Chicago in April – Travel Guide

Traveling to Chicago in April brings several highlights, such as melting snow, rising temperatures, the start of baseball season, and an increased number of people enjoying the city.

While the crowds are increasing this month, hotel rates continue to be quite affordable compared to the summer months.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Fodor's Chicago (Full-color Travel Guide)
  • Fodor's Travel Guides (Author)
SaleBestseller No. 2
Bestseller No. 3
Lonely Planet Chicago (Travel Guide)
  • Zimmerman, Karla (Author)

As a Chicago local,  I have been able to create this in-depth guide on what to pack, activities, weather, and more:

  • April Weather Overview
  • What to Wear | Outfits | Packing List
  • Crowds in April
  • Rates and Hotel Tips
  • The Best Things to Do in April
  • 5 Top Food Spots (at the end of this article 💡)

Essential links (save them):

🎟️ Best Chicago Tours/Cheap Tickets
🏠 Low-Price Chicago Hotel Deals

All of the links above open in a new tab. They are incredibly useful for your Chicago trip.

For each month, we provide tips for

Must-Do Activity in April: River Cruise

If you’re visiting Chicago in April, a river cruise is an absolute must-do, the highlight of the city’s attractions.

It’s a breathtaking journey where the vibrant spring colors along the riverbanks come to life during this month. Among all the fantastic experiences in Chicago, cruising the river during in April stands out as a truly unique adventure, offering unparalleled views of the city’s iconic architecture.

💡 It’s an experience so enchanting that if you choose just one activity in Chicago, make it a river cruise in April!

Weather in April

April in Chicago offers mild days with an average high of 59°F (15°C). At this temperature, snow is melting quickly, and nearly all precipitation is rainfall. While this is not the wettest month you can expect between 9 and 12 days of rain.

The saying “April showers bring May flowers” is correct to describe Chicago in April weather because of the rain.

Average Temperatures
  • Early April: 51°F (11°C)
  • Mid-April: 56°F (13°C)
  • Late April: 62°F (17°C)

The month starts with a high of 51°F and ends at a warm 62°F. You will love visiting Chicago in April as the temperatures are warm enough to do outdoor activities like walking, yet the breeze keeps you cool even in the sun.

Morning / Daytime / Evening Temperatures
At the Navy Pier in April

Typical temperature progression during the day in April (average temperatures):

  • Very early morning (6 AM): 45°F
  • Morning: (8 AM): 47°F
  • Afternoon (3 PM): 55°F
  • Late Evening: (9 PM): 48°F

The temperatures stay in the high forties during the early morning, then shift into the highest temperature around 3 pm. Expect the average low to drop into the forties again in the evenings.

Quote from a local: It is really hit or miss in April. We have been outside in shorts and parkas in the same week during the month. Pants, jackets, layers. Always prepare for rain. However, early spring is an excellent time to visit the city as it’s not too crowded, and often pleasant.

Keep in mind, it can be quite chilly outside in the mornings and late evenings. We recommend checking the local forecast daily while visiting Chicago because the weather can abruptly change during the month. Additionally, check the 7-day forecast while packing your suitcase.

Rainfall

April in Chicago averages over a week of rain typically. As the month continues, the rainfall shifts from 2.4″ at the beginning to 3.2″ by the end of April. If you are traveling to Chicago this month, it’s best to bring rain gear like a waterproof jacket and boots.

Wind

April is known as a windy month, offering an average wind speed of about 13 MPH. If you are near Lake Michigan, the wind will be more apparent as the skyscrapers will not block it out. Thus it feels colder than at other places in the city.

💡 This article was written by our Chicago resident!

Must-Do Tours and Activities

I highly recommend all three tours and activities in April, especially the river cruise! Please click on the banner above to check the details. You receive a mobile voucher, which is very comfortable and will save you a lot of time!

What to Wear | Outfits

On a sunny day in April at ‘The Bean’ (Millennium Park)

While you will need layers in Chicago during April (like with most months), much fewer are needed. Expect to bring a light jacket, t-shirts/light long sleeves, shorts or thinner pants like cotton, and waterproof shoes/boots.

Morning/Evening

It is chillier during the mornings and evenings, especially before the sun is out and after sunset. These are the times when you’ll need a jacket or even a thicker sweater. This changes depending on when you are visiting during the month.

For early April, I recommend packing a sweater:

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Otherwise, an acceptable outfit is a long-sleeved shirt, medium to thin pants, waterproof shoes or boots, a jacket, and a hat if you run on the colder side.

Daytime
Harbor Lighthouse

In the daytime, it feels much warmer in the sun. It’s typical to go out in the early morning with multiple layers only to discard your jacket by mid-afternoon.

Essential: Rain Jacket
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You can wear a long-sleeved shirt, medium-thin pants, waterproof shoes (like sneakers), and sunglasses to block out the reflected sun from the leftover snow.

April Quick Tip: While temperatures are mostly pleasant, rain is always possible. Bring a rain jacket and comfortable water-resistant shoes.

April Basic What To Wear List
  • Light rain jacket (necessary for staying dry when outside)
  • Rainboots or waterproof sneakers
  • Long-sleeved shirt or t-shirt
  • Medium thickness to thin pants
  • Warm sweater
  • Hat
Shoes/Sneakers
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Many areas of Chicago are best seen on foot, so it’s important to have comfortable shoes. (Check out our tips on attractions to hit at the end of this article!).

For sneakers, pack comfortable shoes in dark colors as they will be less likely to show dirt from the city streets. Make sure you try out all your shoes before packing so you know they will be comfortable and won’t give you blisters.

Accessories

For going out at night, bring a purse or small bag. During the day, you may need a larger bag for carrying water, your wallet, your phone, and hand sanitizer.

Additionally, I highly recommend a bag with anti-theft features (see our recommendation above) to keep your belongings safe in the city!

Crowds

The Union Station on a very early morning in April

Expect crowds to be average in Chicago in April. As the month continues and the weather gets warmer, more people will be outside, including locals and tourists. During this time, crowds are handleable.

Hotels and Rates

The Blackstone Autograph Collection is a remarkable and extraordinary 4-star hotel in Chicago. The location is superb. We love this place in April! Click on the image for rates, reviews, and more (via booking.com)

As the number of people in Chicago rises, so do hotel prices. Accommodation rates remain relatively reasonable, though the possibility of getting cheap deals begins to decline for Chicago hotels this month.

Tip: Make sure to search and bookmark the two biggest hotel sites and compare rates:

Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park
The Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park. Click on the image for rates, photos, and reviews via booking.com.

The staff is super friendly, our beds were very comfortable, everything was 100% clean and its location is perfect for a visit:  It is only 1 block away from Millennium Park and Navy Pier. You can walk easily to so many hot spots.  It’s also quite close to Lake Michigan beach (20 minutes walk).

Trump International Hotel & Tower
The Trump. Click on the image for rates, photos, and reviews via booking.com.

This hotel offers spectacular views from every room! The view of Lake Michigan, the Chicago River, or the city skyline is iconic. It’s simply the best location when you visit in April.

It is very comfortable from here to join a hop-on/off bus tour, walk along the river or to the Navy Pier, and walk to various restaurants and many other area attractions.

The rooms are luxurious, and spacious, with everything you need.

Home2 Suites By Hilton | Budget Tip
Home2 Suites is our budget tip. Its location is excellent for winter visits. You are so close to ‘Mag Mile’. Click on the image for details, rates, and photos via booking.com. Thanks to Harry Carmichael for the photo.

This is our favorite budget hotel in Chicago in April! The location is excellent: It is located in Chicago’s River North district, a short walk from the Magnificent Mile’s (Mag Mile), shops, and restaurants. The Navy Pier, downtown, and the Chicago Loop are less than 15 minutes away.

Another thing we loved when we stayed there: You can prepare your own food in the room.

Things To Do in April

Lincoln Park Conservancy botanical gardens is another great place to visit in the spring. Check the official website if there is a spring flower shower in April

April is an exciting time for Chicagoans, as they live for the warmer weather. Because of this, you’ll find ample indoor and outdoor activities available. Below are some examples of ways to spend your time when visiting the city.

Local Tips: ‘For outdoor activities in April, let the weather be your guide. It can be an iffy month in Chicago: Sometimes unpleasant, drizzly, and even snowflakes may fall early in the month. On the other hand, it can also be warm and mild. Take this into consideration for any activities and when planning to visit 360 Chicago. Check the forecast for the next day, and if it’s nice, get out and walk the RiverWalk, see the “Bean” in Millenium Park, or take an architecture cruise on the river. If not, there are all those bars, restaurants, and world-class museums.’

💡 We highly recommend booking some activities in advance (see the banners above and below). That way, you save time (you receive a mobile voucher = no standing in line) and enjoy everything without stress.

If the weather is warm and sunny, I would try to take a boat tour. I like Wendella. But be sure to do the lake and river tour as that gives you a nice idea of our city with breathtaking views.

Water Taxi
Chicago water taxi in late April

The water taxi operates from March to late November depending on the weather. However, check the official website for more updates and details: Chicago Water Taxi

Visit The Cherry Blossoms
  • When: Spring
  • Where: Jackson Park, 6401 S Stony Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60637
  • Price: Free

Jackson Park in Chicago houses cherry blossom trees that bloom each April. This park features 160 trees that can be viewed by foot. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful greenery by bringing your family to the park.

You’ll find Jackson Park located near the Museum of Science and Industry. After visiting this museum, stop by the park and enjoy lunch by the cherry blossoms.

Architecture River Cruise
  • When: Year-round | Best from April to September/October

Chicago is known for its architecture, and seeing it by cruise is a great way. You’ll get to enjoy the captivating skyline while learning about the architecture of the city. The best cruise is the Architecture River Cruise.

Tip: Book well in advance and check the weather 2-3 days before the tour. If there will be too much rain, just cancel (you will get a full refund!) and book for another day.

In the winter months, most tours were shut down as the water will be frozen in some areas, and the temperatures will be too frigid. However, some boats operate year-round with heated interiors,

April is the first month when locals recommend taking a river cruise, as you can enjoy a tour on the upper deck of a boat again, especially on a sunny day. Dress accordingly and use layers!

The Chicago Theatre Marquee Tour (Year-round)
  • When: Year-round, great in April
  • Where: 175 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601
  • Price: $18 per person

This tour of the Chicago Theatre Marquee is a perfect activity to try on a rainy day in March. The tour lasts for 60 minutes and discusses the history of this building erected in 1921 as a movie theater. You’ll be guided through the lobby, auditorium, dressing rooms, and other areas of the Chicago Theatre Marquee.

Purchase tickets and find additional information here: The Chicago Theatre Marquee Tour.

The Magic Parlour (Year-round)
  • When: Fridays + Saturdays year-round
  • Where: 17 E Monroe Street, Chicago IL 60603
  • Price: $79 per person

Take your family (12+ years old) to view a show at The Magic Parlour in Chicago. This location offers magic shows that have been running for years. You’ll find a fancy yet intimate setting inside as only 50 people can view shows at a time.

There is a dress code for the shows, which is noted as cocktail attire. Expect to be called up on stage at any point during the show. The magician (Dennis Watkins) has been featured on larger TV channels like FOX, ABC, and WGN.

Find more information and purchase tickets here: The Magic Parlour Chicago.

Museum of Science and Industry
  • When: Year-round | Great in April
  • Where: 213 W Institute Pl, Chicago, IL 60610
  • Price: $10 entry fee

The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago is fun to explore science on a rainy day in April! This is a year-round science study paradise, but especially during some unpleasant Chicago spring days!

With so many interactive exhibits and unique experiences, exploring the museum might take more than one day. So, it will definitely keep you entertained and educated on one or more unpleasant April days.

Field Museum of Natural History
  • When: Year-round | Great in April
  • Where: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
  • Price: $26 ticket

The Field Museum of Natural History is worth visiting year-round, but especially in April on an unpleasant day. It holds over 35 world-renowned natural history exhibitions. Explore the subterranean life in the Underground Adventure exhibit.

Experience the gemstones in the Hall of Gems and one of the largest collections of Chinese jade in North America in the Hall of Jades.  Check out the Ice Age mammoth hunters and the temples of the Aztecs. Finally, visit the Dinosaur Hall Evolving Planet exhibit

360 Observation Deck
  • When: Tours available throughout the year
  • Where: 875 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
  • Price: $30 per person

If you spend only a few days in Chicago in March, the 360 Observation Deck is a must-visit. Soaring 1,000 feet over Chicago’s legendary Michigan Avenue, 360 is one of the city’s most impressive attractions.

Tickets to skip the line for a faster entry: 360 Observation Deck – Skip the Ticket Desk.

5 Top Food Spots | Restaurants

Restaurants on Rush Street, Chicago
1. Charly’s Burgers
  • BURGERS
  • Location: HERMOSA
  • Price: $
  • PERFECT FOR:
    • SERIOUS TAKE-OUT OPERATION
    • QUICK EATS

Charly’s Burgers, a spot in Hermosa, is perfect for when you’re craving a really good burger. These burgers are made with a mix of beef and bacon, giving them a juicy and smoky flavor. They’re topped with just the right amount of cheese, onions, garlic aioli, and pickles, all on a soft bun that stays together as you eat.

Why you should go: It’s the ideal burger spot for any time, not just when you’re feeling the effects of the night before. The combination of flavors and the quality of the ingredients make these burgers stand out.

Tip: Try to go at off-peak hours to avoid a long wait. And don’t forget to ask about their special sauces to add an extra zing to your burger!

2. Johnnie’s Beef
  • Hot dogs
  • Location: Suburbs
  • Price: $

Johnnie’s Beef is an old-school stand in Elmwood Park known for its Italian beef and ice. It’s a place that feels like stepping back in time, where the Italian beef sandwiches are a local legend.

Why you should go: It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience a true Chicago Italian beef. The long lines are a testament to its popularity, but the wait is worth it for that juicy beef, dipped with hot peppers, and a refreshing lemon Italian ice to cool down after.

Tip: Plan your visit to avoid the busiest times, usually around lunch and dinner. And if it’s your first time, trying the beef dipped with hot peppers is a must for the full experience.

3. Birrieria Zaragoza
  • Mexican
  • Location: Archer Heights
  • Price: $

Birrieria Zaragoza, a family-owned Mexican spot in Archer Heights, is known for its incredible goat meat dishes. They serve their food with thick handmade tortillas and fresh salsas, perfect for making tacos.

Why you should go: Their unique approach to birria, where the goat meat isn’t combined with consommé until it’s served, sets them apart. It’s a flavor experience that’s hard to find elsewhere, making it the best place for tacos in the city.

Tip: Don’t skip on the extras like the hot sauce, lime, and onions to customize your tacos to your taste. And try the bright-pink agua fresca for a refreshing drink alongside your meal.

4. Kasama
  • Restaurants
  • Filipino
  • Location: East Village
  • Price: $$

Kasama is a modern Filipino-American restaurant in East Village, offering both a casual daytime menu and a Michelin-starred tasting menu at night. It’s run by a husband-and-wife team known for their culinary expertise.

Why you should go: Whether you’re there for the breakfast sandwich in the morning or the 13-course tasting menu at night, Kasama provides an unforgettable dining experience. It’s a journey through Filipino-inspired dishes that are as innovative as they are delicious.

Tip: If dining indoors isn’t a must for you, consider ordering online for pickup. It’s a great way to enjoy Kasama’s offerings without the wait, especially on weekends.

5. The Publican
  • Restaurants
  • American
  • Location: West Loop
  • Price: $$

The Publican is a European-style beer hall in West Loop, specializing in pork and seafood. It’s known for its lively atmosphere and communal dining setup, inviting guests to share in the enjoyment of food and beer.

Why you should go: For a taste of everything from fresh oysters to charcuterie and seasonal plates, The Publican is a standout. Their commitment to sourcing ingredients from local farms adds to the freshness and quality of each dish.

Tip: The brunch at The Publican is among the best in the city, featuring items like maple-braised bacon. Don’t miss out on this weekend treat, and make sure to try the spicy pork rinds and bread from Publican Quality Bread.

 

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