Illustrations of zoo animals in a Chicago snowfall.
Katherine Nagasawa / WBEZ
Illustrations of zoo animals in a Chicago snowfall.
Katherine Nagasawa / WBEZ

It’s almost that time of year again when rakes are replaced with shovels, boots come out of storage, and cozy sweaters alone just don’t cut it.

Many Chicagoans’ habits have already changed with the days getting shorter. But despite one sighting of snow at O’Hare already, Chicago is still experiencing 70-degree days. But, of course, it won’t last forever. And when it comes to winter in the Windy City, preparation is everything. So why wait for the first blast of freezing cold temperatures to compile your winter guide?

Reporter Monica Eng consulted Chicago winter whizzes – including a professional photographer, a former mail carrier, and the manager of a store that outfits locals for cold-weather activities – to get their advice for braving the cold. Hot tip: A baked potato – even though it requires a bit of pre-planning – can be a life-changer.

And while we’re at it, we revisit a question from Curious City listener Stephanie Stump. Stephanie asked us where the Lincoln Park Zoo animals go during the winter months – and she wondered if maybe they’re shipped to Florida. A few years ago, producer Katherine Nagasawa paid a visit to the zoo in search of answers.

Monica Eng is an Axios Chicago reporter. Katherine Nagasawa is a Full Spectrum Features digital and impact producer.

Illustrations of zoo animals in a Chicago snowfall.
Katherine Nagasawa / WBEZ
Illustrations of zoo animals in a Chicago snowfall.
Katherine Nagasawa / WBEZ

It’s almost that time of year again when rakes are replaced with shovels, boots come out of storage, and cozy sweaters alone just don’t cut it.

Many Chicagoans’ habits have already changed with the days getting shorter. But despite one sighting of snow at O’Hare already, Chicago is still experiencing 70-degree days. But, of course, it won’t last forever. And when it comes to winter in the Windy City, preparation is everything. So why wait for the first blast of freezing cold temperatures to compile your winter guide?

Reporter Monica Eng consulted Chicago winter whizzes – including a professional photographer, a former mail carrier, and the manager of a store that outfits locals for cold-weather activities – to get their advice for braving the cold. Hot tip: A baked potato – even though it requires a bit of pre-planning – can be a life-changer.

And while we’re at it, we revisit a question from Curious City listener Stephanie Stump. Stephanie asked us where the Lincoln Park Zoo animals go during the winter months – and she wondered if maybe they’re shipped to Florida. A few years ago, producer Katherine Nagasawa paid a visit to the zoo in search of answers.

Monica Eng is an Axios Chicago reporter. Katherine Nagasawa is a Full Spectrum Features digital and impact producer.