What to pack for a trip to Chicago?

[seven7devils]

I'm going to Chicago for four days at the end of March and I feel like I have no idea what to pack. I see that the weather is supposed to be in the 50's, but in Denver where I live highs in the 50's is probably a lot warmer feeling.

Suggestions?

[bimbi284]

Definitely a rain jacket and layers.
What sorts of activities will you be doing?

[treedimensional]

Like Bimbi said, it depends what you're doing. I mostly travel for work, and most of my time on business trips is spent entirly indoors, so I always pack work attire and weather outside never comes into play.

[seven7devils]

We will mostly be sightseeing and eating in restaurants. Our focus is on culture and food. Nothing sporty or too outdoorsy.

[scout8]

I wouldn't trust the weather forecast this far out. They can barely get it right two days out in Chicago. I would see what it says a couple of days before you leave and then make sure to pack lot of layers.

[woowoo]

I would anticipate pretty chilly weather. You'll want waterproof shoes for sure - I wear a lot of flat ankle boots when I'm out and about during the day here, and generally wear my booties for evenings out. I would just plan on layering during the day. While the phrase "windy city" doesn't actually have anything to do with our weather, it's still pretty accurate, especially in the winter/springtime.

Evening attire will range depending on what restaurants you go to, generally the closer you are to city center/tourist area the dressier people will be. I'm in a neighborhood a couple miles of downtown and while I'll wear sundresses out in the summer I'm generally in dressy jeans and a blouse or nice sweater in the evenings.

[mrsguz]

I went in June last year and it was 50s and misty rain. So ditto others, layer up. I love Chicsgo. Such a great city. Have fun!