United States, North America
Chicago in May
The city wakes up. Late May is excellent; early May can still be chilly near the water.
The straight answer
May is a good month to visit Chicago. The city wakes up. Late May is excellent; early May can still be chilly near the water.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 70F (21C), cool by the lake
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What May is like in Chicago
May is when the city wakes up. Highs reach near 70F (21C), though it stays cooler right on the lake, and early May can still feel chilly. Beer gardens and rooftop bars open, the river tours run daily, and the Lakefront Trail fills with runners and bikes. Crowds and prices are moderate until Memorial Day weekend.
This month suits nearly everyone, especially couples and families who want warm days without summer prices. Late May is excellent. If your dates are flexible, lean toward the end of the month, when the beaches open and the lake feels like summer.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Chicago this month.
Beaches open late in the month
Beaches officially open with lifeguards around Memorial Day. The water is still cold, but North Avenue Beach is a great spot for skyline views.
Lakefront Trail by bike
Rent a Divvy bike and ride the trail with the skyline beside you. Mornings are calm and the air is fresh.
Lincoln Park Zoo in spring
The free zoo is lively as animals spend more time outside. It pairs well with a walk through the park.
What to pack for May
- A light jacket for cool lakefront breezes
- Layers you can shed by midday
- Comfortable shoes for long city walks
- Sunscreen and sunglasses for bright days
Our timing tip
Aim for the last week of May for the warmest weather, but book early if your dates include Memorial Day weekend, when hotels fill.
Book Chicago for May.
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- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in ChicagoOpens a hotel search for Chicago in May, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in ChicagoWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in ChicagoTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Chicago for May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Chicago
Chicago Architecture Center river cruise
Runs roughly spring through fall. The first and last departures of the day are the most comfortable in summer.
Art Institute of Chicago
One of the great museums anywhere. Go at opening and head straight to the Impressionists before the crowds.
Millennium Park
Cloud Gate (the Bean), Crown Fountain, and free summer concerts at the Pritzker Pavilion. Early morning for photos.
Field Museum
Home of SUE, one of the most complete T. rex skeletons ever found. Plan at least half a day.
Museum of Science and Industry
A real U-boat, a coal mine, and a huge model railroad. Best on weekdays outside school field trip season.
Wrigley Field
A Cubs day game in summer is the classic Chicago afternoon. Tour days run when the team is away.
Beat the crowds
- Check the convention calendar at McCormick Place. Big shows can double hotel rates for a week.
- Buy museum tickets online and arrive at opening. The Field, Shedd, and MSI fill fast on summer weekends and during school breaks.
- Stay in a neighborhood like Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, or the West Loop and ride the L downtown. Rates are often better than the Loop and River North.
- September gives you summer weather with far fewer visitors. It is the best-value warm month.
Know before you go
- Architecture boat tours and many river cruises run roughly spring through fall and pause in winter.
- Beaches are officially open with lifeguards from about Memorial Day to Labor Day. Outside that window, swimming is not supervised.
- Winter never shuts the city down. Museums, theater, and restaurants run full schedules, and the L keeps moving in all but the worst storms.
- Wrigley Field and Sox park tours depend on the baseball schedule; check game days before you plan.
Chicago in May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Chicago?
May is a good month to visit Chicago. The city wakes up. Late May is excellent; early May can still be chilly near the water.
What is the weather like in Chicago in May?
Mild, highs near 70F (21C), cool by the lake.
Is Chicago crowded in May?
Crowds in Chicago are moderate in May; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
Keep planning Chicago.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
Before you book.
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