Free Things To Do In Chicago Suburbs This Weekend

Chicago, the second-largest city in the United States, is a bustling metropolis located on the shores of Lake Michigan in the heart of the Midwest. The city has a long and rich history, with its earliest inhabitants being Native American tribes who lived in the area for centuries before the arrival of Europeans. Today, Chicago is home to an estimated 2.7 million people from all walks of life and is widely known for its vibrant culture, diverse architecture, and exciting nightlife.

A trip to Chicago can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and there are plenty of free attractions and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a return visitor, there’s always something new to explore in the city’s many neighborhoods and suburbs. Here’s our guide to some of the best free things to do in Chicago suburbs this weekend.

Explore Chicago’s Historic Architecture

One of the best ways to experience Chicago is to simply walk around and explore its many historic architectural landmarks. From skyscrapers and iconic buildings to hidden gems tucked away in alleyways and courtyards, the city is overflowing with unique structures that are sure to capture your imagination. To make the most of your architectural exploration, we recommend visiting the Chicago Architecture Center for free tours and workshops, as well as the city’s many free guided walking tours.

For an even more immersive experience, consider taking a ride on one of the city’s many water taxis or river cruises. These cruise lines will take you along the iconic Chicago River and through some of the city’s most iconic architectural landmarks, including Navy Pier, Willis Tower, and the John Hancock Center. From here, you can marvel at the city’s breathtaking skyline from the comfort of your seat.

Enjoy Nature in the Suburbs

Chicago is home to many sprawling green spaces and suburban nature preserves that are perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. For a unique outdoor experience, take a stroll through one of the area’s many forest preserves, such as Deer Grove Forest Preserve in Palatine or Busse Woods in Elk Grove Village. If you’re looking for something a little more active, try a hike at one of Illinois’s state parks, such as Moraine Hills State Park in McHenry County or Starved Rock State Park in La Salle County.

If you’d rather stay closer to the city, you can still enjoy nature by visiting some of Chicago’s waterfront parks and beaches. The city is home to beaches such as North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, and Montrose Beach, all of which offer stunning views of Lake Michigan and plenty of room for swimming and sunbathing. For a more serene experience, you can explore one of the many parks near the lakefront such as Burnham Park or Northerly Island Park.

Check Out Local Artist Markets

Chicago is known for its vibrant art scene, so what better way to immerse yourself in it than by visiting some of the city’s many local artist markets? These markets feature unique handmade goods from local artisans selling everything from jewelry and clothing to art prints and crafts. Some popular markets include Randolph Street Market in West Loop, Wicker Park Farmers Market in Wicker Park, and Hyde Park Art Market in Hyde Park.

If you’d rather stay indoors, there are plenty of other art galleries and museums to explore. The city is home to renowned institutions such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago as well as countless smaller galleries featuring artwork from both local and international artists. Be sure to check out these galleries for free during their monthly or quarterly free days or during special events and exhibitions.

Experience Local Culture Through Music

Chicago is known for its vibrant music scene, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience some of the city’s best local bands and musicians. Many venues offer free concerts throughout the year, but if you’re looking for something more intimate, there are plenty of small clubs and bars that host regular live music performances. You can find out about upcoming shows by checking local music publications or searching for live music venues near you.

For a more comprehensive music experience, consider attending one of the city’s many free outdoor music festivals. Some popular festivals include Lollapalooza in Grant Park and Riot Fest in Douglas Park. These events feature a wide range of genres from rock to rap to jazz and are sure to provide an entertaining weekend for everyone involved.

Book an Interactive Tour of The Windy City

If you’re looking for an even more interactive experience while visiting Chicago’s suburbs this weekend, consider booking an interactive tour with Viator! Viator offers tours that take visitors through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as Millennium Park and Willis Tower while providing insight into Chicago’s unique history and culture. Their tours also provide an opportunity to meet local guides who will offer their own personal insights into why they love living in this great city. Book an Interactive Tour to get an insider look at Chicago this weekend!

Take a Day Trip Out to Starved Rock State Park

For a more adventurous experience this weekend, why not take a day trip out to Starved Rock State Park? Located just 90 minutes from downtown Chicago, Starved Rock State Park is one of Illinois’ most popular destinations for outdoor recreation. Here you can explore miles of hiking trails that lead to stunning views of canyons and waterfalls as well as take part in activities such as fishing and boating. You can also take part in guided hikes or horseback rides for a more immersive experience. Book a Day Trip Out to Starved Rock State Park to explore this incredible natural wonderland!

Enjoy Some Relaxing Time at Oak Street Beach

No visit to Chicago is complete without spending some time at one of its many beaches! If you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach this weekend, consider heading over to Oak Street Beach on Lake Michigan’s shoreline. This beach offers stunning views of downtown Chicago’s skyline while still providing plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, volleyball, or simply enjoying a picnic lunch with friends. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards from nearby vendors if you’d like to explore further along the lakefront. Book Time at Oak Street Beach for an unforgettable day by the lake!

No matter what type of experience you’re looking for this weekend in Chicago’s suburbs, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy that will make your stay even more memorable! From exploring historic architecture and taking part in outdoor activities to discovering local art markets and music festivals, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So don’t forget to book one or two of these activities while you’re here—you won’t regret it!