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Chicago & The Great Lakes

From Chicago’s iconic soaring skyline to the remote beauty of the Great Lakes, get off the tourist trail and explore an American wilderness that remains relatively undiscovered by tourism. Holidays to the Great Lakes take you through this network of five immense freshwater lakes that are interconnected by a series of rivers and smaller lakes, surrounded by verdant farmland and expansive forests. On your Great Lakes fly drive discover the traditions and philosophy of the area’s Native American tribes who have revered the remote beauty of the lakes for many generations. Visit the largest freshwater sand dunes in the world, cross into Canada and visit the mighty sight of a world wonder Niagara Falls. On your holiday to Chicago, soak in the views from atop the Willis Tower, ride the ferris wheel on Navy Pier and find a dark and cosy blues bar to escape the legendary elements of the Windy City.

 

What you’ll love most about the Great Lakes

  • Explore the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, a group of 22 islands with beautiful sandstone formations, sea caves, and lighthouses
  • Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan and hike through the sand dunes, swim in Lake Michigan, or go kayaking on the Crystal River
  • Explore the vibrant city of Chicago, located on the shore of Lake Michigan, and visit the Navy Pier, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Millennium Park
  • Visit Mackinac Island in Michigan and explore the charming Victorian-era architecture, historic forts, and beautiful gardens
  • Go hiking in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Michigan, known for its rugged peaks, old-growth forests, and stunning waterfalls
  • Go on a scenic drive on the Great Lakes Circle Tour, a 6,500-mile route that takes you through eight states and two Canadian provinces, and offers stunning views of the lakes and surrounding landscapes

Where to Book

  • Cove Island Lighthouse on the Bruce Peninsula of Georgian Bay in Lake Heron

  • Chicago skyline and Navy Pier - Illinois Office of Tourism

  • Presque Isle Park, Marquette, Michigan - Brand USA

  • Lady hiking Grand Marais Honeymoon Bluff - Explore Minnesota/Roy Son

  • Chicago beach - Illinois Office of Tourism

  • Splitrock Lighthouse, Lake Superior North Shore - Explore Minnesota

  • Shoreline sightseeing firework cruise - Illinois Office of Tourism

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • -1℃
  • 1℃
  • 8℃
  • 15℃
  • 21℃
  • 27℃
  • 29℃
  • 28℃
  • 24℃
  • 17℃
  • 9℃
  • 2℃
  • 8
  • 7
  • 13
  • 12
  • 17
  • 12
  • 12
  • 13
  • 10
  • 13
  • 14
  • 9

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January in the Great Lakes is cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Snowfall is common, making it an ideal time for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing in places like Michigan’s Upper Peninsula or Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands. Cosy up by the fire in lakeside cabins or explore the winter beauty of Lake Superior’s icy shores.

February

As February rolls in, the winter chill continues, but so do the winter activities. The lakes are usually frozen, opening up opportunities for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. In places like Michigan and Minnesota, ice festivals showcase stunning sculptures and winter-themed events.

March

March begins to show signs of spring, but the weather can still be unpredictable. It’s a great time for winter sports lovers to enjoy the last of the snow before transitioning to early spring. Places like Chicago start to see early signs of the St. Patrick’s Day festivities, with the city’s river turning green and parades in full swing.

April

By April, spring has arrived, bringing mild temperatures that encourage outdoor exploration. Average temperatures range greatly from 5°C to 15°C. The lakes begin to thaw, and spring festivals such as the Milwaukee Film Festival or the Cleveland International Film Festival bring a cultural buzz to the region.

May

May sees temperatures warming to around the low 20°Cs, and the Great Lakes come to life with outdoor activities. This is an excellent time for hiking, biking, and birdwatching, especially in Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore or Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Festivals celebrating local foods and crafts also kick off in various cities.

June

June brings summer temperatures to the region, averaging 20°C to 27°C. It’s an ideal time to explore the lakes themselves, with boat tours, sailing trips, and watersports becoming popular. Chicago’s Millennium Park hosts free outdoor concerts, while the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Erie offer stunning beaches for relaxation.

July

July is the heart of summer in the Great Lakes, with temperatures reaching 25°C to 30°C, making it a fantastic time for boating, swimming, and lakeside picnics. Cities like Detroit and Milwaukee host vibrant festivals, including the famous Summerfest, while the lakeside towns of Ohio and Michigan offer picturesque views and outdoor adventures.

August

August continues the summer heat, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures around 25°C to 30°C. This is the time to explore the charming lakeside communities of places like Door County, Wisconsin, and Michigan’s Mackinac Island. The Great Lakes also offer prime fishing opportunities during this month, with many anglers flocking to the waters.

September

September marks the arrival of cooler temperatures, ranging from 18°C to 24°C. Fall foliage begins to paint the landscape in vibrant hues, making it a beautiful month for road trips along the lakes. The Lake Michigan shoreline offers stunning views of the changing leaves, and many local harvest festivals celebrate the season’s bounty.

October

October is prime time for autumn in the Great Lakes region. Temperatures drop further, with daytime averages around 10°C to 15°C. The fall foliage peaks in areas like the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and the forests of Wisconsin. Oktoberfest celebrations, cider mills, and harvest festivals make it a festive time to visit.

November

In November, the region begins to feel the chill of winter again. With temperatures averaging 0°C to 10°C, it’s an off-season time to visit. While outdoor activities are winding down, it’s a great month to explore indoor attractions like museums, art galleries, and historical sites in cities like Chicago, Cleveland, and Detroit.

December

December brings the holiday season to the Great Lakes, with temperatures typically ranging from -5°C to 5°C. The region is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and ice skating, holiday markets, and light displays in cities like Chicago and Detroit are a major draw. The winter months offer a serene atmosphere for exploring the lakes and enjoying winter sports.

Our Ratings

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  • Not Recommended

Where to book


American Sky offers luxury tailor-made tours and holidays specialising in providing expert travel advice and exceptional unhurried customer service. With a wealth of experience we will find the perfect trip for you.

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Discover North America, doesn’t do ‘one size fits all’ holiday packages. Their experienced travel specialists take great pride in curating individually tailored itineraries designed to your interests, time, and budget. So, sit back, relax, and let them help you discover North America.

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At Freedom Destinations, we take the trouble out of travel. We offer everything you need in one place; a great range of hotels, tours and activities, coupled with first-class service from dedicated specialists who work with you to create your perfect itinerary. With FREEDOM you can….

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With over 40 years of making travel simple. Travelbag are ATOL protected so you are covered. Book with confidence. Find great prices on tailor made luxury holidays, flights, hotels and tours worldwide! Secure payments. Expert advice. UK based shops. Worldwide destinations.

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