bakerstreet

Daughter is clamoring for a one-day trip to Chicago at the end of October -- she's pre-teen and will take a friend. She wants to go to the Lincoln Park Zoo and Millenium Park (and the new American Girl Doll Store). We won't have a hotel room or change of clothes since it's a one-day trip (flying in). I realizing weather can vary, but in general, do you Chicago experts think temperatures during that time would make for pleasant visits to the zoo and park, or is it really starting to get cold at that point?

CAPH52

Unfortunately, bakerstreet, I'd say that's impossible to answer at this point. As you said, weather varies. We could be in the midst of an Indian summer then, with temps well into the 70s. And then again, there are years when trick or treaters need coats. More than likely, it'll be somewhere in between those two extremes....

Gina817

Agreed, we are having an unseasonably cool summer right now. It is so unpredictable. Like CAPH said, we have had very cold and very warm Halloweens. I wouldn't allow weather to keep you from visiting though. Lots of tourists even brave MI Ave in December and have a wonderful time.

travelbuff

I lived in Chicago for several years and I agree you just never know and the weather this year in particular has been well,,,,,,,,just plain WEIRD.

Go ahead with your plans, check www.weather.com before you leave home and dress for the weather. If it's colder than you planned, pick up something in Chicago to add another layer, and you have a nice memory to bring home.

3Zero

I would add that the weather in Chicago frequently remains mild for the first two weeks of October. I agree that things become a bit more dicey toward the end of the month. Last year, Halloween was exceptionally mild & very pleasant. But this is the exception rather than the rule. If the weather is a major concern, I would suggest moving your trip up a couple of weeks (sooner).