5 Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Chicago

New Year’s Eve is approaching quickly, which means that soon we will be saying goodbye to an eventful year. This year, we’ve all had to adapt to celebrating the holidays in unaccustomed ways including wearing masks, social distancing, and gathering virtually. Although there will be no attending large parties, viewing fireworks, or spending New Year’s Eve in busy Chicago bars, there are still other ways you can ring in the new year. Here’s our list of 5 ways you can celebrate New Year’s Eve this year in Chicago.

Stay at a luxury hotel

This year, staycations are in. Instead of going outside in the cold weather, stay warm inside a luxury hotel room. Order room service, watch a movie, play games, and toast the new year. If you don’t have work off, you can even use Marriott’s Work Anywhere Pass and work from a hotel. It can be especially exciting to stay at a hotel with fun features and amenities. Hotel EMC2 has hotel rooms that have both science and art fixtures, from artwork to whimsical touches like open-glass WetLabs. The hotel even has robots named Leo and Cleo who assist guests by bringing them things such as water bottles and towels. If you get hungry or want a beverage, Hotel EMC2 offers room service for drinks, brunch, lunch, and dinner. 

Get takeout from a restaurant

This New Year’s Eve, you might want to consider getting takeout from a restaurant since they will be closed to in-person dining. Chicago is full of many top restaurants, so make sure you do your research by looking at Google reviews or Yelp. You could also try one of Chicago’s Michelin-rated restaurants, like Alinea in Lincoln Park which offers meals to go. 

Ice skate at Maggie Daley Park

Skate your way into the new year! Maggie Daley Park’s Skating Ribbon will be open on New Year’s Eve at varying times from 11:00 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. The Skating Ribbon is not only at an iconic location, with the city’s sweeping skyline in the background, but also features a winding pathway of ice instead of a traditional round rink. This year, you’ll need to make a reservation to keep social distancing guidelines. 

Pick up a make-at-home cocktail kit

Toast the new year with a homemade cocktail from a local Chicago bar. Choose from Chicago bars like Il Porcellino, Lawry’s, and Gemini. Il Porcellino is currently offering two cocktail kits to go. The first cocktail is a Negroni kit that includes gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, and the second is a spritz kit with prosecco, Aperol, and soda. Lawry’s cocktail mixing kit is named “Meat Me at Home” and features vodka, two martini glasses, a martini shaker, and a jar of horseradish and prime rib stuffed olives. Gemini has curbside pick-up cocktail kits including a Cadillac Margarita kit, a Gentleman’s Martini kit, and a “My Vacation Was Cancelled” kit.

Explore The Magnificent Mile

If you like to go shopping, then you’ll love the stores along Michigan Avenue, otherwise known as The Magnificent Mile. The Magnificent Mile boasts more than 460 retailers including popular brands, department stores, and designer labels. While you’re shopping, don’t forget to look for some of Chicago’s historic landmarks; there are over 50 located along The Magnificent Mile. One famous landmark located on Michigan Avenue is the historic Chicago Water Tower. It gained special significance as one of the few buildings to survive the destructive path of the Great Chicago Fire in 1871. As you walk along The Magnificent Mile, you’ll also be able to see the trees lining the road illuminated with lights for the holidays.

Planning your visit

Whether you choose to visit Chicago for New Year’s Eve or in the future, you’ll have a unique and thrilling experience, not to mention the stunning landscapes that you’ll be able to see. After you’ve selected your travel dates, you’ll need to decide where you’ll stay on your trip. Consider booking a hotel located in the heart of the city, close to nearly everything. Next up, pack your bags with essentials like warm clothes and a face covering to keep you safe and healthy. Now you’re ready for your upcoming trip to Chicago filled with breathtaking adventures and spectacular sights. 

Need a place to stay when visiting Chicago? Book your reservation here.