Let’s be real: April in Chicago is a full-blown rollercoaster. One day you’re sipping cold brew in a T-shirt, the next you’re dodging snowflakes and wondering why you ever packed away your winter boots. Welcome to spring in the Midwest — where “unpredictable” is basically the forecast.
This month doesn’t really pick a lane — but that’s kind of what makes it exciting. If you like your weather with a side of suspense, you’re in for a ride.
Temps That Flirt with Warmth (But Don’t Commit)
Daytime highs? Mid to upper 50s, sometimes into the 60s. It’ll feel amazing compared to February’s icy grip, but don’t be fooled — nights can still dip down to the 30s. You’ll start your day with a coat, end it in a T-shirt, and probably need both somewhere in between.
In other words: layers, layers, and more layers.
Finally Some Sunshine, and We Deserve It
We’re slowly crawling out of the gloom — Chicago sees about 7 hours of sunshine a day in April. And by month’s end, daylight stretches well past 7 p.m. Cue the after-work walks, patio drinks (with a space heater nearby), and finally feeling like we live in a city again.
That first warm day? You’ll know it when it hits — because half the city will be at the lakefront like it’s 85 and July. (Spoiler: it’s probably 58 and windy, but we’re out here anyway.)
Spring Showers = Mood Swings
Rain in April? Oh, absolutely. We’re looking at around 4 inches of it, sprinkled across half the month. It’s usually light but annoying — the kind of rain that sneaks up on you just as you’ve walked too far from shelter. Keep a mini umbrella in your bag. Seriously, it’s worth it.
Yeah… It Can Still Snow
Don’t get mad at the messenger, but yep — April snow happens. Not a blizzard (usually), but maybe a flurry or two. Just enough to make you dramatically whisper, “Why are we still here?” while scrolling Zillow listings in California.
But it melts fast, and honestly, it makes those first warm days feel even sweeter.
Baseball’s Back & The City Wakes Up
Here’s the good news: Baseball season kicks off, and that means the city starts to feel alive again. Wrigleyville fills with fans in hoodies and hats. Hot dogs taste better when it’s above 50. Even if the weather is weird, the energy is good.
And yes, the tulips start popping up downtown. Spring in Chicago might be moody, but when it shows up? It’s so worth the wait.
Pack for Three Seasons, and Enjoy the Madness
April in Chicago is basically the weather version of a group text: a little chaotic, slightly unpredictable, but oddly charming. It’s not perfect, but it’s ours.
So, layer up, keep your plans flexible, and let the city surprise you. After months of gray and cold, even a maybe sunny day feels like a small miracle.
