22 Free Things to do in Chicago

Chicago is a bustling, energetic city that never stops — no matter the season or wind speed.

Sitting on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, Chicago offers world-class cultural attractions, diverse neighborhoods and architectural wonders.

You might think that seeing all the Windy City has to offer would be expensive…but you’d be wrong.

Chicago has an astounding number of free things to do throughout the year; including many of the city’s best attractions.

Visitors can easily fill several weeks with fascinating fun that doesn’t cost a dime.

1. Navy Pier
   Here you can walk around and enjoy the sites of Navy Pier.

   
   Navy Pier | Photo by cmefish

2. Chicago Cultural Center
   The cultural center offers exhibits and movie screenings throughout the year which are free to the public. Check to find out what is going on when you are visiting.
3. ArchiCenter
   The ArchiCenter highlights different aspects of Chicago’s famous architecture Tuesday – Sunday every week.
4. Museum of Contemporary Photography
   Enjoy a collection of photography Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am – 5pm, Thursday from 10am to 8pm, and Saturday from noon until 5pm.
5. Smith Museum of Stained Glass
   This museum is located on Navy Pier and contains a collection of stained glass artwork.
6. Water Tower
   This infamous building was the only one to survive the Great Chicago Fire. If you are interested in Chicago history this building is a great site to see.
7. Art Institute of Chicago
   If you are interested in art work this is a great option since it is free to visit the institute after 5:30pm on Thursdays.
8. Chicago Childrens Museum
   The first Sunday of every month is free for children under 15 and its free for anyone to visit from 5-8pm on Thursdays.
9. International Museum of Surgical Science
   This museum is free every Tuesday from 10am to 4pm.
10. Millennium Park
    This park features the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Cloud Gate, and Free ice skating in the winter months.

    
    Millennium Park | Photo by carlwwycoff

11. Grant Park
    Here you can catch one of many free festivals throughout the summer months, you may what to check on what is going on while you will be visiting in advance.
12. River Esplanade Park
    Features a river front walk free any time of year.
13. Buckingham Fountain
    This fountain operates from April to October weather permitting.
14. Lincoln Park Zoo
    The zoo is free everyday of the year and is a great place to take kids.
15. Shedd Aquarium
    Throughout the year the Shedd Aquarium offers many discount days. Check in advance to see if their will be one while you are visiting and make sure you get your tickets early since they will sell out.
16. Chicago Botanic Garden
    This free garden is just outside of Chicago in Glencoe.
17. Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park
    A park with many different sculptures just outside of Chicago.
18. National Museum of Mexican Art
    Free everyday for anyone to enter and has art dedicated to Mexican culture.
19. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
    This museum is atop the roofs of many buildings and teaches its visitors about energy efficiency and is free on Thursdays.
20. Jane Addams Hull House
    This house is one of the original settlement houses in the US, at the museum you can see pictures, furniture and assorted art items from the settlements time period.
21. Lincoln Park
    Visit here during the summer when you can enjoy a picknick or hike.
22. North Avenue Beach
    This is a nice beach equipped with plenty of beach volleyball courts. The Chicago Air and Water show takes place here toward the end of August.

    
    North Beach | Photo by ciscel