March in Chicago is a month of transition, where the last whispers of winter can still be felt as the city slowly welcomes the first hints of spring. This period offers a unique opportunity for travelers to experience the Windy City amidst changing seasons, providing a variety of activities and sights that cater to this distinctive time of year. Understanding the weather patterns is crucial for planning your visit, so let’s dive into the essential weather statistics, activities, dining options, and cool facts about Chicago in March.
Chicago Weather in March
- Average Temperature Range: 32°F to 48°F (-0°C to 9°C)
- Humidity: Generally ranges from 65% to 70%
- Rainfall: Average of 2.5 inches (63.5 mm)
- Snowfall: Chicago can still experience snow in March, with an average of 5.6 inches (14.2 cm)
- Wind Speeds: Expect brisk winds averaging 10 to 20 mph (16 to 32 km/h)
- Sun Index: Moderate, with an average of 5 hours of sunshine per day
- Air Quality: Generally good but can fluctuate with changing weather patterns
- Sunrise and Sunset: Early March sunrise around 6:30 AM, sunset around 5:45 PM; late March sunrise around 6:45 AM, sunset around 7:15 PM
- High/Low Tide: Not applicable for Chicago as it is located by Lake Michigan, but lakefront conditions can vary
Top Five Activities in Chicago in March
- Chicago Flower & Garden Show: Welcome spring by exploring beautiful garden displays and floral arrangements at Navy Pier.
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade and River Dyeing: Celebrate with the city as the Chicago River turns a vibrant green, accompanied by a festive parade.
- Museum Visits: Take advantage of cooler days to explore The Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Field Museum without the peak season crowds.
- Lincoln Park Conservatory Spring Flower Show: Immerse yourself in spring blooms and tropical temperatures inside the conservatory.
- Ice Skating at Maggie Daley Park: Enjoy the tail end of winter activities with ice skating in this picturesque park, available through the first week of March.
Best Restaurants to Dine at in March
- The Purple Pig: Cozy up with Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Girl & The Goat: Indulge in innovative dishes at this renowned restaurant by Chef Stephanie Izard in the West Loop.
- Au Cheval: Treat yourself to what many consider the best burger in Chicago in a chic diner setting.
- Alinea: For a splurge, reserve a table at this world-class restaurant known for its molecular gastronomy and exceptional dining experience.
- Big Star: Enjoy tacos and whiskey in a lively, casual environment perfect for a chilly March evening.
Cool Facts About Chicago
- Chicago River Dyeing: A tradition since 1962, the dyeing of the Chicago River green for St. Patrick’s Day is a must-see event.
- Chicago’s Birthday: Celebrate Chicago’s incorporation as a city on March 4, 1837, with various events around the city.
- Cultural Celebrations: March in Chicago is rich with cultural events, including the European Union Film Festival showcasing cinema from EU countries.
- Third-largest city in the U.S.: Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States by population, following New York City and Los Angeles.
- Home to the first skyscraper: The Home Insurance Building, built in 1885, is considered the world’s first skyscraper. It was the first tall building to use a steel framework for support.
- Deep-dish pizza: Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, a unique take on the classic Italian dish with a thick crust and layers of cheese, meat, and sauce.
- Chicago River is dyed green annually: Every St. Patrick’s Day, the Chicago River is dyed green, a tradition that has been ongoing since 1962.
- Birthplace of the Ferris Wheel: The first Ferris wheel was built for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. It was designed by George Washington Gale Ferris Jr.
- Largest public library in the world: The Harold Washington Library Center in Chicago is the world’s largest public library, with more than 2 million books.
- Chicago has its own style of blues music: The city is known for “Chicago Blues,” a form of blues music that is electric and urban, evolving from the Mississippi Delta blues that migrants brought to the city.
- Inventor of the Twinkie: The Twinkie was invented in Chicago in 1930 by James Dewar, a manager at the Continental Baking Company.
- Home to the first blood bank: Dr. Bernard Fantus established the first blood bank in the United States at Cook County Hospital in Chicago in 1937.
- The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in America: Established in 1868, it’s also one of the few free admission zoos in the United States.
- The ‘L’ train: Chicago’s elevated train system, known as the ‘L’, has been operating since 1892 and is an iconic part of the city’s transportation system.
- Host of the first Special Olympics: The first Special Olympics took place at Soldier Field in Chicago in 1968.
Essential Considerations Before Traveling
- Expect unpredictable weather: March in Chicago can be quite variable, with temperatures ranging from cold to moderately warm. It’s common to experience a mix of snow, rain, and sunny days, so pack layers and be prepared for anything.
- St. Patrick’s Day celebrations: Chicago takes St. Patrick’s Day seriously, with numerous events including the famous dyeing of the Chicago River green, parades, and pub crawls. It’s a festive time to visit, but also busier, especially in areas celebrating the event.
- Consider indoor attractions: Given the chilly weather, March is a great time to explore Chicago’s indoor attractions. The Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Field Museum are excellent places to spend colder days.
- Winter sports opportunities: Depending on the weather, you might still find winter sports activities available, such as ice skating at Millennium Park or Maggie Daley Park.
- Spring blooms at the Garfield Park Conservatory: By late March, you might catch the early signs of spring at indoor gardens like the Garfield Park Conservatory, which is a warm and lush escape from the chilly outdoors.
- Chicago Theatre Week: Typically held in February, some years it extends into early March, offering discounted tickets to more than 100 productions across the city.
- Hotel deals: March can be a great time to find hotel deals in Chicago, as it’s between the high seasons of winter holidays and summer vacations.
- Prepare for wind: Chicago’s nickname “The Windy City” holds true in March, with brisk winds, especially near the lakefront. A windproof jacket is a good idea.
- Use public transportation: The ‘L’ train and buses are efficient ways to get around and avoid the hassle of parking and driving in unpredictable weather.
Conclusion Visiting Chicago in March
Visiting Chicago in March offers a unique blend of winter’s end and the onset of spring, with activities and sights that cater to this seasonal shift. Whether you’re captivated by the green-dyed Chicago River, exploring the city’s renowned museums, or indulging in its culinary delights, March in Chicago is filled with surprises waiting to be discovered. The weather may be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, it adds to the adventure of exploring this vibrant city. Chicago in March is truly a testament to the city’s resilience and capacity to offer warmth and excitement even in the chillier months. Pack your layers, bring your sense of adventure, and immerse yourself in the unique charm of Chicago during this transitional season.
