The city can sure feel like a ghost town on Christmas Day. Whether you’re celebrating the holiday or not, most families might not want to stay at home all day.
If your kids have already played with all of their toys or your family doesn’t celebrate Christmas and is looking for an escape, check out all these kid-friendly spots open in Chicago and suburbs on Dec. 25.
Aurora Festival of Lights
Since most local outdoor holiday light attractions are not open on Christmas, it is worth the trip to Aurora to see the downtown dazzling lights. The Aurora Festival of Lights will be open from 5-9 p.m. on Dec. 25. Admission is free, but it’s encouraged to make a free reservation online to secure your spot.
Chicago Botanic Garden
A walk outdoors will keep your family’s feet moving. Lightscape will be closed on Dec. 25, but exploring the gardens still sounds like a fun winter activity for families.
Chi-Town Drive-In Movies
Your family has two options to enjoy holiday classics on Christmas Day: The Muppet Christmas Carol at 4:45 p.m. or Elf at 6:45 p.m. (Parents and teens can enjoy a 9 p.m. showing of Die Hard.) Book your ticket early!
Jack Frost Winter Walk
Walk through the winter and holiday scenes created at the Goose Island pop-up experience. Open after 2 p.m., advanced timed tickets are required, and children under 4 are free.
Let It Shine Light Show
You can catch this drive-through holiday lights show on Christmas Day. Get your tickets online for any of their three locations in Aurora, Schaumburg and Northbrook.
Lincoln Park Zoo
ZooLights is closed on Christmas Day, but you can stroll around the zoo from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
McCormick Ice Rink
You can skate around the Millennium Park rink on Christmas Day from 9:30 am.-9 p.m. Skate rentals cost $15 on holidays, and you must purchase your tickets online before visiting.
Skydeck Chicago
Who says you can’t still play tourist on Christmas? The popular attraction at Willis Tower will be open from 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
The Morton Arboretum
While Illumination is closed on Christmas Day, you can still purchase tickets to explore the grounds during the day.
Parkway Bank Park – Skating in the Park
After enjoy a Christmas meal with your family, head to the Rosemont skating rink from 4-9 p.m.
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