Best Time to Visit Chicago

Chicago's weather decides what kind of trip you'll have. From late May to September, the city lives outdoors on beaches, patios and rooftops. From December to March, it retreats indoors, and the wind off the lake makes a cold day feel much colder.

June and September are the sweet spot. Days are warm, evenings long, and the lakefront is in full use, but without the peak of the summer crowds and heat. September brings some of the best weather of the year.

July and August are the peak. Temperatures are often around 30°C (the mid 80s °F) and can be humid, though a breeze off the lake cools the shoreline. The beaches are at their busiest, boat tours run constantly and there's a festival most weekends: Lollapalooza fills Grant Park in late July or early August, the Air and Water Show roars over North Avenue Beach in August, and neighbourhood street fairs run all season. Hotels are at their most expensive.

Autumn is short and lovely. October brings colour to Lincoln Park and the Chicago Marathon, then the weather turns fast in November.

Winter is serious. January and February average well below freezing, with snow and wind chills that can drop far below zero on the worst days. The city copes, and it has its charms: the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza, skating in Millennium Park and museums without queues. Hotels are at their cheapest.

Spring comes late and unpredictably. March and April can bring snow one week and warm sunshine the next. The river is dyed bright green for the St Patrick's Day parade in March, a tradition since 1962.

Month by month

• March to May: changeable, cool, St Patrick's Day, the first patio days.
• June to August: warm to hot, festivals, beaches, peak prices.
• September and October: mild, clear, the marathon, autumn colour.
• November to February: cold, windy, Christmas markets, lowest prices.

Check our what to wear guide before a winter trip.