Things to Do in Chicago in the Spring Season

As the winter is getting milder and ground hog has approved the spring season prediction, we eagerly wait for the refreshing spring season in Chicago.

Yes, spring in the Windy City is the perfect time to explore the city’s refreshing make out after harsh winter. To be honest, with global warming lately winter season hasn’t been too hard on us.

But, still warmer weather is always a new start towards the welcoming of summer season. At the same time, seasonal transition has its own beauty in Chicago.

Summer is a peak season in Chicago, but spring season has its own charm. Especially if you are one of those who doesn’t like the hustle and bustle of heavy tourist crowd then your best time of the year to explore Chicago is spring season.

Whether you’re a local looking for a fresh weekend activity or a visitor planning a trip, here’s a unique guide to the best things to do in Chicago this spring.

1. Stroll Through the Chicago Botanic Garden

I love the good old saying, April Showers & May Flowers. Exactly, in Chicago Spring means flowers, and there’s no better place to see them than the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe.

You will have great time exploring over 385 acres of gardens at Chicago Botanic Garden.

At Chicago Botanic Garden you will have great time enjoying the colors of the tulips, cherry blossoms, and magnolias make for an enchanting springtime experience.

The Spring Garden Festival held at Chicago Botanic Garden towards the end of April is also a great time to visit. This festival features gardening workshops, plant sales, and live demonstrations.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful stroll before the crowds arrive.

2. Catch the Cherry Blossoms at Jackson Park

Yes, you don’t need to travel to Japan or Washington, D.C., to see cherry blossoms!

Chicago’s Jackson Park comes alive with delicate pink blooms in April. The park is a home to the Garden of the Phoenix.

Chicago’s Jackson Park is a great place to enjoy and admire the Cherry blossoms and enjoy the Japanese-inspired landscape.

Best Time to Visit: Mid-to-late April, depending on the weather.

3. Enjoy a Riverwalk Wine & Dine Experience

The Chicago Riverwalk reopens in full swing during spring season. It’s the perfect time to explore the waterfront restaurants and bars on the Chicago Riverwalk.

Trust me, you will have great time spending few hours easily on the water front. Grab a seat at one of the waterfront bars and enjoy a drink and watch the energy of the place.

My favorite spot is Tiny Tapp on the waterfront. Great place to relax and watch the scenery of boats sailing on the river.

Also, if bar scene is not your thing then simply walk along the river, taking in the skyline and fresh spring air.

For something extra special, book a springtime architecture boat tour.  Many boat tour companies, like Shoreline Sightseeing and Chicago Line Cruises, offer narrated tours that highlight the city’s historic buildings and design marvels.

You can also take advantage of Tall Ship Windy cruises on Lake Michigan during Spring season.

4. Celebrate at the Chicago Mayfest

Chicago loves a good festival, and Mayfest marks the unofficial start of outdoor festival season.

Mayfest is held in Lincoln Park every year. It features lively events including live music, delicious street food, and craft beer.

It’s a great way to embrace the city’s warm-weather vibes and socialize with fellow Chicagoans.

5. Explore the Garfield Park Conservatory’s Spring Flower Show

Known as “landscape art under glass,” the Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the best things to do in Chicago if you love plants.

Especially during spring season you can enjoy a special Spring Flower Show that fills the conservatory with colorful, fragrant blooms.

It’s an oasis of tropical and seasonal plants goes really good with a rainy spring day.

6. Watch the Cubs (or White Sox) at Opening Day

Personally I am not a hardcore baseball fan, but for those who are baseball crazy, I would say nothing screams spring in Chicago like baseball season!

Yes, I have been couple of times to baseball games both Cubs and White Sox, it was amazing experience.

So for those who haven’t experience or even tourist who loves baseball game, head to Wrigley Field to cheer on the Cubs or visit Guaranteed Rate Field for a White Sox game.

If you are visiting around the opening day then I insist to take advantage of excitement of Opening Day in April, with fans spilling into the streets, is an experience in itself.

Tip: Even if you don’t buy tickets to the game, just consider to hang out at Wrigleyville’s bars, like Murphy’s Bleachers and The Cubby Bear.

I guarantee you that you will have the best time as these bars are great places to catch the game with fellow fans.

7. Take a Bike Ride Along the Lakefront Trail

I would say if we ignore the uncertain weather conditions in Chicago then Spring is the good time to cycle or jog along the Chicago Lakefront Trail before the summer heat sets in.

The Chicago lakefront tail is stretched over 18-mile path with stunning views of Lake Michigan, with stops at popular sites like Navy Pier, Grant Park, and North Avenue Beach.

If you are visiting Chicago then nothing to worry, you can easily rent a Divvy bike or if you are driving to Chicago then you can bring your own for a breezy lakeside adventure.

Best Spot for Photos: The stretch near Adler Planetarium offers one of the best skyline views in the city.

8. Visit the Art Institute’s Spring Exhibitions

If you’re in the mood for art then I recommend to consider visiting the Art Institute of Chicago. Why? Many of us don’t know that the Art Institute of Chicago always curates stunning spring art exhibitions.

Believe me, whether you’re admiring Monet’s water lilies or exploring contemporary installations, this world-renowned museum is an excellent escape for art lovers.

9. Go Rooftop Bar Hopping

Good weather in Chicago means take every little reason to be outdoor. Speaking of staying outdoor, as we all know Spring brings pleasant weather that means rooftop season is back!

Chicago’s rooftop bars offer unbeatable city views, creative cocktails, and an electric atmosphere.

I recommend few of the following rooftop bars that you must-visit if you get chance:

• Cindy’s Rooftop – Overlooks Millennium Park with a great cocktail menu.
• LH Rooftop at LondonHouse – Offers one of the best views of the Chicago River.
• Kennedy Rooftop – A hidden gem in Wicker Park with stunning skyline views.
• Roof on the Wit – It’s a hotspot once weather starts to warm up in spring season.

10. Take Part in the Shamrock Shuffle

If you’re a runner, the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle in late March is a fantastic way to kick off the spring season.

This 8K race weaves through downtown Chicago. During this run all participants are dressed in festive green attire celebrating the city’s strong Irish heritage.

Quick Tip: If you have never celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, then I insist you to plan your visit Chicago on Saint Patrick’s Day to experience the energy and green color dying of the Chicago River.

11. Visit Zoos in Chicago

Whether you are visitors or locals with kids, I highly recommend to consider a visit to one of the zoos in Chicago during spring. It is a fantastic experience as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and pleasant weather.

The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest free zoos in the country. It offers free admission year round. Families with kids or adults can have great time exploring mix of wildlife and scenic walking paths. I would say it makes it perfect for a spring outing.

Meanwhile, Brookfield Zoo is also known for its expansive exhibits and interactive experiences. It provides an opportunity to see animals emerging from their winter habits.

I highly recommend families with kids to visit Brookfield Zoo during spring as season brings special events, animal births, and outdoor activities at the zoo. It makes it an ideal time to explore and appreciate nature.

Whether you’re with family or friends, a trip to Chicago’s zoos in spring promises an enjoyable and educational adventure.

I hope I have covered enough things to do in spring season in Chicago for your reference to lift up the spring season vibes to spring forward in Chicago.

In my opinion Spring season is an exciting time filled with blooming landscapes, lively festivals, and outdoor adventures in Chicago.

Whether you’re admiring cherry blossoms, sipping cocktails on a rooftop, or catching a baseball game, our beloved Windy city offers something fun for everyone to welcome the warm weather.

 So, get ready to put away your winter coat and step outside to make the most of Chicago’s vibrant springtime scene!

Happy Spring Forward always in Chicago!