you must head inside to see the Great Tree in the famous Walnut Room. This is my top recommendation if you're looking to have a magical child-like Christmas feeling.
5. Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic
I always love seeing the Brookfield Zoo in a different "light!" Holiday Magic offers tons of fun activities in addition to the obvious light shows. You can find a gift shop, a place to drop letters to Santa, food and beverage options, and a skating rink with synthetic ice. There is also a huge tree with lights and music, an illuminated orb, and animal sculptures. Whether you want to walk the whole 2-mile path or explore just a few activities, the Brookfield Zoo always offers a lot of options.
6. Winter Lights at Central Park in Oak Brook
Although this is by far the smallest recommendation I'm giving, this hidden gem of a trail offers a quaint and non-crowded option. This 1/2 mile paved trail is free and accessible, and allows dogs on leashes! I am always impressed by the Oak Brook park district on how many cool elements they can pack into a 1/2 mile and how secluded it feels.
Unless you want to pack all of these attractions in before the holidays conclude, I'm happy to provide some recommendations for the years to come! No matter what your favorite tradition is, I hope that everyone enjoys a happy and healthy season with their loved ones!
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