With longer days, blooming parks, and a calendar full of seasonal events, the city comes alive in a way that feels both refreshing and energizing. While it’s hard to go wrong this time of year, having a few insider tips can make your visit feel more seamless, intentional, and memorable. As locals, we’re here to help you experience Chicago at its best. From spring brunch to navigating the city’s ever-changing weather, consider this your guide to making the most of the season, and why our hotel is the perfect home base for it all.

Chicago’s Blooms

Though a major metropolitan city, Chicago truly shines in the spring with its vibrant floral displays. One of the most beloved seasonal highlights is Millennium Park, where colorful tulips line walkways and signal the start of warmer days. Just nearby, Lurie Garden offers a more curated, immersive experience with thoughtfully designed landscapes that evolve throughout the season.

For a more tropical escape, visit the Lincoln Park Conservatory, a historic glass structure dating back to the 1890s. Inside, you’ll find lush greenery and seasonal floral displays that feel worlds away from the city streets. As a bonus top, Lincoln Park Zoo is nearby and offers a charming (and free) outing, perfect for a relaxed spring afternoon.

Springtime dining

As temperatures rise, Chicago eases into one of its most anticipated seasonal transitions: patio dining. Sidewalk cafés, rooftop terraces, and riverfront restaurants reopen, creating the perfect backdrop to enjoy fresh air alongside the city’s dynamic food scene. State and Lake Chicago Tavern offers beautiful outdoor seating in the heart of the Chicago Theatre District, just steps from the river, making it an ideal place to take in the energy of downtown while enjoying a delicious meal.

Spring also marks the return of one of the season’s most beloved rituals: brunch. At State and Lake, the new Golden Era Brunch menu brings a fresh take on classic favorites, blending bold flavors with elevated comfort. From shareable plates to standout staples, it’s designed to turn a leisurely morning into a memorable experience. For a different perspective, head upstairs to ROOF at theWit, where skyline views and a lively atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for drinks, bites, or a vibrant spring evening.

For those easing into the day, breakfast at theWit offers a bright and inviting start, with dishes that strike the perfect balance between indulgence and freshness, fueling a full day of exploring.

Must-see Attractions

Spring is when Chicago truly shows off. Start with a stroll through Millennium Park, where public art and open green space come together in the heart of downtown. Just steps away, the Art Institute of Chicago offers a perfect indoor complement, ideal for when spring weather shifts unexpectedly. 

For a more immersive look at the city, consider an architecture boat tour along the Chicago River, especially with the Chicago Architecture Foundation, known for its expert-led cruises that bring the skyline to life. You can also explore the Chicago Riverwalk, where cafés, river views, and walkable paths make it easy to spend an afternoon outdoors.

No visit is complete without time at Navy Pier, where you can take in skyline views from the Centennial Wheel or simply enjoy the renewed lakefront energy. Spring is also the perfect time to catch a baseball game. Whether it’s the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field or the Chicago White Sox on the South Side, it’s a true local experience.

Insider Tips 

Spring in Chicago is all about balance between sunshine and sudden chills, busy hotspots and quieter neighborhood moments. Dressing in layers is essential, as temperatures can shift throughout the day. A light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a flexible mindset will take you far as you move through the city.

Getting around is just as important as where you go. The city trains make it easy to navigate like a local, but don’t underestimate the value of walking, especially in the spring, when the city feels more alive. Early mornings and weekday afternoons are ideal for visiting popular attractions with fewer crowds, giving you more space to take it all in.

Most importantly, be sure to leave room for spontaneity. Some of the best spring experiences in Chicago come from unplanned moments like stumbling upon a pop-up event, discovering a new café, or simply following the energy of a neighborhood.

Why Our Hotel Is the Best Home Base

When you’re exploring a city as dynamic as Chicago, where you dine matters just as much as where you stay. Nestled inside theWit, State and Lake Chicago Tavern offers the perfect place to pause, recharge, and savor the best of downtown. Just steps from iconic attractions, vibrant neighborhoods, and the lakefront, it’s a central gathering spot that makes it easy to move seamlessly from one part of your day to the next without missing a moment.

Beyond location, the experience continues inside. Indulge in a moment of relaxation at Spa@theWit, where thoughtful treatments offer the perfect reset between outings. Then, transition seamlessly into your evening, whether that’s dinner at State and Lake or cocktails above the city at ROOF.

Whether you’re fueling up before a day in the city, winding down after sightseeing, or settling in for a memorable dinner, the restaurant blends warm hospitality, elevated comfort, and an unmistakably Chicago energy. From casual moments to special occasions, it’s the kind of place that turns a great day into an even better one. Reserve your table today.