Chicago
United States
Discover the best time to visit
Weather in Chicago
Monthly temperature ranges and rainfall patterns to help you pack right
When to Save Money
Monthly crowd levels and price indices for Chicago
Pro Tip
Months marked with a star offer the best balance of low crowds and affordable prices. In Chicago, consider visiting in January, February, November.
The Sweet Spot
Perfect balance of comfortable weather, manageable crowds, and great value in Chicago
September
#1 recommended
February
#2 recommended
August
#3 recommended
October
#4 recommended
Best months to visit Chicago:
September, February, August
What to Expect Each Month
Detailed month-by-month guide to help you plan the perfect trip to Chicago
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for Chicago during January.
Highlights
- Research local attractions
- Check for local events
- Book accommodations in advance
Consider
- Weather can vary
- Popular periods may be crowded
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Essential documents
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for Chicago during February.
Highlights
- Research local attractions
- Check for local events
- Book accommodations in advance
Consider
- Weather can vary
- Popular periods may be crowded
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Essential documents
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for Chicago during March.
Highlights
- Research local attractions
- Check for local events
- Book accommodations in advance
Consider
- Weather can vary
- Popular periods may be crowded
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Essential documents
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for Chicago during April.
Highlights
- Research local attractions
- Check for local events
- Book accommodations in advance
Consider
- Weather can vary
- Popular periods may be crowded
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Essential documents
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for Chicago during May.
Highlights
- Research local attractions
- Check for local events
- Book accommodations in advance
Consider
- Weather can vary
- Popular periods may be crowded
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Essential documents
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for Chicago during June.
Highlights
- Research local attractions
- Check for local events
- Book accommodations in advance
Consider
- Weather can vary
- Popular periods may be crowded
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Essential documents
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for Chicago during July.
Highlights
- Research local attractions
- Check for local events
- Book accommodations in advance
Consider
- Weather can vary
- Popular periods may be crowded
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Essential documents
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for Chicago during August.
Highlights
- Research local attractions
- Check for local events
- Book accommodations in advance
Consider
- Weather can vary
- Popular periods may be crowded
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Essential documents
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for Chicago during September.
Highlights
- Research local attractions
- Check for local events
- Book accommodations in advance
Consider
- Weather can vary
- Popular periods may be crowded
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Essential documents
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for Chicago during October.
Highlights
- Research local attractions
- Check for local events
- Book accommodations in advance
Consider
- Weather can vary
- Popular periods may be crowded
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Essential documents
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for Chicago during November.
Highlights
- Research local attractions
- Check for local events
- Book accommodations in advance
Consider
- Weather can vary
- Popular periods may be crowded
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Essential documents
Weather
Check local weather forecasts for Chicago during December.
Highlights
- Research local attractions
- Check for local events
- Book accommodations in advance
Consider
- Weather can vary
- Popular periods may be crowded
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Essential documents
What's Happening in Chicago
Major events, festivals, and celebrations throughout the year
January
New Year Celebrations
Ring in the new year with local celebrations and events.
holidayApril
Spring Festivals
Various springtime cultural events and celebrations.
festivalJuly
Summer Events
Peak season events including outdoor concerts and festivals.
musicOctober
Autumn Celebrations
Fall harvest festivals and cultural events.
culturalDecember
Holiday Season
End of year celebrations, markets, and festivities.
holidayRelated Tools
More tools to help plan your perfect trip to Chicago
Golden Hour Times
Perfect photography lighting
Discover the exact sunrise, sunset, golden hour, and blue hour times for Chicago. Plan your photography sessions with precision timing data.
Travel Budget
Plan your expenses
Calculate your daily budget for Chicago including accommodation, food, transport, and activities. Get realistic cost estimates for your trip.
Capture the Season in Chicago
Thoughtful prompts to help you journal about how the season shaped your experience
How did the "Windy City" reputation match your experience?
Famous wind
Describe surviving (or enjoying) a Chicago winter.
Harsh winters
What was summer in Chicago like—festivals, beaches, energy?
Summer festival season
How did fall colors along the lakefront impress you?
Autumn foliage
Describe spring in Chicago after a long winter—how did the city celebrate?
Spring awakening
What surprised you about Lake Michigan's influence on weather?
Lake effect
Perfect Photo Moments in Chicago
Know exactly when to capture the best shots based on season and timing
The Bean (Cloud Gate) reflections
Early morning for empty shots
Chicago River dyed green
Morning dyeing ceremony
Summer sunset from North Avenue Beach
Skyline silhouette
Fall colors in Millennium Park
Lurie Garden and Crown Fountain
Winter ice and snow on lakefront
Frozen lake shelves and city backdrop
Architecture boat tour
Golden hour tours available
Lollapalooza crowds in Grant Park
Skyline and festival energy
Spring blooms at Lincoln Park
Conservatory and gardens
Blue hour from 360 Chicago
Hancock Building observation deck
Foggy morning over the river
Bridges disappearing into mist
Christmas lights on Mag Mile
Magnificent Mile festivities
Summer fireworks at Navy Pier
Wednesday and Saturday nights
Pro tip: Save this list to your TripMemo journal for quick reference while exploring
Ready to Start Planning?
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