Chicago is the perfect place for a weekend outing. From its world-renowned museums and theaters to its stunning skyline and miles of lakefront, there’s always something to do in Chicago. And if you want to get away from the city for a while or plan a destination wedding, there are plenty of charming small towns nearby where you can enjoy a quiet country weekend.
To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about spending a weekend in Chicago. Follow these tips to make the most out of your Chicago trip.
Choose the Right Time of Year to Visit
The best time to visit Chicago depends on what you want to do while you’re here. The spring and summer months are ideal if you’re interested in outdoor activities. From May to September, you can enjoy Chicago’s world-famous festivals, take a stroll down one of the city’s many beaches, or rent a boat and go for a sail on Lake Michigan.
If you’d rather avoid the crowds, you may want to visit during the fall or winter. Chicago is just as beautiful in the cooler months, and you’ll find that hotel rates and airfare are often cheaper. Plus, there are still plenty of things to do, from exploring the city’s Christmas markets to ice skating in Millennium Park.
Book Your Flights and Accommodations in Advance
No matter what time of year you visit Chicago, booking your flights and Chicago short term rentals well in advance is always a good idea. This is especially true if you’re visiting during peak tourist season (May-September). By booking early, you’ll have your choice of the best hotels and flights, and you’ll be able to get better deals.
If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money on your trip. For starters, try to fly into O’Hare International Airport, located just outside the city. From there, you can take advantage of Chicago’s excellent public transportation system to get around.
You can also save money by staying in a hotel located outside the downtown area. Chicago is a large city, and plenty of hotels in the suburbs offer excellent rates. Just be sure to factor in the cost of transportation when you’re budgeting for your trip.
Decide What You Want to Do Ahead of Time
Chicago is a huge city, and there’s so much to see and do that it can be overwhelming if you don’t plan ahead. Before you book your flights or reserve your hotel room, take some time to research the city and decide what you want to do while you’re here.
Do you want to spend your days exploring the many museums? Or are you more interested in shopping and dining? Maybe you’d like to catch a show at one of the city’s famous theaters. Whatever your interests, make sure to plan ahead to make the most of your time in Chicago.
Pack Appropriately for the Weather
As we mentioned before, the best time to visit Chicago depends on what you want to do while you’re here. If you’re planning on spending most of your time outdoors, you’ll want to visit during the warmer months. From May to September, the average temperature is low to mid-80s.
However, you should expect cooler temperatures if you’re visiting during the fall or winter. The average temperature in October is in the low 60s, and in November, it drops to the high 40s. December, January, and February are the coldest months, with an average temperature of about 30 degrees.
Final Word
No matter what time you visit Chicago, you’re sure to have a great time. Just be sure to plan ahead to make the most of your trip. And don’t forget to pack appropriately for the weather!