Visiting Chicago in August offers warm yet humid weather. Even when there is an increased chance of rain, it’s still a great time to see Chicago’s famous landmarks and enjoy the city.
Below, you’ll find our guide on what to expect
- with the weather
- what to pack and wear
- events that you can attend
- and the best things to do
That way you can plan your itinerary accordingly.
This article was written by a Chicago resident and will answer all your questions about visiting Chicago in August.
August Tour Tips
When visiting in August we recommend a river cruise (must-do!), the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel, and visiting the Willis Tower Skydeck. Tip: Get your tickets for the cruise in advance if possible. These cruises sell out quickly in the summer. Find more activity tips (including free ones) at the bottom of this article.
Weather
Chicago in August is warm and pleasant with an average high temperature of 81°F (27°C). With an average rainfall of about 9-10 days during this month, you can expect the weather to be pretty humid.
Average Temperature
In August, the average high temperature starts at 85°F and slowly decreases to about 79°F toward the end of the month as Chicago shifts into fall. In the morning, temperatures are typically in the low 70s, with the hottest temperatures hitting around 3 pm each day.
Average high temperatures in August:
- Early August: 85°F (29°C)
- Mid-August: 81°F (27°C)
- Late August: 79°F (26°C)
Typical temperature progression during a day in August:
- Morning: 73°F (23°C)
- Afternoon: 80°F (27°C)
- Late Evening: 75°F (24°C)
In the evenings, the temperatures remain around the high 70s to low 80s. We promise it will feel cooler in the evenings, even with higher temperatures, once the sun goes down.
If you’re looking for the weather and more visiting tips during other months, please check out our complete guide about the best time to visit Chicago.
Rainfall
In August, it rains an average of 9-10 days, with only about three days offering heavy rain. During this month, the average rainfall is about 3.4″. While it may seem like a lot of rain, it’s often dry and hot. However, the rain provides the opportunity to explore the famous museums of Chicago like the Art Institute.
Can You Swim in August in Lake Michigan
Throughout August in Chicago, Lake Michigan is comfortable for swimming, particularly on hot and humid summer days. When the air temperature is in the 80s, the water usually feels great. Swimming is only permitted in designated areas at the beaches when lifeguards are on duty (11 AM – 7 PM).
Keep in mind that you are not allowed to swim outside the designated zones. There is no fee, as admission to Chicago’s beaches is free. The beach season runs until early September (Labor Day).
What to Wear / What to Pack
During August in Chicago, the weather is quite humid and you should wear light layers during the day. This includes cotton shirts and shorts/pants. Most visitors and locals wear dresses during this month to keep cool.
Morning/Evening
In the morning and evening, you’ll want to bring a light waterproof jacket. Because the weather is unpredictable, you may experience rain during these times. If possible, wear waterproof or water-resistant shoes to avoid walking around with wet socks during the day.
We also recommend extra socks if you get stuck in the rain. If possible, bring a raincoat with you, especially when rain is expected. Otherwise, light long sleeve tops, breathable pants/shorts, and comfortable shoes are great for mornings and evenings.
Daytime
While there is still a chance of rain during the day, you’re more likely to encounter sunny or cloudy weather with humidity. Wearing light clothing during this time is ideal as the high level of moisture will make the temperature feel warmer.
💡 Even on hot days, bring a light sweater as some restaurants really crank up the air conditioning. That’s a lifesaver if you get cold easily.
If it’s sunny out, wear a cap or hat as it’s easy to get sunburned, especially when you’re not in the shadows of the skyscrapers. Wear comfortable sneakers, a breathable t-shirt, and shorts for exploring the city. You may want to bring a light water-resistant jacket in case rain occurs.
What to Wear and Packing List
- Raincoat or light waterproof jacket (necessary for rainy days/unpredictable weather)
- Light, breathable shirts
- T-shirts/blouses
- Light shorts/pants
- Caps or hats (during sunny days)
- Water-resistant shoes/comfortable shoes
- Multiple pairs of socks (necessary when rain is present)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimsuit/swimwear
- Pajamas
- Sunscreen
Crowds
August in Chicago brings many people – both tourists and locals. You can expect busy popular places and a good amount of people to be out and about enjoying the weather. The beginning of August is typically more crowded as families visit the city before school starts.
Avoid the crowds by arriving at activities as early as possible. If you can arrive when the doors open, you should have about an hour without long lines for most locations like museums or restaurants.
Rates
As crowds are relatively high in August, you can expect higher rates for hotels and flights. Try to book your accommodation and flights as early as possible. Otherwise, you may not get the dates you want for your hotel and flights.
Things to Do
August offers some of the best activities in Chicago, with options for indoor and outdoor choices. You can choose from free exercise classes in Millennium Park, free concerts, walking along the Chicago Riverwalk, exploring the historic district on Milwaukee Ave., or hunting down street art. Below, you’ll find additional free and paid things to do while visiting the city.
Architecture River Cruise
Chicago River architecture tours are a must-see for anyone visiting Chicago for the first time and August offers the perfect weather for a cruise. It’s a great way to get acquainted with the city while floating along on a boat. You’ll be learning about the most famous skyscrapers like the Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower).
Tickets and more information can be found here: Chicago River: 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Tour. IMPORTANT: We highly recommend making a reservation in advance in August, as the cruises are very popular. However, you are free to try getting a ticket on short notice of course.
- When: Year-round | Best in the summer
- Where: Corner of Michigan (DuSable) Bridge
- Price: about $40 per person
Navy Pier Centennial Wheel
The Centennial Wheel is one of the most iconic activities in Chicago and a must-do in August. This 200-foot Ferris wheel offers spectacular panoramic views of the Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan, and Navy Pier.
The standard tickets are great for times when there are fewer crowds, like rainy days. As it will be quite crowded in August, you can purchase the express tickets to jump to the front of the line. If you have children under the age of 2, they can ride for free.
Recommended tickets and more information can be found here: Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Regular & Express Ticket.
- When: Year-round
- Where: 600 E. Grand Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60611
- Price: $19.62 per person for standard entry, $30.52 per person for express entry
Art Institute Tour (Before Opening Hours)
If you’ve never experienced the Art Institute in Chicago, we highly recommend visiting this location in August, primarily via this tour. You’ll be able to recognize this famous building by the green lions that “guard” the exterior, which is also the meeting point for the tour.
Inside, you’ll be guided through sections of the museum that are filled with paintings, sculptures, and other mediums by the likes of Picasso and Rembrandt. Purchase skip-the-line tickets (highly recommended) and find additional details here: Art Institute Tour.
- When: Year-round
- Where: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
- Price: $115.54 per person
Walking by Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is stunning to see, but nothing beats walking along the lake nearby Navy Pier on a sunny day in August. This route allows you to view the famous Ferris wheel with the skyline of Chicago in the background.
We love this route as it will take you alongside the beach. You can walk, jog, or bike ride on this path.
- When: Year-round
- Where: Lakefront trail off Fullerton Avenue
- Price: Free
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 August. The tour lasts for 60 minutes and discusses the history of this building erected in 1921 as a movie theater.
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 during August. They offer fantastic magic shows! 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 one of those rainy days in August! With so many interactive exhibits and unforgettable experiences, exploring the museum might take more than one day. So, it will definitely keep you entertained and educated on one or more unpleasant days in August.
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 particularly in August 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. Your kids will love it!
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 August, the 360 Observation Deck is a must-visit. Soaring 1,000 feet over Chicago’s legendary Michigan Avenue, 360 is one of Chicago’s most impressive attractions.
Tickets to skip the line (recommended) for a faster entry: 360 Observation Deck – Skip the Ticket Desk.
Events
There are many exciting events in August in Chicago. Here are a few that you can attend while visiting during this month.
Chicago Air and Water Show
The Air and Water Show is one of the most anticipated events in Chicago each year. During this time, large crowds of tourists and locals head to North Avenue Beach to watch water skiing, boat jumping, parachuting, and planes controlled by the Navy Blue Angels dipping and diving in the sky.
- When: August 20-21
- Where: North Avenue Beach
- Price: Free
Windy City Smokeout
The Windy City Smokeout is a large concert event held annually in Chicago’s United Center parking lot. It features live music performances, craft beer, and amazing BBQ from the best chefs worldwide.
This is great for adults and children. Children 10 and under get free entry to this event.
- When: August 4-7
- Where: United Center parking lot 1901 West Madison Street, Chicago, IL 60612
- Price: $49.95 per day/person + fees