It’s that time when Illinoisans start to get excited for the most enchanting event of the year. This winter walk transports you to a land of festive lights, holiday cheer, and magical surprises. Believe us, merriment is all around. Despite the cold, it is always fun to start new holiday traditions in Illinois. All ages will be delighted by the sight of these Illinois holiday lights. Keep scrolling to learn more about the best Christmas lights in Illinois.

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The Coulterville Holiday Light Display takes place at 102 W Grant Street in Coulterville, and you can get more information on the Coulterville Holiday Light Display Facebook page.

For more magical places to walk around, check out 11 Main Streets that transform into holiday worlds at Christmastime. Or, sign up for a Christmas Eve dinner cruise on Lake Michigan.

Where are the best Christmas lights near you? Have you ever been on this winter walk? What are your go-to holiday events to see the best Christmas lights in Illinois? We love to hear about your favorite things to do in winter in Illinois!

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Best Winter Hikes And Holiday Lights

What are the best walk-thru light displays in Illinois?

Some of the best walk-thru holiday light displays in Illinois include:

 

For another Christmas light hike in Illinois, venture to the Lincoln Park Zoo for ZooLights. This twinkly tradition lets you see the zoo like never before. Stroll through thousands of glistening displays and take photos with Santa. This event also features live ice-sculpting on select nights. Don’t miss out! This spectacle will make you feel like a kid again. For another merry adventure, head to Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum. Here, you can walk through one mile of breathtaking lights.

Can I go hiking in the winter in Illinois?

There are so many great places to go hiking in Illinois during the winter. The Observation Trail at Garden of the Gods is one of the most spectacular. When snow covers the cliffs, the views are astounding. This 5.5-mile hike is a local favorite, and it’s easy to see why. Be sure to wear good shoes on this hike. In the winter, these paths can get slippery. For another gorgeous winter hike, head to Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien. When the waterfalls are frozen, the area takes on a whole new beauty. To learn more about Illinois’s best winter hikes, read our feature article.

What are the best parks to visit in the winter in Illinois?

Some of the best parks to visit in the winter in Illinois include:

 

Matthiessen State Park is a beautiful place to visit during winter in Illinois. The icy streams and frozen canyons look like something from a dream. For another whimsical adventure, head to Starved Rock State Park. Most people probably wouldn’t think about visiting this area during winter, but it’s absolutely worth a trip. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a bald eagle soaring overhead. Red Hills State Park, located in Sumner, is another can’t-miss park you should visit during winter. Illinois is chock full of lovely places, no matter what the season is.

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