For the best Christmas light displays in Chicago, follow this road map! Whether you live out in the suburbs or deep in the Loop, there is something on this list for you. If you want to stay in the city, skip the first two locations, but if you’re ready for a full day (or maybe even a weekend) of holiday fun, these are your must-stop spots. Read on for all the festive details about the best-ever ways to celebrate winter in Illinois:

Holiday magic and traditional delights are necessities during Christmastime, and these seven attractions are not to be missed. Drive time is about two hours for this festive road trip, so bundle up and buckle in.
Google Maps
1. Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo, 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
Facebook/Brookfield Zoo
Featuring one million lights, this epic holiday display is the Christmas event of the year. Children get to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus while still viewing some of their favorite animals, like dolphins and bears. There is even ice sculpting, a stargazing tour, and other fun activities. This is one Christmas event in Illinois you can't miss.
2. ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
Facebook/Lincoln Park Zoo
The spectacular and free ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the most popular holiday lights displays in Chicago. It is a must-see for all, featuring 3D displays and more than 100 themed scenes. A stunning array of activities occur throughout here the season.
Next, you'll take a drive down Michigan Avenue (aka the Magnificent Mile), which is Chicago's premier shopping district. At night, you'll see a plethora of Christmas lights this time of year.
Flickr/Daniel X. O'Neil
3. Macy's Christmas Window Displays
Flickr/Marit & Toomas Hinnosaar
Just as in New York City, Macy's in Chicago decorates its storefronts, giving shoppers festive wonderlands to admire. Each year is different, and Macy's isn't the only store to join in the fun. The entire Mag Mile is aglow with Christmas delights! For the best Christmas lights near Chicago, look no further than Macy's.
4. Light Up The Lake at Navy Pier
Facebook/Navy Pier
This epic indoor playland in Chicago is the biggest and best in the city. It features an ice skating rink, Ferris wheel, carousel, and inflatable slides. It is also decked out in immaculate decorations like oversized snowflakes and more than 400 evergreens.
5. Chicago Christmas Tree
Flickr/Dan Perry
Situated in Millennium Park, the Mag Mile will take you past Chicago's best park and Christmas tree. A lighting ceremony takes place in mid-November, drawing locals from far and wide. Many do not consider it truly the holiday season until they've seen this. The official City of Chicago website has more information about this year's festivities.
6. Christmas Around the World at the Museum of Science and Industry
Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, 5700 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60637, USA
Facebook/Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
This indoor holiday lights display features over 50 12-foot evergreens all decorated by volunteers. On weekends, the museum also puts on live holiday performances you don't want to miss. Looking for one of the best holiday traditions in Chicago? This is the be-all, end-all.

While you’re exploring the city, you’ll need someplace to eat. Try one of these eight lesser-known Chicago restaurants.

Which of the best Christmas lights displays in Chicago do you love most? Share your favorites with us!

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Best Christmas Lights Near Chicago

Tori Jane | October 13, 2022

What are some of the best Christmas towns near Chicago?  

There are plenty of delightful little Christmas towns in Illinois to go around. No matter which part of the state you’re from, there’s probably one or two nearby (at least). About an hour away is the town of Elburn, which is famous for one incredible house that goes all-out every year: it’s the amazing Larsen’s Light Show, and it’s become a holiday tradition for Chicago residents to go delight in. Rochelle is also within two hours drive from Chicago, and it’s one of our favorite small towns in Illinois all year – but ESPECIALLY at Christmas, when everything’s just a little more magical than usual.  

What is Christmas in Chicago like?  

Christmas in Chicago is such a delightful, magical time. You can check out all sorts of fabulous Christmas light displays in Chicago and head to a fun-filled, family-friendly holiday festival. Everyone seems a little nicer – a little happier – these days, and Chicago seems to be the epicenter of happy holidays in Illinois. Every corner and nook is decorated, and when there’s a layer of fresh snow on it all, it’s just that much more awe-inspiring. Well... unless we get too much snow like we’ve done a few times during historic winter storms in Illinois.  

Where can I see the best Christmas lights near Chicago? 

Each and every year, Chicago loves going all-in for the holidays. There are lots of wonderful Christmas lights near Chicago to wonder at and admire, many of which are annual traditions. Some of our favorites include ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo, which features more than two million sparkling lights and all the enchantment you could ever hope for. The City of Chicago Christmas Tree is nothing short of pure magic, and we also can’t get enough of the annual Magnificent Mile Lights Festival downtown. Chicago Botanic Garden hosts Lightscape every year, and you can’t miss the Menorah lighting in Daley Plaza!  

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