Hey Reader,

A couple weeks ago I visited Chicago for the first time... over St Paddys!

Spending St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago has always been on my bucket list, and it completely delivered. The energy, the traditions, the green river… it’s one of those experiences I truly think everyone should do at least once.

That said… I also learned a few things the hard way 😅

🍀 The Weekend Recap

We flew in late Thursday night and hit the ground running Friday morning.

Friday was our “see the city” day:​
• Toured Wrigley Field (so fun even if you’re not a huge baseball fan)
• Did the Chicago architecture river cruise (this was a highlight—SO worth it)
• Walked around Millennium Park and saw The Bean

Saturday = full St. Patrick’s Day mode:​
• Watched the Chicago River get dyed bright green (it really is as cool as it looks)
• Did a bar crawl with our group of friends
• Tried classic Chicago deep dish pizza

Sunday slowed down a bit:​
• Brunch in Lincoln Park
• Walked around the Lincoln Park Zoo (and yes, it’s free!)

🧊 What I Didn’t Expect…

It was freezing.

Like… snowing, multiple layers, questioning all life choices kind of cold.

I’ve seen photos of people celebrating in sunshine and light jackets in past years, so just know—it can go either way. Chicago in March is unpredictable.

✨ My Honest Take

Do St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago once.​
It’s such a fun, high-energy, bucket list experience.

But for a “normal” trip? Go in the summer.​
You’ll actually get to enjoy the city without freezing, and Chicago really shines when the weather is nice.

💳 How We Travel Hacked This Trip

This was one of those trips that felt expensive but really wasn’t:

• Used the Alaska Airlines companion fare for flights
• Used my Amex bi-annual hotel credit for our stay

Little things like this make trips like this way more doable—especially when you’re traveling with friends.

✈️ Tips If You’re Planning This Trip

Check the weather (and overpack layers)​
It can be sunny or snowing—you won’t know until the week of

Use public transportation​
It’s super easy, affordable, and way better than dealing with traffic

Book a bar crawl + start early​
It gets very busy and crowded as the day goes on

Plan your big activities ahead of time​
The architecture cruise and tours book up quickly

I’m already working on full blog posts with all my exact recommendations (restaurants, tours, where we stayed, etc.), so stay tuned for those.

And if Chicago for St. Patrick’s Day is on your list… this is your sign to do it.

Have a great week,

Lauren The Traveling Moore Blog

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