Chicago FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting Chicago.

When is the best time to visit Chicago?

The best time to visit Chicago is April to October when the weather is warmest with the most sunshine. Spring arrives mid-March until May with average temperatures varying widely 4-19°C. May is generally the wettest month. Summer (June – early September) brings average temperatures ranging 20-28°C but can peak over 30°C with higher humidity, especially in July. The city comes alive in summer with a range of festivals. The weather in autumn (September-October) is comfortable with temperatures ranging 10-20°C. The autumn colours make this an attractive time to visit and quieter than summer. Winter temperatures (November-March) range 10°C to -5°C with often cold winds. Snow is most common December-February. Winter is a good time to explore the museums and warm up in the bars and restaurants.

What is the time difference between the UK and Chicago?

Chicago uses Central Standard Time (GMT – 6), observing Central Daylight Time (GMT – 5) March to November.

What places combine well with Chicago?

Chicago combines well with other destinations in the Lake Michigan region. Milwaukee is 1.5 hours’ drive north, the Door Peninsula is 4.5 hours north, while Traverse City is five hours north-east and Detroit 4.5 hours east. Minneapolis is six hours drive north-west.

What are the main cultural events in Chicago?

June – Chicago Blues Festival – a free festival attracting renowned artists to perform in Millennium Park
July – North Michigan Avenue Art Festival – works by more than 200 painters and artists showcased in Pioneer Court
August – Chicago Air and Water Show – aerial and boat displays on North Avenue Beach including jets and parachute teams
August – Lollapalooza – huge music festival in Grant Park with more than 130 acts
September – Chicago Jazz Festival – free concerts in Millennium Park and Grant Park
September – Taste of Chicago – food festival and live music in Grant Park
November – Thanksgiving Parade – huge parade that rivals New York, attracting over 300,000 people