Last year, I spend a few weeks in the US. It was my firs time in North America continent and it was unforgettable experience. I have visited many, many cities, from New York, to Chicago, San Francisco, Las Vegas or San Diego (and many, many more). This article will cover my stay in Chicago, approx the same time last year...

Chicago offers a virtual wonderland of one of a kind winter actives which is just one of the many reasons travelers visit during the winter and early spring months. Visiting this time of the year also opens all kinds of doors when it comes to travel on a budget including a selection of cheap hotels in Chicago to choose from.

If you're planning on visiting Chicago between January and April, how about spending some time skating high in the sky? Can you even imagine what it would be like? Just imagine getting the chance to enjoy a fairy tale skating experience high up in the sky with Chicago's sparkling city lights behind you. Amazing right? Well you can skate at the world's highest skating rink which is 1000 feet in the sky at Chicago's John Hancock Observatory. The ice skating rink itself is 900 square feet made with XTRAICE, an innovative synthetic substance which delivers the perfect skating experience that, when paired with the remarkable, panoramic views of the city delivers the perfect winter getaway experience. The skating rink is open daily from January 1st to April 8th, 2012 between 9am and 11pm. I found the video below pretty cool:

You can skate in 25 minute sessions for only $5, bringing your own skates or you can rent them there for just $1; can't beat that! If you don't know how to skate you'll have the opportunity to take lessons from the Chicago Blackhawks Youth Hockey professional coaches. They offer three, 30 minute lessons on Mondays for free with admission. It will be worth the effort because it gives you the chance to try out your new skating skills high in Chicago's sky. If you plan ahead you can find a variety of cheap hotel rooms conveniently located near this fun attraction as well as many others.

After your magical skating experience you'll want to stop by the John Hancock Observatory's award winning Lavaza Espression café for a delicious cup of hot cocoa. For something stronger try their SKYY® High Cocktail or one of their beer or wine choices You'll also be able to enjoy the scrumptious cuisine created by Ferran Adrià, a 3 star Michelin chef, while wrapping yourself in their exceptional ambience featuring 360% panoramic views of the world famous Chicago skyline and beyond.

This world famous city has so many unique venues to experience and the discount hotels that will make it an affordable option for any winter vacation. You'll be charmed by the snow covered landscapes, jazz clubs, a variety of winter sports and most of all, getting the chance to skate high in the sky.