Best Time To Visit Chicago > Weather, Temperature & Season

What is the best time to visit Chicago?

The most popular time, weather-wise, to visit Chicago spans through April and June when the spring season makes its entry after a chilling winter season. Another popular time to visit Chicago is between September and November when the fall season is at its peak, and the temperature is perfect for outdoor activities. During these times of the year, you will also find a plethora of cultural events and local festivals in the city. In general, summertime (from June to August) is more popular among tourists to visit Chicago than winters (November to March). However, the boarding and lodging rates can be very steep in the summertime, and tourists may find great discounts on hotels during the winter season.

Weather in Chicago

Upcoming Chicago Weather

Monthly Weather in Chicago

Month	High/Low (°C)	Rain
January	2°/ -4°	3 days
February	1°/ -6°	5 days
March	8°/ 0°	7 days
April	11°/ 2°	7 days
May	17°/ 8°	18 days
June	22°/ 14°	13 days
July	28°/ 20°	14 days
August	26°/ 19°	12 days
September	24°/ 17°	13 days
October	15°/ 8°	9 days
November	5°/ -1°	4 days
December	5°/ -2°	3 days

Top Hotels In Chicago

More about Best Time to Travel to Chicago

Chicago in August

Weather
The wind settles down to a slow and easy pace in August, making it a great time for outdoor activities. Water activities are the most preferred activity for tourists in this month because the water temperature is just perfect.

To make the most of excellent weather conditions, several events are organised in the city for tourists and locals, some of which are:
• The Air and Water show where spectators witness the grandeur of the aerobatic teams of the U.S. Air Force, Army, and Navy.
• The Northalsted Market Days event is a street festival that focuses on the LGBT community but is open for all. This festival includes dance performances, food stalls, and craft vendors.
• The music festival – Lollapalooza that is characterised by celebrity visits, plenty of food options and a weekend full of thrill.
• The Chicago Jazz Festival is organised on the Labor Day weekend and sees live performances from different Jazz genres.

Chicago in September

Weather
The month of September is a transition month from rainy, hot days to pleasant, cosy evenings. September rarely sees wet showers, making it an ideal month for outdoor activities.

Some of these events and activities that the tourists can visit are:
• The food and drink festival in the Fulton Market Harvest Fest, featuring chefs from the most popular restaurants in the region surrounding Fulton Market area.
• The food festival called Chicago Gourmet that involves cooking demonstrations, wine tasting sessions, culinary specialities, and excellent dining options. This event is open for people above the age of 21 years.
• The Chicago Architecture Biennial Exhibition that showcases innovations in designing and architecture.

Chicago in October

Weather
The fabulous hues of fall characterise the month of October in Chicago. However, the days get shorter and evenings get colder, but not uncomfortable. Some days might see slight snowfall.

Nevertheless, some events are hugely popular among tourists, including:
• The Chicago International Film Festival that was first held in 1964, and considers participation from renowned directors.
• The Bank of America Chicago Marathon that counts among the top marathons in the world.
• The Rocktober Beerfest is organised in a classic German Oktoberfest theme, replete with pretzels and all things German.
• Halloween parades that highlight some creative and innovative costumes along with fantastic makeup.

Chicago in November

Weather
November is the first official month of the winter season in Chicago. While the days are sunny and bright, the evenings get chilly and overcast. Snowfall becomes more common in this month but is not too much. Fantastic hotel deals for tourists typically characterise this month.

Some events that are not to be missed this month are:
• The Magnificent Miles Lights Festival for the whole family, marked by massive discounts for shopping.
• The McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade featuring performances, balloons and marching bands is worth a watch.
• Visiting the open-air holiday village market – Christkindlmarket and shop for traditional German gifts and souvenirs.
• The Lincoln Park Zoo is lit up exquisitely and organises select night events like beer festivals and night markets.

Chicago in December

Weather
The month of December is a full-fledged winter month replete with snowfall and slushy ice accumulating on the roads. However, the spirit of Chicago is unaffected because several events are organised in this month, including:
• The Sauced Night Market, replete with craft beer, local delicacies, and food trucks, and a great party ambience.
• The Renegade Craft Fair for curated art and craft from local artists, also including artisanal food items and beverages and live music.

Chicago in July

Weather
July in Chicago sees a combination of hot weather and rainy spells. Thunderstorms are also frequent during this time of the year. However, their fickle weather conditions don’t stop tourists from attending and enjoying some fantastic events, including:
• The world’s largest food festival called Taste of Chicago attracts millions of visitors who want to try out global cuisines and multi-ethnic recipes. The venue also has rides, entertainment, and games for the whole family.
• The music and craft beer event, Square Roots Festival that sees performances by Indie rock bands, folk music and beer from regional breweries.
• The Chicago Human Rhythm Project organises the Rhythm World Festival that includes performances and workshops for classic and modern genres.

Chicago in High season/ Peak Season

The high season to visit Chicago starts in springtime but reaches a peak in summer months from June to August. The average peak temperature during this time of the year ranges between 70-80 °F. This time of the year is characterised by warm weather, clear skies, sunny and clean beaches, school vacations, and plenty of cultural events in the city. These attractions make tourists flock to Chicago during this time, but it also sees an exorbitant increase in boarding and lodging rates.