Winter Things To Do in Chicago Northwest

When winter blankets the preserves, gliding on cross-country skis or trekking on snowy trails can be unexpectedly peaceful. Several forest preserves in Chicago's northwest suburbs maintain trails that stay open for exploring once the snow falls.

A snowy walk or ski at Busse Woods offers a crisp setting to enjoy fresh snow and spot wildlife. For snowshoeing, Spring Valley Nature Center offers snowshoe rentals, making it easy to explore without needing your own gear. Hikers can also enjoy a stroll around the 2-mile path that encircles Lake Arlington year-round.

Photo Credit: Forest Preserves of Cook County

When snow piles up, area hills become ideal sledding spots, fun for anyone looking for a wintery thrill. Heritage Park, Green Slopes Park, and Sunset Meadows Park in Arlington Heights are great sledding-friendly parks.

Other communities offer family-friendly hills, like Udall Park and Roosevelt Park in Elk Grove Village, North Salk Park in Rolling Meadows, and Meineke Park in Schaumburg, all of which welcome sledders of all ages.

For fans of curling, shoot your shot at Fox & Turtle in Itasca! They have several outdoor curling sheets available to book. Just call ahead! 

Pro Tip: Head to Hole #5 of the disc golf course at Sunny Hill Park in Streamwood for one of the best sledding hills in the area!

Ice skating is another great option when temperatures drop. You’ll find outdoor and indoor rinks throughout Chicago Northwest, including Olmstead Park and Mead Park, both in  Elk Grove Village. In Schaumburg, Timbercrest Park offers nighttime skating and spectator bleachers at their man-made rink.

Arlington Heights has plenty of rinks, too! Legacy Park, Frontier Park, Heritage Park, and Pioneer Park are all great for free skating. Meanwhile, Camelot Park, Hickory Meadows, and Recreation Park boast hockey rinks for those looking for some wintertime competition.

For a year-round option, indoor venues such as West Meadows Ice Arena in Rolling Meadows remain open year-round, regardless of the weather.

When cold weather puts courses on hiatus, check out indoor golf simulators! Schaumburg Golf Club runs a facility with state-of-the-art golf simulator bays. X-Golf Schaumburg also boasts virtual bays that let players experience courses around the world without leaving town.

For a balance of fresh air and a heated bay, 390 Golf Experience in Wood Dale offers TopTracer-equipped technology to keep things comfortable as you perfect your swing this winter. Topgolf Schaumburg also provides fresh air driving year-round, with delicious food and drinks to make for a fun night out

For more winter fun, check out holiday events throughout Chicago’s Northwest Suburbs. Enjoy a theatre experience at one of Metropolis Performing Arts Center's many holiday shows or cozy up with a festive drink at a nearby restaurant or bar after a day of shopping, sightseeing, or winter play.

Winter in the Northwest Suburbs offers plenty to keep you occupied the whole season through. Visit our page to find more Holiday Pop-ups and fill your calendar (and belly) with something warm and spirited this season!