Is Chicago Open on Christmas? A Festive Guide to Survival
So, you're in Chicago on Christmas Day. Kudos on your impeccable planning skills (or lack thereof, depending on your perspective). Don't worry, you're not alone. There are plenty of other souls out there, wandering the Windy City in search of something, anything, that's open. Let's dive into the wonderful world of Christmas in Chicago.
What's Open, What's Not: A Tale of Two Cities
Let's get the bad news out of the way first. Most of the normal stuff will be closed. Your favorite stores, malls, and even your local corner store will be snuggled up in bed, dreaming of sugarplums (or at least, we hope they are).
But fear not, intrepid explorer! There's still hope.
Dining Out on Christmas: A Feast or Famine?
Believe it or not, some restaurants actually have the audacity to be open on Christmas. These places are either filled with brave souls like you, or people who have absolutely no family or friends. Either way, it's a gamble.
- Fancy Pants Establishments: If you're feeling flush and want to impress someone, certain high-end restaurants might be open. Just be prepared to pay through the nose for a tiny portion of food.
- Casual Cruisers: Some more casual places, like diners or pizza joints, might be open too. These are your best bet for a decent meal without breaking the bank.
- Convenience Stores: If all else fails, there's always the trusty convenience store. You might not find a gourmet meal, but you can definitely grab some snacks and drinks to survive.
Things to Do on Christmas in Chicago: Beyond Shopping
Okay, so you can't shop, and most places are closed. What's a person to do? Well, there are actually a few options:
- Embrace the Outdoors: If you're feeling adventurous, bundle up and explore Chicago's winter wonderland. Take a walk along the lakefront, visit one of the city's beautiful parks, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet.
- Catch a Movie: Some movie theaters might be open, especially the larger chains. It's a classic Christmas activity, after all.
- Explore Museums: Many museums in Chicago are open on Christmas Day. It's a great way to spend a few hours learning something new and staying warm.
- Volunteer: Feeling generous? There are often volunteer opportunities available on Christmas Day. Helping others is a great way to spread some holiday cheer.
How to Survive Christmas in Chicago
- How to find restaurants open on Christmas: Use online resources like Yelp or Google to search for restaurants open on Christmas Day.
- How to stay entertained on Christmas: Check out the websites of museums, theaters, and other attractions to see what's open.
- How to stay warm: Layer up! Invest in a good winter coat, hat, scarf, and gloves.
- How to find holiday events: Look for local events and activities happening around the city.
- How to avoid cabin fever: Get out and explore! Even if it's just for a short walk, it can help to clear your head.
So there you have it, a survival guide for Christmas in Chicago. Remember, every cloud has a silver lining, and even in the midst of a holiday shutdown, there are still plenty of things to see and do. Happy holidays!