How do you know it’s spring in Chicago?
Birds are chirping, tulips are everywhere, everybody’s smiling, and people are wearing flip-flops and shorts even though it’s only fifty degrees. There’s even an occasional sighting of a sunbather on North Avenue Beach.
When it’s above freezing and the sun comes out more than two days a month, it’s time to celebrate!
Chicago in spring is delightful. The weather’s not perfect, and there’s a 99% chance of snow at some point in April and a 78% chance of frost in May, but after the long winter months in Chicago, it’s still a fantastic time to be in the Windy City.
The city’s motto is urbs in horto, which means city in a garden. Once the snow melts, Chicago truly lives up to that phrase, with tulips and daffodils popping up everywhere you look.
From stunning parks and gardens to exciting events and festivals, this guide has everything you need to plan your perfect springtime getaway to Chicago.
Don’t miss out on all these things to do in Chicago this spring!
Chicago in Spring
There may be affiliate links in this post, which means we may get a small commission. It’s at no extra cost to you and helps keep TLT free. Everybody wins!
Tips for Visiting Chicago in Spring
- Pack for unpredictable weather: Spring in Chicago can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from cool to warm and rain showers common. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket or umbrella.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Chicago is a walkable city, and spring is the perfect time to explore on foot. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for sightseeing and exploring the city.
- Check out the Chicago events calendar: Spring is the beginning of festival season in Chicago, with events happening nearly every weekend. Check out the events calendar and plan your trip around one of the city’s many festivals or upcoming events.
- Visit the parks and gardens: Spring time is the best time to visit Chicago’s parks and gardens, like Millennium Park and the Lincoln Park Zoo. Take a stroll and enjoy the blooming flowers and trees.
- Try the local food and drink: Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and craft beer, but there’s so much more. The city’s truly a culinary destination. From Stephanie Izard to Jimmy Bannos Jr., some of the best chefs in the country are in the Windy City.
- Take a riverboat tour: See the city from a different perspective with a riverboat tour. Spring is a great time to take a cruise on the Chicago River and learn about the city’s architecture and history.
- Book accommodations early: Spring is a popular time to visit Chicago, so be sure to book your accommodations early to ensure availability.
- Purchase a Chicago CityPASS: Save money and time with a Chicago CityPASS, which includes admission to five of the city’s top attractions, like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum. Check out our whole guide on things to do in Chicago on a budget.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to Chicago in the spring and have an unforgettable experience.
What’s Chicago Spring weather like?
Spring in Chicago is a season of transition, as the city slowly emerges from the cold and snow of winter and begins to warm up.
The weather can be quite unpredictable during this time. Temperatures range from the low 30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 3 to 18 degrees Celsius) in March, rising to the high 60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 18 to 23 degrees Celsius) in May.
While the weather can be mild and pleasant, it’s important to keep in mind that it can also be quite chilly and rainy, especially early in the season.
One of the best ways to prepare for the weather in Chicago in spring is to wear layers.
A light jacket or sweater, along with a waterproof or wind-resistant outer layer, will help you stay comfortable no matter what the weather brings.
It’s also a good idea to bring an umbrella or rain jacket, as spring in Chicago can bring frequent rain showers.
Overall, while the weather in Chicago in spring can be somewhat unpredictable, it’s generally mild and pleasant. With the right clothing and a little flexibility in your plans, you can enjoy all the season offers.
Related: after you’ve explored the city, check out one of these many delightful road trips from Chicago.
Things To Do in Spring in Chicago
While it’s a popular destination year-round, Spring in Chicago is particularly enchanting.
Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, this season is the perfect time to explore all that the Windy City has to offer.
Outdoor Chicago Spring Activities
Chicago weather may be mercurial in Spring, but there are still plenty of opportunities to get outside. Here are a few favorite things to do outside in Chicago in Spring.
Take a Chicago Architecture Cruise
A boat tour on the Chicago River is a great way to see the city’s architecture and learn about its history.
Several companies offer guided Chicago boat tours, which take visitors through the downtown area and offer stunning views of the city’s skyscrapers and landmarks.
Bike the Lakefront Trail
The Lakefront Trail runs along the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. It’s a popular spot for joggers, walkers, and cyclists, and offers stunning views of the lake and the city skyline.
Don’t worry about bringing your own two-wheeled transportation; you can rent a bike for the full day and explore Chicago at your leisure.
Shop the Magnificent Mile
Not only is the Magnificent Mile lined with exclusive shops and luxurious hotels, it’s also decorated with thousands of tulips. Literally: they plant over 100,000 tulip bulbs each fall.
One of the most famous shopping districts in the world lives up to the city’s motto of “Urbs in horto” in spring.
It’s more than just a place to buy stuff. This stretch of Michigan Avenue is where you’ll find the historic Water Tower.
It’s also home to the former Hancock Building, where you can find 360 Chicago.
Stroll the Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk is one of the best things to do in downtown Chicago in spring. Stretching from Lake Street to Lake Michigan, you can walk or run the 1.25 mile path.
While there are several restaurants along the Chicago Riverwalk, they don’t open until late spring or early summer.
Until then, you can bring your own lunch or simply enjoy the view.
Speaking of summer, don’t miss Chicago in summer.
In addition to restaurants, there’s a Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the McCormick Bridgehouse and Chicago River Museum.
The Riverwalk is also where you’ll board several boat tours and can even dock your own.
Discover Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a must-see destination in Chicago in any season, but it’s particularly lovely in the spring.
With its stunning architecture and sculptures, this beautiful public park is one of the city’s most popular outdoor attractions.
Spring is a particularly magical time to visit Millennium Park, as the gardens and trees begin to bloom with colorful flowers and foliage.
Stroll through the park’s Lurie Gardens and enjoy the vibrant sights and smells of spring.
One of the most iconic attractions in Millennium Park is Cloud Gate, also known as “The Bean.”
Taking a selfie with the sculpture is practically a must.
Play like a kid at Maggie Daley Park
Once you’ve toured Millennium Park, take the Frank Gehry-designed bridge to Maggie Daley Park.
Officially called the BP Pedestrian Bridge, it crosses over Columbus Drive from the Pritzker Pavilion.
The park has a skating ribbon that’s open to ice skaters in the winter. In the middle are climbing walls.
There’s also a giant playground that’s a delight no matter how old you are.
Explore Chicago’s (free) urban wildlife oasis
Lincoln Park Zoo is a unique destination that offers visitors a chance to explore the wonders of the animal kingdom without leaving the city.
The zoo is home to over 200 species of animals, from big cats to primates to birds, and is a great place to visit for families, animal lovers, and anyone who wants to experience the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
Spring is a fantastic time to visit Lincoln Park Zoo, as the weather is mild and the animals are often more active and playful.
Visitors can see the baby animals that are born in the spring, including baby gorillas, monkeys, and big cats.
The zoo’s gardens and parks also come to life in the spring, with colorful flowers and trees that provide a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
From hands-on activities for kids to educational talks and tours, there is always something happening at the zoo.
Lincoln Park Zoo is a beloved Chicago institution that has been educating and inspiring visitors for over 150 years.
In the spring, the zoo also hosts a variety of events, including an Easter egg hunt and Margarita & Sangria Fest.
Want to explore more of Chicago? Save up to 50% on Chicago attractions with Go City passes.
Soak in the Sun at a 3-Tiered Rooftop
Head to LondonHouse Chicago for amazing views from a three-tiered rooftop. LH22 generally opens mid-May, and this venue is so popular you have to make reservations.
For the ultimate convenience, book a room in this historic building while you’re at it.
Cheer on the home team(s)
With two Major League teams, Spring in Chicago means baseball.
Whether you root for the Chicago Cubs or the White Sox, or both, you can get your fix.
The two stadiums are both conveniently accessed by the Red Line, making them super easy to get to.
Go on a food tour
Chicago is famous for its food scene, and taking a food tour is a great way to experience the city’s eats.
The Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food & Walking Tour invites you to sample quintessential Chicago foods, including deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, chocolates, and pastries.
The tour covers an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km), making it suitable for most fitness levels, and all food tastings are included.
Like beer? You can upgrade and add three pours of local craft beer to your experience.
Ride a Segway along the lakefront
Have you ever ridden a Segway? If you have, you know how fun they are. If you haven’t, you’re in for a treat.
Begin your Chicago Lakefront and Museum Campus Segway Tour with an orientation on how to operate the vehicle and a brief practice session.
Then, cruise through the scenic paths of Grant Park, stopping at Buckingham Fountain.
Glide along the Chicago lakefront to take in breathtaking views of iconic attractions such as the Museum Campus, Shedd Aquarium, and The Field Museum.
You’ll also catch a glimpse of Soldier Field, the home field for the Chicago Bears. It’s an unforgettable way to experience Chicago.
Relax among acres of beautiful gardens
Experience the magic of the spring season at the Chicago Botanic Garden, where over a million blooms burst into color.
Meander through winding paths and be mesmerized by the stunning displays of tulips and daffodils.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of azaleas or find peace on a bench and take in the serene landscapes.
With 27 gardens and four natural areas, there’s always something new to discover at the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Go for a walk in the woods
Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois is a living museum with over 1,700 acres of natural landscapes and 16 miles of trails that wind through woodlands, prairies, and wetlands.
In the spring, Morton Arboretum becomes a vibrant wonderland, with colorful blooms and blossoms that paint the landscape with hues of pink, purple, and white.
The arboretum boasts an extensive collection of magnolias, lilacs, and other flowering trees that come to life in the spring, creating a stunning display of nature’s beauty.
In addition to the exhibits and trails, the museum hosts a range of special events and activities throughout the year, from plant sales to concerts to seasonal festivals.
Things to do inside in Chicago in Spring
Because Chicago’s weather in spring can be iffy, it’s a good idea to plan some indoor activities as well.
Luckily, the city’s got some of the best museums and attractions in the world.
These treasures make Chicago one of the best fun and educational spring break destinations.
Discover masterpieces spanning 5,000 years
The Art Institute of Chicago features an extensive collection of artwork that spans centuries and continents.
With more than 300,000 works of art on display, it’s one of the largest art museums in the world.
From ancient Greek and Roman sculptures to contemporary art, the museum’s collection includes works by some of the most celebrated artists in history, including Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Pablo Picasso.
Explore the museum’s galleries and exhibits to view a diverse range of art, from Renaissance paintings to modern photography.
One of the most famous artworks on display at the Art Institute of Chicago is Grant Wood’s American Gothic, an iconic painting that captures the spirit of rural America during the Great Depression.
Other notable exhibits include the Thorne Miniature Rooms, a collection of intricately designed miniature dioramas that showcase the interior design of different periods and styles.
In addition to the exhibits, the museum also offers a range of special programs and events, such as guided tours, lectures, and workshops.
Get tickets to the Art Institute of Chicago
Shoot for the stars
Located on the shore of Lake Michigan, Adler Planetarium is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in space and astronomy.
As the first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, Adler has a rich history of educating and inspiring visitors about the wonders of the universe.
Inside the planetarium, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that cover everything from the solar system to the latest advances in space technology.
One of the most popular exhibits is the Grainger Sky Theater, which features a state-of-the-art digital projection system that creates an immersive, 360-degree view of the cosmos.
In addition to the exhibits, Adler Planetarium also offers a range of programs and events, such as lectures by leading astronomers, telescope viewing sessions, and workshops for children and families.
A great time to visit for Illinois residents is Wednesday. Not only is the planetarium open until 10pm, it’s also free with proof of residency.
Marvel at the People’s Palace
The Chicago Cultural Center, known as the People’s Palace, is a stunning Beaux-Arts building that’s home to a variety of art exhibits and cultural events.
Visitors can admire the building’s beautiful architecture, as well as explore the galleries and attend free concerts and performances.
Originally built as the Chicago Public Library, this living landmark of Chicago has the largest Tiffany dome in the world.
Discover the wonders of science
The Museum of Science and Industry is a fascinating museum that’s dedicated to science and technology.
It’s one of the largest and most comprehensive science museums in the world, with over 400,000 square feet of exhibition space.
From the captivating exhibits on space exploration to the interactive displays on renewable energy, the Museum of Science and Industry has a wide range of permanent and temporary exhibits that will engage and inspire visitors.
Some of the must-see exhibits include the Coal Mine, where visitors can experience what it’s like to work in a mine, and the U-505 Submarine, the only German submarine captured during World War II.
Get a Chicago Explorer Pass, with tickets to the Museum of Science and Industry
Bonus: be sure to visit Jackson Park while you’re at the Museum of Science and Industry. It’s particularly beautiful in spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Dive into Chicago’s past
The Chicago History Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the city’s rich history and culture.
It features a variety of exhibits and artifacts, including a section dedicated to the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and a gallery showcasing the city’s role in the civil rights movement.
Explore the world’s past
The Field Museum is one of the largest natural history museums in the world, located in Chicago’s iconic Museum Campus.
Explore the world’s past and present through its extensive collection of artifacts, fossils, and specimens.
The museum’s exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, from ancient civilizations to prehistoric creatures to contemporary culture.
Step inside a Pawnee Earth Lodge, see what a Maori Meeting House is like, and hear the stories of Native American and Indigenous peoples.
One of the Field Museum’s most famous exhibits is “Sue,” the largest, most complete, and best-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever discovered.
Another must-see exhibit is “Inside Ancient Egypt,” where visitors can explore the mysteries and wonders of ancient Egypt through a collection of artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and hieroglyphics.
Get tickets to the Field Museum
See Chicago from above
Chicago has two sky-high observatories so you can get a birds eye view of the city and beyond.
Both Skydeck Chicago and 360 Chicago offer incredible views of Chicago, but each has its own unique attractions that make them worth a visit.
Skydeck Chicago: Located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), Skydeck Chicago is the highest observation deck in the United States.
Visitors can take a high-speed elevator up to the top, where they’ll be greeted with breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, including Lake Michigan, the Chicago River, and iconic landmarks like Navy Pier and the John Hancock Center.
One of the most thrilling attractions at Skydeck Chicago is The Ledge, a series of four glass boxes that extend out from the building’s façade, allowing visitors to step out into thin air and look straight down to the street 1,353 feet below.
It’s not for the faint of heart, but for those brave enough to try it, The Ledge provides an unforgettable experience.
Get tickets to Skydeck Chicago
360 Chicago: Formerly known as the John Hancock Observatory, 360 Chicago is located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center.
While it’s not quite as high as Skydeck Chicago, it still offers stunning views of the city from all sides.
A the top, you’ll find a café, bar, and gift shop in addition to the observation deck.
One of the unique attractions at 360 Chicago is Tilt, which allows visitors to lean out over North Michigan Avenue from a glass enclosure that slowly tilts outwards at a 30-degree angle.
It’s a thrilling experience that provides a unique perspective of the city.
Escape cabin fever at a conservatory
Garfield Park Conservatory and Lincoln Park Conservatory are two of Chicago’s most stunning botanical attractions.
Both conservatories are home to a vast array of plant species from around the world and offer visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in nature in the heart of the city.
The Palm House is one of the most popular areas of Garfield Park Conservatory.
Towering palms, ferns, and other tropical plants create an oasis in the middle of the city.
The conservatory’s other rooms showcase a range of ecosystems, from the desert to the rainforest.
Lincoln Park Conservatory, located next to Lincoln Park Zoo, is a Victorian-era greenhouse nurturing a variety of rare and exotic plants.
Wander through the conservatory’s various rooms, admiring the vibrant colors and intricate details of the flowers and foliage.
Spring in Chicago offers a plethora of activities for locals and tourists alike. From exploring the city’s outdoor spaces and taking in the beautiful skyline, to exploring the city’s world-class museums, there’s no shortage of things to do in the Windy City.
Whether you’re interested in arts and culture, history and architecture, or just want to soak up the atmosphere of one of America’s greatest cities, Chicago in spring is the perfect destination.
Don’t miss the chance to experience all the amazing activities that this vibrant city has to offer during this beautiful season.
Chicago in Spring FAQs
Is spring a good time to visit Chicago?
Spring is a great time to visit Chicago! The weather starts to warm up, and the city comes to life with beautiful blooming flowers and outdoor activities.
What is spring like in Chicago?
Spring in Chicago is typically mild, with temperatures ranging from around 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (4 to 21 degrees Celsius). It is a transitional season, with occasional rainy days but also plenty of sunshine.
Is Chicago a good place to go for spring break?
With a variety of museums, restaurants, and outdoor attractions, Chicago is a great place to visit for spring break.
What’s transportation like in Chicago?
Chicago has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains. You can purchase a Ventra card for easy and convenient access to all public transportation. You can also rent a bike from one of the many bike-sharing programs or take a water taxi along the Chicago River.
I plan to drive. What’s the parking situation?
Parking in Chicago can be challenging, especially in busy areas like downtown and popular neighborhoods. Check out this guide to Chicago parking.
What should I pack for a spring trip to Chicago?
Spring weather in Chicago can be unpredictable, so it’s best to pack layers. Bring a warm jacket, raincoat, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget a hat and gloves, as temperatures can still be chilly in the evenings.