Spring in Chicago: What to Expect, Pack & Do for the Best Trip
Thinking of spending some of spring in Chicago? Great choice! The city I proudly call home is a fine place to be as the weather warms up after the chilly (and of course windy) winter season.
This guide to Chicago in the spring shares all my insider know-how to help you plan your trip. Covered here is what to expect weather-wise, where to stay, what to pack, and the best places to go in the city during spring.
Weather During Spring in Chicago
As you start thinking about taking a trip to Chicago in spring, you’ll be wondering what it’s really like at that time of year, as well as which months are classed as spring in the city.
What are the spring months in Chicago?
March, April and May are the spring months in Chicago.
What is Chicago like in the spring?
Spring in Chicago is something of a transitory season: in fact some argue there’s not much of a spring at all. In March, you may still see snow.
By May, though, daily highs have increased quite considerably, and there are two extra hours of sunshine each day (thank God).
Maximum temperatures range from around 45°F (7°C) in March to about 66°F (19°C) during May.
You can expect about six days of rain per month during spring in Chicago, if we want to get technical. But of course, it wouldn’t be a Chicago season without its layer of unpredictability.
Chicago in Spring Bucket List
These are my top 10 must-dos when you’re visiting the Windy City in March, April, or May:
1. Art on the Mart
Art on the Mart is a city art initiative founded in 2018. The annual program kicks off in April each year, when modern digital art projections are displayed on the Merchandise Mart.
It’s actually the largest, permanent digital art platform worldwide.
Grab a seat across from the Mart, somewhere along the Riverwalk, to take in the visuals.
2. Jackson Park cherry blossoms
I only recently found out myself that in Chicago, we have cherry blossoms! Since I already texted my sister to alert her that we need to go, I figured I should share it with you too.
Almost 200 cherry blossom trees decorate the area around Jackson Park’s Columbian Basin every spring.
When to actually see the display at its best is weather-dependent and difficult to precisely predict, but it’s typically sometime between late April and early May.
If you’re able to visit Chicago within that timeframe then definitely go check it out for yourself and hopefully you’ll get lucky!
3. Baseball game
I’ll be honest, I’ve never made it through more than 4 innings of any baseball game. But I always enjoy the buzzing energy of the crowd and, of course, the snacks.
Whether you care about the game or simply want to soak up the ambience, your spring visit to Chicago coincides with the start of baseball season.
Plan ahead of your visit and you might be able to head over to Wrigley Field on the North Side to see the Chicago Cubs in action. You can buy single game tickets for the season via the official website – a bucket list experience for any baseball fan.
Or, make your way to the South Side for a White Sox game instead. I’ve been to both, and they’re both a fun time (even for a non-sports fan like me).
4. St Patrick’s Day celebrations
St Patrick’s Day is huge in Chicago. All sorts of celebrations are held to mark the date every March 17th, and if you visit during this time of year some celebration deserves to be in your Chicago itinerary.
There are parades all over the place, parties, and special cruises, and the river is even dyed green! You can also sample Irish food and drinks across the city.
Even if you’ve never experienced it firsthand (yet), chances are you’ve seen some videos of the Chicago river being dyed a vibrant green color. People crowd up all along both sides of the river to watch for free.
But if you want to go all out, a number of riverside restaurants and hotels sell reservations for a couple hundred bucks. These locales have some of the best views of the river, and make a party out of the event with food, drinks and music.
Personally, I don’t see a need to pay $200 for this particular experience. Instead, you could watch it for free.
Then, go get a hearty brunch. D4 Irish Pub & Cafe is great, but go anywhere you can manage to find a seat.
Then, if you’re so inclined, hop around to the different Irish pubs or bars in surrounding neighborhoods. Or, check out the lively (and likely much younger) bar scene in Wrigleyville.
5. One Of a Kind show
The One of a Kind show and sale is unmissable whether you want to pick up a gift or buy a unique item for yourself. It’s held in late April as well as during early December, when over 350 creators display their wares at The Mart.
If you’re looking for special gifts and Chicago souvenirs, you’re bound to find some gems at the ‘show.’
6. Garfield Park Conservatory spring flower show
If, like us Chicagoans, you’ve been a bit starved for nature during winter months you may want to visit the Garfield Park Conservatory.
Every year, usually between mid-February and mid-May, they put on a spring flower show.
Each show has its own theme, and you can also see a colorful and wide-ranging display of thousands of spring blooms. It’s an excellent way to immerse yourself in beauty for a couple hours.
Additionally, you’ll see beautiful tulip displays across Magnificent Mile this time of year that further brighten up the city.
7. Follow the Lakefront Trail
One of my favorite things to do in Chicago is to walk along the lakefront trail. You can also jog it or bike the path, but even a stroll or power-walk are great ways to enjoy this trail.
I love being surrounded by fellow Chicagoans who want to get active while taking in the sights – the lake stretches out on one side, skyline on another and trees on yet another.
It’s glorious, and I highly recommend getting out on the trail if weather permits during your visit!
My favorite entrypoint onto the trail is at Oak Street beach. From there you could either walk toward and past the skyline view into Milton Lee Olive Park or away from the skyline view until you hit the bridge to cross over into Lincoln Park.
8. Admire the indoor architecture
Chicago is known for its great architecture, and that extends to interiors as well. If you happen to be looking for something to do on a rainy or chillier day than this architecture interiors tour is the answer.
You’ll spend about two hours with a local guide, walking in and out of splendid buildings and learning about the city’s historic-cultural scene. This is a great way to get a more unique view of the city.
9. Take to the rooftops
As winter departs, the sky clears up and rooftop season is worthwhile again.
Whether you opt for a rooftop drink at the LondonHouse or Signature Room, or a tourist attraction like the Willis Tower skydeck you’ll be able to enjoy sweeping views over the city.
10. Visit a farmers’ market
As winter transitions through spring into summer in Chicago, farmers markets begin to take place outdoors again.
There are plenty to choose from across the city, so find one that’s in a neighborhood you’d like to explore outside of the Loop.
Head over early to beat the crowds. Grab a coffee, a pastry and anything else that catches your eye. Enjoy a picnic in the area and then spend some time walking around the broader neighborhood to get a feel for life outside of downtown.
What to Pack when Visiting Chicago in the Spring
Layering and weatherproofing are key when you’ll be in Chicago during springtime. Here are some of the things you really should take with you, in addition to some jeans or pants plus short or long sleeved t-shirts.
Comfortable shoes
You’ll spend a lot of time on your feet while exploring the city, so wear or pack at least one set of sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for spring, such as sneakers. I like my Allbirds, or my newer On Clouds.
Weatherproof jacket
Depending on when in spring you visit, pack a lightweight or fleece-lined rainproof windbreaker.
Sweaters
Take one or two sweaters or hoodies to layer over t-shirts or other tops.
Accessories
Sunglasses and a hat, scarf and gloves can help you cope with whatever the weather brings.
The best way to pack light and chic is by curating your own spring travel capsule wardrobe.
Where to Stay when Visiting Chicago in the Spring
Which is the best hotel for spring in Chicago? Well, this will depend on your plans while visiting the city.
Would you rather, for example, book a river-view suite for St Patrick’s Day, or a place near Wrigleyville if you’ll be coming for the Cubs season opener?
🏨 Luxury Hotel: The Langham Chicago
The Langham offers river views from the striking skyscraper it occupies. This 5-star hotel in Chicago also has a spa, an indoor pool, a gym and a couple of restaurants, one of which serves a sumptuous Afternoon Tea with Wedgwood tea sets.
👉 Check prices and availability
🏨 Mid-Range Hotel: Hotel Zachary
If you want to stay close to Wrigley Field, perhaps pick 4-star Hotel Zachary in the Lakeview neighborhood. It’s got modern rooms, a lobby cocktail bar and restaurant, and a gym, and is only one block from Addison Red Line train station.
👉 Check prices and availability
🏨 Budget Hotel: citizenM Chicago Downtown
Sleep in simple, yet stylish, accommodation at citizenM Chicago Downtown. This Travel Proud, pocket-friendly property serves a great breakfast, has a bar and restaurant on site, and offers incredible city views in central Chicago.
👉 Check prices and availability
Final Thoughts on Spring in Chicago
If you were thinking of heading to Chicago in the spring, I hope this guide has helped you make up your mind. Without the chills of winter and the crowds of summer, March through May can be the ideal time to visit Chicago.
Whether you follow the floral trail, party for St Patrick’s Day, catch the Cubs at Wrigley Field, or discover the local shopping scene, spring in Chicago is a fun time!
