What To Wear In Wisconsin In Spring (April + May)

Want to know what to wear in Wisconsin in spring? Whether you’re visiting family, heading to the legendary Lambeau Field and Titletown, or checking off your 50 states bucket list, here’s exactly what to wear in Wisconsin in April and May from a local (me)!

What To Wear In Wisconsin In Spring

As a born-and-raised Wisconsinite, I know first-hand that Wisconsin weather can be tricky to prepare for. Sometimes, it’s 70 degrees in December. Sometimes, you face a snowstorm in April. So, always check the forecast before your trip. But, in general, here’s what you should wear in Wisconsin in springtime.

Long Pants

Spring in Wisconsin is usually chilly with temperatures around 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit, maybe pushing 70 degrees if we’re lucky. Long pants — or, at the very least, capri length pants — are going to be essential to your comfort temperature-wise. Locals are extremely casual, so jeans, leggings or even sweatpants are suitable in public places. The exception, of course, is if you’ll be in Wisconsin on business. In that case, business casual attire would be expected.

T-Shirts

If you’re coming from cool weather, you can break out your T-shirts in Wisconsin around April or May. Obviously, if you’re coming from hotter climates, such as the southern USA, you’ll probably want to opt for long sleeves. Although, you may see Wisconsinites in short-sleeves (and maybe even shorts), as we’re pretty excited to be above freezing temperatures this time of year.

Layers (Sweaters/Sweatshirts)

Regardless, you will want layers, such as sweatshirts and sweaters, to wear over your T-shirts to keep you warm in the mornings, evenings, windy days and rainy days. The saying “April showers bring May flowers” rings true here in Wisconsin, so it is possible you’ll get rained on during your time here. Windy days are also common, especially in the spring and fall seasons. Again, locals are casual, so hoodies will fit right in. If you really want to fit in with the locals, though, wear a plaid flannel. (Local tip: wear your flannel over a graphic T-shirt or hoodie for added Midwestern effect.)

Lightweight Jacket

Similarly, a lightweight jacket or winter coat may be good to pack, just in case. Like I said, rogue April snowstorms are not uncommon in Wisconsin, so it is best to check the forecast and be prepared. For snowy weather or temperatures below 30 degrees Fahrenheit, I suggest a long winter parka or wool trench coat. I always buy my long winter coats at TJ Maxx at a discounted price. For temperatures between 35-60 degrees, I love my Columbia packable down jacket. For rainy temperatures above 60 degrees, I would wear my favorite Charly jacket from Eddie Bauer.

Closed-Toed Shoes Or Sandals

In Wisconsin in spring, you can usually get by with your choice of closed-toed shoes or sandals. Obviously, you’ll want close-toed shoes or boots if it’s snowing. But, otherwise, the choice is up to you. On a sunny spring day, you’re almost guaranteed to see different locals wearing warm fur UGG boots and Birkenstock sandals on the same day. I’ve personally been loving these Amazon faux UGG dupes and these Birkenstock sandals lately.

Shorts (If You’re Lucky)

If you’re lucky, you might score a hot day in the 70s or 80s here in Wisconsin in spring, especially toward the end of May. In this case, shorts are definitely a valid option for bottoms. Wisconsin is very humid during the summer months, so an 80-degree day here feels more like a sticky 85-90 degree day. Denim shorts, linen shorts, khaki shorts and sweat shorts alike are all popular throughout Wisconsin.

Now you know exactly what to wear in Wisconsin in spring (particularly April and May) from a born-and-raised Wisconsinite! If you’re visiting Green Bay for a Lambeau tour, sports game or the NFL Draft, you may want to check out this guide on what to wear in Lambeau Field next.

More Wisconsin Travel Guides

What To Wear To Lambeau Field On Game Day
10 Things To Do On Washington Island All Year Round
Pfister Hotel: Everything You Need To Know
Wisconsin Instagram Captions You Need To Steal

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