Chicago in winter is cold, windy, and absolutely magical. Holiday lights, warm museums, and snowy parks make it a wonderful time to visit, even with a baby. With the right layers and a few indoor plans, you'll stay cozy the whole trip.
What Chicago winter feels like
From December through February, daytime highs are often in the 20s and 30s, and the wind off Lake Michigan makes it feel colder. Snow is common, and sidewalks can be slushy. Plan for short outdoor stretches and warm indoor stops in between.
How to dress your baby for the cold
A good rule of thumb is to dress your baby in one more layer than you're wearing.
Base layer: a snug long-sleeve bodysuit and leggings
Middle layer: fleece or a warm sweater
Outer layer: a one-piece snowsuit or bunting
Extras: a hat that covers the ears, mittens, and warm socks or booties
Feel the back of your baby's neck to check if they're too hot or too cold. Peel off layers as soon as you go inside, so they don't overheat.
For car rides, skip the puffy snowsuit in the car seat. Buckle your baby in with thinner layers, then tuck a blanket over the straps.
Keeping warm on the go
Use a stroller cover or footmuff to block wind and snow.
Try a carrier for short walks. Your body heat keeps your baby warm, and a coat that zips over both of you helps.
Use the Pedway downtown. This network of underground and indoor walkways connects many Loop buildings and stations, so you can skip some cold blocks.
Warm, baby-friendly winter outings
Garfield Park and Lincoln Park conservatories: tropical warmth on the coldest days, and free
Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, and the Museum of Science and Industry: big, indoor, and stroller-friendly
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo: a holiday light display in the evenings during the season
Christkindlmarket: a German-style holiday market downtown, usually from mid-November through Christmas Eve
Check dates and hours before you go, since seasonal events change each year.
What to pack, and what to skip
Pack the warm clothes, since those are personal and important to get right. Skip the bulky gear.
With Arrive Ready Baby, a travel bassinet, a compact stroller, a white noise machine, a diaper pail, diapers in your baby's size, wipes, and formula in your brand are waiting at your hotel or rental when you arrive. That leaves more room in your suitcase for snowsuits.
Cozy up in Chicago
Reserve your Chicago baby box and arrive to a warm room that's ready for your baby.
