Live in Chicago but itching to hit the slopes with the kids this year? Are they finally old enough to get started on skis or a snowboard?
Chicago itself may not have ski lifts, but there are a good selection of skiing and snowboarding resorts near Chicago for a short day trip away. Grab the family and and explore some of the Chicago area’s neighboring ski resorts.
You can build some snowmen, throw some snowballs, or even take the little ones tubing or sledding at or near some of these resorts.
If you’re skiing or snowboarding and want your children to start doing so too, you can get a lower priced kid’s day pass and take them up and teach them yourself.
Alternatively, it’s often well worth the money, especially if you only get up the hill one or two times a year, to just sign them up for a fantastic ski school lesson that will take care of and supervise them all day while you hit some big runs, and get them started without taking up your own ski time. You can always make snow angels and drink hot chocolate together afterwards!
Here are some of your options for skiing or snowboarding with the kids near Chicago:
Skiing & snowboarding in Illinois:
Four Lakes Alpine Snowsports, IL
5750 Lakeside Dr, Lisle
(630) 964-2550
Driving time from Chicago: about 40 minutes
These hills are great for beginners, with two bunny slopes, two intermediate inclines accessible by tow ropes, and a terrain park, located out in the western suburbs of the city.
Prices start at $26 for day tickets
Skiing & snowboarding in Michigan:
Bittersweet Ski Resort
Bittersweet Ski Resort
600 River Rd, Otsego, MI
(269) 694-2820
Driving time from Chicago: about 2.5 hours
This intermediate Michigan hill has 20 runs and 7 chairlifts, a ski school and a Wonder Carpet lift on the bunny slopes, making it super easy for first-time skiers to get started.
Season runs as weather permits
Prices start at $54 for day tickets
Skiing & snowboarding in Wisconsin:
Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort
11931 Fox River Rd, Wilmot, WI
(262) 862-2301
Driving time from Chicago: 90 minutes or less
While skiers of all levels will be happy here, one of the most fun features at Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort is the tubing hill with lanes that run side by side so you can race each other.
There are lifts, a base lodge, and a kids’ ski and snowboard area, along with several dining options as well as an equipment servicing area.
Season runs as weather permits
Prices start at $79 for day tickets
Tempted to head for a day on the slopes with your children? Enjoy a day of skiing and snowboarding near Chicago with our list of suggestions!