The Ultimate Guide to Free Activities in Chicago

Chicago is an incredibly diverse city with a rich history and culture. It is the largest city in the Midwest and the third most populous city in the United States. On the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a bustling metropolis of bustling neighborhoods, world-class museums, and delicious restaurants. It’s a great place to visit and explore, and if you’re on a budget, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy in the city.

A Brief History of Chicago

The area around modern-day Chicago has been inhabited for over 12,000 years, but the city itself was founded in 1837. It was initially a small trading post on the edge of a swamp called Fort Dearborn, which was eventually incorporated as a town. In 1848, the town of Chicago was officially chartered as a city and it quickly grew into an important center of trade, industry, and transportation.

Today, Chicago is known for its unique architecture, vibrant culture, and professional sports teams. The city is also home to the University of Chicago and several famous museums, like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Things to Do in Chicago

If you’re looking for free activities in Chicago, you’ll have plenty to choose from. Here are some of the best things to do in the city without spending a dime:

Explore the Parks and Beaches

Chicago has a wealth of beautiful parks and beaches that are perfect for exploring on a sunny day. The city is home to numerous beaches along Lake Michigan, such as North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, and Montrose Beach. In addition to the beaches, there are plenty of parks to explore such as Millennium Park, Grant Park, and Lincoln Park. These parks offer a variety of activities ranging from biking and running trails to concerts and festivals.

Walk along the Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is a stretch of Michigan Avenue that is filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions. It’s one of the most iconic streets in the city and it’s perfect for strolling and people watching. You can window shop along the street or take in some of the stunning architecture while you stroll.

Take a Free Tour

There are several free tours available in Chicago that will give you an in-depth look at the city’s history and culture. The most popular tour is the Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise that takes you on a 90-minute tour along the Chicago River. The tour is narrated by an expert guide who will explain the history behind some of Chicago’s most famous buildings. You can also take a free walking tour offered by Go Chicago or a free bike tour offered by Bike and Roll Chicago.

Visit the Museums

Chicago is home to some of the best museums in the world and many of them offer free admission on certain days or at certain times. The Art Institute of Chicago offers free admission every Thursday evening from 5-8pm. The Museum of Contemporary Art offers free admission every Tuesday evening from 6-9pm. And if you’re looking for something more science-oriented, The Museum of Science and Industry offers free admission every Thursday from 5-9pm.

Explore The Neighborhoods

Chicago has 77 distinct neighborhoods with their own unique cultures and attractions. From Chinatown to Little Italy, there’s something for everyone in this diverse city. You can stroll down main streets, explore hidden alleyways, or just people watch while you enjoy a cup of coffee in one of the many cafes. The city is full of surprises and exploring its various neighborhoods is one of the best ways to get to know it up close.

Popular Tours

For those who want an even more immersive experience, there are several popular tours available in Chicago. Here are two popular tours to consider if you’re looking for something special:

Chicago Food Planet Food Tour

The Chicago Food Planet Food Tour is a 3-hour culinary adventure through some of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods. You’ll visit local restaurants, markets, and bakeries to sample some of the best food in town. The tour includes 15+ food tastings from authentic pizza and hot dogs to more exotic cuisine like deep-dish lasagna and boozy milkshakes. This is a great way to explore the city’s diverse food scene while learning about its history and culture from your knowledgeable guide. Book this tour if you want an unforgettable culinary experience.

Chicago Segway Tour

If you’d rather explore Chicago on two wheels, then consider taking a Segway tour. This 2-hour tour takes you through some of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods such as the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park. You’ll learn about the city’s history from your knowledgeable guide while zipping through its streets on your Segway. This is one of the most fun and unique ways to explore Chicago and it’s definitely worth considering if you want an unforgettable experience. Book this tour if you’re looking for an adventure on two wheels!

Conclusion

Chicago is an incredible city with plenty of free activities to enjoy no matter what your interests are. Whether you’re exploring the parks or window shopping along Michigan Avenue, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. And if you want an even more immersive experience, there are plenty of popular tours available that will give you an up-close look at what makes this city special. So why not plan your visit today? You won’t regret it!