Chicago
WinterOff season ~33°F highs
Things to do in Chicago in December
December is off season (quieter, and often cheaper) to visit Chicago, with average highs around 33°F. Museums and indoor sights come into their own, with fewer crowds outside.
Best picks for December
What's famous here, weighted toward what shines in December.
Holidays in December 2026
- Christmas Day · Fri, Dec 25
Expect busier roads and pricier stays around these dates. See long weekends.
What’s on in Chicago in December
Concerts, games and shows in the next few weeks. Tickets open on Ticketmaster.
Chicago in December: quick answers
Is December a good time to visit Chicago?
December is off season (quieter, and often cheaper) to visit Chicago, with average highs around 33°F. Museums and indoor sights come into their own, with fewer crowds outside.
What is the weather like in Chicago in December?
Average daytime highs are around 33°F, compared with 83°F in the warmest month. Check the forecast a week out; our planner favors indoor stops on rainy days.
What are the best things to do in Chicago in December?
Top picks for December: The Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum, Chess Studio, Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures Museum.
