This post is an overview of the February weather in Chicago, including snow and precipitation forecasts, as well as tips on how to dress and things to do.
While the winter has not passed yet, February is a little warmer and sunnier than January.
- Temperatures
- How Much Sun, Rain and Snow
- What to Wear
- Things to Do
- Free Tours by Foot
- Seasonal Outlook
Do not let the winter weather scare you away though, as there is still a lot to enjoy this month in the city, and if you come prepared the cold will not hold you back.
If you're going to be in town beyond the end of the month, make sure to check our post on the Chicago weather in March as well.
HOW COLD IS CHICAGO IN FEBRUARY?
In February, the temperatures reach between 30 °F and 40°F (-1 - 5 °C), with an average high of 35 °F (2 °C).
On the other end, the average low this month is 20 °F (-7°C).
The city continues to warm up throughout this short month though, and by the end of February the temperature has risen to about 9°F (5 °C) from where it started, and an average of 3 days will reach into the 50’s °F (over 10 °C).
Most nights the temperature will fall below freezing.
CHICAGO HOTEL DEALS ON TRIPADVISOR – If you haven’t already booked your accommodations.
HOW MUCH SUN AND RAIN?
The sun shines an average of 6 clear days and about 7 days of rain.
The rest of the month will see cloudy or snowy conditions.
HOW MUCH DOES IT SNOW IN CHICAGO IN FEBRUARY?
While the snowfall is different every year, in February the city sees an average of 9.1 inches (23.1 cm) of snowfall.
Chicago usually will have at least an inch (2.5 cm) of snowfall that will stay on the ground for about 12 days.
SEASONAL OUTLOOK - January to March 2024 Chicago
There is a 78% chance for normal to above normal temperatures with a 72% chance for normal to above normal rainfall.
WHAT TO WEAR IN FEBRUARY?
Chicago in February is cold so you'll want to wear warm winter clothes such as thick jackets, scarves, hats, gloves, and winter boots.
Waterproof gear is a good idea to help keep you warm even in the snow.
We run tours all year round and some of our special Winter tours even utilize indoor options so its always wise to have some layers.
WHAT TO DO IN CHICAGO IN FEBRUARY?
Below are 9 top things to do in February in Chicago.
But, be sure to read our full post on what to do in Chicago in February.
It includes free things to do, night and family-friendly activities and attractions, as well as our definitive post on the best things to do in Chicago.
And if you are planning on visiting many of Chicago's top attractions, then you should consider a tourist discount pass.
These passes could save up to 50% of retail ticket prices to tours, attractions, and restaurants.
- See a professional sporting event.
- Go to a concert.
- Explore with a sightseeing tour.
- See a theatrical production.
- Save money with an attraction discount pass.
- Go ice skating in Downtown Chicago.
- Enjoy delicious food deals during Chicago Restaurant Week.
- Celebrate Valentine's Day.
- Take part in the annual Chicago Pizza Party.
- Explore the C2E2 Chicago Comic-Con.
Be sure to check out all the top things to do in February in our main post.
Fred Pickhardt
Ocean Weather Services
