Travel to Chicago March for St. Patrick’s Day fun, early spring charm, great food, and fewer crowds. Find out what to pack, where to stay, and what to do this month.
Why March is a Great Time to Visit Chicago
March in Chicago is like a soft launch into spring. It’s the city’s gentle wake-up from hibernation, with enough wintery charm left to feel cozy and a growing buzz that spring is near. It’s also when locals start smiling again—especially when St. Patrick’s Day hits.
- Less crowded museums and attractions
- Lower prices than summer peak
- Exciting events, especially for St. Paddy’s Day
- A rare mix of snowflakes and sunshine
Weather in March: What to Expect
Chicago’s March weather is a bit like mood swings—sunny one minute, snowing the next. But that’s part of the charm.
- Average temperatures: 32°F to 49°F (0°C to 9°C)
- Occasional snowfall early in the month
- Some surprisingly mild, sunny days
What to Pack for Changing Weather
- Layers are your best friend: thermal top, sweater, medium jacket
- Waterproof shoes for snow OR slush
- Umbrella, just in case
Best Ways to Get to Chicago in March
Cheapest Flights & Booking Tips
- Look for mid-week departures and arrivals
- Use apps like Hopper or Google Flights for March price drops
Train or Bus Alternatives
- Amtrak: Scenic and comfy for nearby cities
- Greyhound or Megabus: Affordable and decent for budget travelers
Airport Transportation Info
- O’Hare (ORD): Blue Line train to downtown (~45 mins)
- Midway (MDW): Orange Line to downtown (~30 mins)
Where to Stay in March for Best Value
March hotel rates are still below summer highs, especially early in the month.
Hotels Near River Parade Routes
- LondonHouse Chicago – rooftop views
- Hyatt Regency Chicago – right on the riverwalk
Spring Hotel Deals
- Book direct for bonus perks: free breakfast, valet parking, etc.
- Look for “St. Patrick’s Packages” that include parade views or themed drinks
St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago: A Green Spectacle
St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago isn’t a party—it’s a full-on festival. The Chicago River literally runs green. Yes, green.
River Dyeing Tradition
- Happens the Saturday before March 17
- Begins around 10:00 AM
- Best views: Michigan Ave bridge or Wacker Drive
Parade Route & Schedule
- Starts at Balbo & Columbus, heads north
- Family-friendly, with music, dancers, floats
Pub Crawls & Local Celebrations
- Massive events in Wrigleyville, Lincoln Park, River North
- Wear green or risk playful scolding!
March Festivals & Events Beyond St. Paddy’s
- Chicago Beer Festival: Held at The Field Museum, with 60+ brewers
- Chicago Flower & Garden Show: Navy Pier turns into a floral wonderland
- Chicago International Movies & Music Fest (CIMMfest): Indie heaven
Top Attractions to Visit in March
Crowds are smaller, which means more time enjoying, less time waiting.
Indoor Favorites
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Skydeck at Willis Tower
- Field Museum
Seasonal Openings or Exhibits
- Spring gallery showings and installations
- The Adler Planetarium often hosts special March events
Family-Friendly Activities in Early Spring
Chicago warms up for spring break with a range of family fun.
- Lincoln Park Zoo: Free and home to a heated primate house
- Shedd Aquarium: Beluga whales, stingrays, penguins!
- Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier
Local Food Experiences to Try in March
March means comfort food + the first signs of spring menus.
Chicago-Style Dishes
- Deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s
- Italian beef at Portillo’s
- Chicago-style hot dogs (no ketchup!)
Spring Menus
- Seasonal ingredients start popping up
- Try Girl & the Goat or The Purple Pig for elevated flavors
Heated Patios & Rooftop Brunches
- Aba and Cindys offer rooftop brunching with heat lamps
Best Tours in March (Indoor & Outdoor Mix)
Architecture River Cruises
- Start late March, weather permitting
- Heated cabins make it cozy
Walking Tours in Milder Weather
- Chicago Greeter Program (FREE!)
- Wicker Park and Loop history walks
Food or Ghost Tours
- Ghost tours still run year-round
- Sample bites & stories in Old Town or Chinatown
Shopping in Chicago in March
- Magnificent Mile: Indoor malls like Water Tower Place
- State Street: Macy’s (formerly Marshall Field’s)
- Neighborhood Boutiques: Andersonville, Bucktown
Spring Sales
- Winter items get discounted
- Great time for coat or boot deals
Chicago on a Budget in March
Free or Cheap Things to Do
- Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory
- Chicago Cultural Center
- Garfield Park Conservatory
Discount Passes
- Go City Explorer Pass
- CityPASS Chicago
March Promos
- St. Patrick’s food & drink specials all month
- Off-season tour bundles
Safety and Travel Tips for March Visitors
Weather Transitions
- Rain and snow can happen on the same day
- Sidewalks may still be icy in early March
Local Safety Advice
- Stay in well-lit, populated areas after dark
- Use CTA or rideshare apps over random taxis
What to Pack for a March Trip to Chicago
- Essentials: light down jacket, boots, gloves
- Layers: sweaters, long sleeves, windbreaker
- Rain gear: compact umbrella, water-resistant shoes
- Day-to-night flexibility is key—some days feel like April!
3-Day Sample Itinerary for March Travelers
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Riverwalk stroll & river dyeing | Art Institute | Deep-dish pizza & pub crawl |
| Day 2 | Shedd Aquarium | CIMMfest event | Rooftop dinner at Cindy’s |
| Day 3 | Shopping on State St | Ghost tour or comedy club | Sunset drinks at Signature Room |
FAQs About Visiting Chicago in March
Q1: Is March still cold in Chicago?
A: Yes, especially early in the month, but it warms up later. Layers are key.
Q2: Do river cruises run in March?
A: Many start late March—check with companies like Wendella or Shoreline.
Q3: What’s the best time to visit for St. Patrick’s Day events?
A: The Saturday before March 17, when the river dyeing and main parade occur.
Q4: Are museums open in March?
A: Yes, all major museums are open and less crowded.
Q5: Is March a good time for deals?
A: Definitely—flights, hotels, and tours are often cheaper than April or summer.
Q6: Is it safe to visit Chicago in March?
A: Yes, just use basic precautions and check weather alerts during snow or rain.
Final Thoughts: Why March May Be the City’s Best-Kept Secret
Traveling to Chicago in March is like unlocking a VIP pass to the city before the crowds arrive. With festive parades, budding blossoms, incredible eats, and off-season prices, it’s one of the smartest—and most underrated—times to visit. Just bring a scarf, an appetite, and a splash of green, and you’re all set.
