Winter Wonderland in Chicago: Free Attractions and Safety Tips
Despite the extreme cold, many people ventured out to Chicago’s lakefront on Sunday to take advantage of free days at some of the city’s biggest tourist attractions.
A Fun Day Out for the Family
Young Natalia Zepeda was one of the many visitors at the Shedd Aquarium with her parents. "I was visiting the aquarium with my mom and dad," Natalia said. "[I thought the underwater snakes] were actually kind of cute. I wanted to adopt one."
Unfortunately, that idea was quickly shot down by Natalia’s mother. They were far from the only people at the popular tourist spot, which appeared to have reached capacity.
Staying Warm and Safe
Shelby Abay, who recently moved to Chicago from Ohio, said the weather hasn’t been too bad at all. "It’s not even snowing. Just layer-up and you’ll be fine," she said.
The age-old advice of bundling up is still a great idea, with temperatures dropping about 40 degrees since Friday.
Forecast Update
According to WGN-TV Meteorologist Mike Janssen, Tuesday is expected to be the worst day of the upcoming week, with windchills expected to be near -25.
"It’s going to get colder like the next two days, so I am going to bunker down and not go anywhere. I already told my boss like I’m working from home on Tuesday, so I’ll see you online," Chicago resident Indie Blanco said.
Free Attractions and Events
If you’re looking for other options that won’t break the bank, the Chicago History Museum is free on Monday, hosting a family-friendly Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration.
The Lincoln Park Zoo is of course free year round, and you can warm up in the animal houses where you can meet the likes of lions and penguins, though thankfully not in the same area.
Staying Safe on the Roads
Can you spot black ice? What to do if you start sliding or skidding? Make sure to check out our article on how to stay safe on the roads during extreme cold weather.
Conclusion
Despite the cold temperatures, Chicago has plenty of free attractions and events to enjoy. Just remember to bundle up and stay safe on the roads.
FAQs
Q: What are some free attractions in Chicago?
A: The Shedd Aquarium, the Chicago History Museum, and the Lincoln Park Zoo are just a few of the many free attractions in Chicago.
Q: How can I stay safe on the roads during extreme cold weather?
A: Make sure to check out our article on how to spot black ice and what to do if you start sliding or skidding.
Q: What are the weather forecast expectations for the upcoming week?
A: According to WGN-TV Meteorologist Mike Janssen, Tuesday is expected to be the worst day of the upcoming week, with windchills expected to be near -25.
