Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier

If you are looking for a fun holiday themed activity this year, look no further than the Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier. Held in the large Festival Hall toward the end of the pier, Winter Wonderfest is a great way to get the whole family together and awaken the child that is somewhere in all of us. I am a huge fan of any and all Christmas activities, so when my boyfriend mentioned finding a deal for tickets to Winter Wonderfest, I couldn't help but to count down the days until we could act like kids again.

The Vibe

Christmas spirit was at an all time high inside the Winter Wonderfest. As soon as we arrived, we were instantly put in the mood upon seeing the Giant Christmas Tree that greeted us as we entered. Decorated with sparkling ornaments, it towered almost all the way to the ceiling and was a truly impressive and beautiful sight. We wandered around the hall amidst the families, couples, and groups of friends of all ages all there to have a great time. We could screams of delight from people on the rides as well as lots of laughter from kids running around. There were lights everywhere, more christmas trees than I could count, and so many colorful holiday decorations that made it all seem so magical. We also were hit by the smells of food and treats found throughout the fest: roasted almonds, funnel cakes, candy, popcorn, as well as root beer floats and Dunkin Donuts coffee.

Become a kid again

The first ride we got on was the Tilt-A-Whirl, a classic fair ride involving a lot of spinning around at fast speeds while seated in a large pod. It was great fun to feel like a kid again and I was surprised at times how fast it went. Next we decided to try the ‘Wintertube,' a ride in which participants pull an inner tube up a ramp and speed down a slide from the top. After that, I needed some sustenance, so we stopped for a fried dough toped with loads of butter, cinnamon and powered sugar. Yummmmmm. I washed it down with a ‘make you own smoothie' in an effort to make at least one healthy choice.

Finally, we took to the ice. Rentals are included with the activity ticket, and the rink stays open everyday until 30 minutes before closing. Lockers are available for $6 to store purses, which are not allowed on the ice. I have skated many times in my youth and would say I am pretty decent, but this was only the second time for my boyfriend. He did very well I will say and not fall once (an improvement from the last time he tried skating). It was great to see so many people on the ice, from beginners to experts.

After a few more rides (Cliff Hanger – felt like we were flying) and watching people climb the Snow Summit Climbing Wall, we got onto the Ferris Wheel to finish up our night. While not as large as the Ferris Wheel outside, it still gave great views of Winter Wonderfest from the top.

Activities

Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier features many attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. On Deal Days (Jan 5-9) tickets are just $19 and include admission as well as access to more than 25 rides and activities including:

Chicago Blackhawks Ice Skating Rink
Winter Rules Mini Golf
Wonder Whirl
Cliff Hanger
Zero Gravity
Ferris Wheel
Wintertube
Snow Summit Climbing Wall (gym shoes required)

The following activities are perfect for the wee ones:

Reindeer Express Train
Starry Slide
Snowman Bouncer
Gumball Bouncer
Hot Cocoa Cups
Kringle Carousel
Arctic Wonder Obstacle Course
Candy Cane Lighthouse
Toboggan Tunnel

I had such an amazing time at Winer Wonderfest. I recommend visiting on a weekday like I did so that you do not have to battle crowds which surely emerge on the weekends. It is the perfect date night idea but also ideal for families with all of the activities available for kids. You will watch their eyes light up again and again as they discover more and more in this indoor playground.

The Deal

I Spent: ~~$19~~ $11

I Got: One ticket to Winter Wonderfest 2014 at Navy Pier

Want to visit the biggest winter themed playground? Click HERE for tickets

Note: The next week for 30% off is January 5-9