When summer begins, Chicagoans head to the beaches, parks, and festivities along Lake Michigan. The beginning of summer is often cool, but late summer can be warm. Layers are essential regardless of the season, as the weather might change dramatically. Summer often brings an increase in hotel costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fall is nice until mid-November, when temperatures drop, and spring does not become consistently comfortable until late April. Between May and November, you may mix seasonless indoor activities with the social draw of the outdoors at the lakefront, on Chicago Riverboats, and at Millennium Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In Chicago, there are trade-offs between weather and price. In January and February, the “hawk” (a local term for the fierce wind off Lake Michigan) blows down Michigan Avenue, and snow covers the streets. However, accommodation costs are low, and attractions are rather uncrowded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n