Holiday Fun in the Chicago Area for Seniors

Holiday Fun in the Chicago Area for Seniors

The holiday season is easily one of the best times to be in Chicago. The city and its surrounding areas come to life with an array of sparkling lights, gorgeous decorations, and holiday activities. Starting in November, it seems there is a new adventure to explore every other day no matter your age.

If you are looking for something tailored to older adults, try these events for holiday fun in the Chicago area for seniors. These events are perfect to enjoy whether you are looking for something to entertain visiting family, or if you are a Chicago native looking for an afternoon of fun.

Holiday fun in downtown Chicago

Come mid-November, the city of Chicago transports into a winter wonderland. Between themed restaurants, markets, parades, and holiday events, you can find a seasonal activity to enjoy no matter your mood!

You’ve already heard about the Christkindlmarket and Christmas Around the World, so try these seasonal celebrations instead.

View the Walnut Room’s magnificent Christmas tree

Tucked away on the seventh floor of the Macy’s shopping center is a gorgeous dining hall known as the Walnut Room. During the Christmas season, ribbons, lights, garland, and a 45-foot tall Christmas tree decorate the room. For a quiet dinner with friends and family, reserve a table and bask in the seasonal splendor throughout your meal.

Curling by the lake

For seniors looking to stay active during the winter, head to Harry Caray’s Tavern on Navy Pier and try curling. In some ways similar to shuffleboard and other ways similar to bowling, curling is a sport those of all ages can enjoy. At only $5 a person, you and the whole family can play a game with the city as your backdrop.

IO Godfrey Igloos

Who says you can’t admire the city skyline in the winter? Most rooftop bars close once the chill of fall sets in, but the Godfrey Hotel keeps theirs open throughout the winter. This is thanks to their heated igloos. Decorated with multicolor lights, you can chase away the chill with a drink and time spent with friends.

The holiday train

If you plan on taking public transportation this holiday season, consider trying to get on the CTA Holiday train. Each train car is decorated with thousands of lights and festive décor, and Santa pulls the train at the front. The train still follows its standard line, so you can get on and off where you need to.

In the suburbs

While the city is full of much to do, there is plenty of holiday fun in the Chicago area for seniors out in the suburbs!

Morton Arboretum Illumination

The Morton Arboretum is a 50-acre natural museum only about 20 miles from the heart of the city. From mid-November to early January, the Arboretum is illuminated by dazzling displays of lights and color. Getting outside in the winter can feel like a challenge to many seniors, but with so much to see and do, the mile-long walk won’t feel like exercise. What’s more, the path is fully ADA-accessible. Seniors with limited mobility won’t have to worry about whether or not they’ll be able to enjoy the festivities.

Sparkle Light Festival

Many think of Rosemont as a landing point for the O’Hare Airport, but it is so much more than that. Just past the landing strips is a wide array of gorgeous, light-up winter scenery. Seniors can spend an evening wandering the illuminated villages with festive food and drink while grandchildren hop on the train or ice slide. The Sparkle Light Festival offers a wide array of festive activities for all to enjoy.

Happy Holiday Railway

For a slightly different holiday festivity, hop on the Happy Holiday Railway. Guests are invited to the Illinois Railway Museum to ride through Illinois’s (hopefully!) wintery countryside with treats, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa. It is a sweet trip to enjoy with your family. However, it is just as wonderful if you want to view a winter landscape without the cold!

Home care for seniors in need

Aging in place may be the ideal outcome for many seniors, but as they age, it may not be as possible as it once was. Existing problems are only exacerbated by the challenges presented by winter—with ice, snow, and cold getting in the way of completing activities of daily living.

If you need help to continue to live at home, consider giving Home Care Powered by AUAF a call at (773) 274-9262. Our staff is happy to assist you with the process of receiving care at home.