Winter tends to make me sluggish and lazy.  I just want to lie around, eat, watch TV, and never leave the house.

Whenever I give in to those feelings however, I’m miserable and bored.  After a particularly difficult winter several years back, I resolved that in the future,  I’d just embrace the season and stay as active in the cold weather as I am the rest of the year.  For the past few winters I’ve actually been doing outside activities in the cold!  Changing my attitude has made a world of difference.  Not only does winter not seem as long, I actually enjoy it.  I still wouldn’t say that I love it but its no longer dreadful.

Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon

Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon presents a great opportunity to get out and have some fun in the cold. In the past I’d usually skate at Millennium Park.  Comparing the two, I prefer Maggie Daley’s Ice Skating Ribbon hands down.  It’s longer, winding, and offers splendid views of the city’s skyscrapers.

Make sure that you bundle up.  My friends and I seem to always end up going on the coldest days so we’ve learned the art of layering.

Bucks Cafe

Even with the low temperatures, once you get moving, you really don’t feel the cold as much.  It’s so much fun and its nice being outside breathing in the crisp air.

In case you’re in need of a warm-up, Buck’s Cafe, located in the park sells hot chocolate.

You can also pop into the Fieldhouse to reheat.  There are restrooms and lockers located inside.

If you’re looking for somewhere to play outside this winter, give Maggie Daley Park’s Ice Skating Ribbon a try.  Don’t forget to reward yourself afterwards with a yummy Chicago deep-dish pizza!  I live for that!

Some things to keep in mind before planning a day at Maggie Daley’s Ice Skating Ribbon:

Flo’s Favorites

Zamboni Hours:
Monday-Thursday, 2:30 and 5:50 p.m.
Friday:    2:30, 5:00, and 7:30 p.m.
Saturday 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday 12:00, 3:00, and 5:30 p.m.
*Zamboni takes 45-60 minutes so plan ahead

Maggie Daley Skating Ribbon Hours:
•    Monday – Thursday: noon – 8:00 pm
•    Friday: noon – 10:00 pm
•    Saturday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
•    Sunday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm