Ice skating in Millennium Park is a cherished Chicago tradition. Each winter, the downtown park is home to two unique public ice rinks. You can glide along on the free skate rink nestled in the shadow of a Chicago icon — “The Bean” statue — and the lights of Michigan Avenue. Then take a spin along a ribbon of ice that winds past snow-capped pines and the glimmering Chicago skyline.

Check out the seasonal ice skating rinks on Chicago’s Millennium Park campus.

McCormick Tribune ice rink

Ice skating near The Bean

Come experience a Chicago winter tradition, now in its 20th season. The McCormick Tribune skating rink in Millennium Park is a bucket list spot to take a spin on the ice. You’ll be surrounded with breathtaking wintery views of Chicago, including the downtown skyline, the magical lights on the city’s towering Christmas tree, and all the holiday lights reflected on the shining surface of Cloud Gate aka “The Bean.”

The rink is open daily from Nov. 19, 2021 through March 6, 2022, weather permitting. Admission is free, but online reservations are required. Skate rentals are available.

Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon

Maggie Daley Park ice skating

Maggie Daley Park, neighboring Millennium Park, is home to a picturesque Skating Ribbon that meanders through snow-dusted pine trees, whimsical play spaces, and around soaring climbing walls. Its path is twice the length of a lap around a traditional skating rink, which means twice the fun for skaters.

The Skating Ribbon opens for the winter season on Nov. 19, 2021 and will remain open through March 13, 2022 (weather permitting). You’ll need to make a reservation in advance this year, but that means less lines and less waiting. Reservations open on Nov. 8 and limited spots will be available so make sure to book your time slot early.

Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon
Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon

Explore more to do in Millennium Park this winter.