When to go to Chicago?

Chicago (United States)
Photo: J. Crocker · Attribution · via Wikimedia Commons

Cloud Gate curves the entire skyline into one polished reflection, and Millennium Park fills around it whatever the season. Higher up, the Willis Tower Skydeck puts a pane of glass between your shoes and the street. The best view stays at water level, though, on an architecture cruise along the Chicago River, before Navy Pier lights up the lakefront.

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The best time to go

For the best weather in Chicago, aim for May to September.

See also: Where to go in May? · Where to go in June? · Where to go in July? · Where to go in August?

Month-by-month weather in Chicago

Month☀️ h/day🌧️ mm🌡️ °CScore /100
January 4.7 68 -4 48
February 8.1 63 -0 61
March 7.7 114 4 54
April 8.7 99 9 59
May 10.5 98 15 68
June 11.9 67 21 80
July 11.5 201 23 69
August 11.4 109 22 76
September 9.7 107 20 69
October 8.4 89 13 63
November 6.3 56 6 56
December 4.2 61 1 47

Estimated from 3 years of data. The score (0–100) combines sunshine, dry weather, clear skies and temperature.

The climate in brief

In Chicago, the sunniest month is June, and the driest is November (about 56 mm). Temperatures peak in July (about 23°C). Over the year, an average of 1,131 mm of rain falls, and 5 months in 12 offer ideal weather for a trip.

What to do in Chicago?

Practical info

Destinations near Chicago

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