Fun Cheap Things To Do In Chicago

Chicago is one of America’s most vibrant cities, with an array of attractions to explore, from iconic landmarks to unique cultural offerings. From its dynamic skyline to its diverse neighborhoods, Chicago is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, there are plenty of fun and inexpensive ways to explore the city. Here’s our guide to some of the best cheap things to do in Chicago.

The Windy City

Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States, after New York City and Los Angeles. Located on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, Chicago has a population of approximately 2.7 million people and is known as the “Windy City” because of the strong gusts of wind that come off the lake. The city is known for its iconic architecture, including skyscrapers such as the Willis Tower, the second-tallest building in the United States, and the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower.

The city is also home to world-class museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago and Shedd Aquarium, as well as popular attractions like Navy Pier and Millennium Park. Chicago is a major cultural and financial center, and it is home to some of the most famous chefs in the world. The city has a thriving theater district, as well as a thriving music and comedy scene.

The Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is one of Chicago’s most famous attractions. This stretch of North Michigan Avenue is home to some of the city’s highest-end shopping and dining experiences, as well as several iconic landmarks. The John Hancock Center, one of the tallest buildings in the United States, towers over the area, providing visitors with stunning views of the city. Other attractions along The Magnificent Mile include the Tribune Tower, Water Tower Place, and Pioneer Court.

The Magnificent Mile is also home to some of Chicago’s best restaurants. Whether you’re looking for an upscale dining experience or a quick bite to eat, there are plenty of options for all budgets. In addition to restaurants, The Magnificent Mile also features a variety of entertainment venues, from comedy clubs to movie theaters.

Explore Chicago’s Neighborhoods

Chicago is made up of 77 distinct neighborhoods, each offering its own unique flavor and culture. For example, Wicker Park is known for its hipster vibe and trendy restaurants; while Chinatown offers a vibrant mix of Asian culture and cuisine. Exploring these neighborhoods is one of the best ways to experience Chicago’s diverse culture and get an authentic taste of the city.

The best way to explore the city’s neighborhoods is by foot or by bike. Chicago has an extensive public transportation system that makes it easy to get around by bus or train. You can also rent a bike from Divvy, the city’s bike sharing program, for an inexpensive way to explore the city.

Take in a Show

Chicago is known for its vibrant theater scene and there are plenty of shows playing every night in the city’s various theaters. From big-name musicals to off-Broadway shows, there’s something for everyone. There are also several affordable comedy clubs throughout the city where you can catch local stand-up acts for a fraction of the price.

Visit Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of Chicago’s most popular attractions, and it’s free to visit every day of the year. The zoo is home to over 200 species of animals and offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with some of nature’s most majestic creatures. From giraffes to elephants, there are plenty of animals to discover at Lincoln Park Zoo.

Experience Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks, located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. The pier offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, including carnival rides, an IMAX theater, and a Ferris wheel with views of the skyline. Navy Pier also features several restaurants, bars and shops where visitors can grab a bite to eat or do some shopping.

Sample Local Cuisine

Chicago is home to some of the best restaurants in the country, from fine-dining establishments to more casual eateries. Sample Chicago’s famous deep dish pizza or try out some other local favorites such as Italian beef sandwiches or hot dogs with all the fixings. There are plenty of hole-in-the-wall restaurants where you can sample delicious dishes on a budget.

Visit Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s most popular attractions and it’s free to visit. The park features iconic landmarks such as Cloud Gate (better known as “The Bean”), an outdoor music pavilion, and an outdoor ice-skating rink in the winter months. The park also hosts free events throughout the year such as outdoor concerts and movies in the summer months.

Explore Chicago on an Architecture Tour

Chicago is known for its iconic architecture and there are several tours that offer visitors a chance to explore this side of the city. On an architecture tour, you can learn about Chicago’s history through its buildings and gain insight into how its unique architecture has shaped the city over time. There are several companies offering architecture tours throughout Chicago that provide visitors with an up-close look at some of the city’s most iconic buildings. Book an architecture tour here for an immersive experience that will give you a deeper understanding of this great American city.

Take a Food Tour

Chicago is home to some of the best food in America, from deep dish pizza to hot dogs with all the fixings. Explore this culinary side of Chicago on a food tour that takes you around some of the city’s best restaurants and food vendors. On a food tour, you will get an up-close look at Chicago’s culinary landscape while sampling some delicious dishes along the way. Book a food tour here for an unforgettable experience that will give you a true taste of Chicago’s famous culinary scene.

Go on a Beer Tour

Chicago has a thriving craft beer scene and there are plenty of breweries offering tours throughout the city. On a beer tour, you will get an up-close look at how beer is made while sampling some delicious brews along the way. Most beer tours include tastings at several different breweries, giving you an opportunity to sample a variety of different beers while learning about their history and production process. Book a beer tour here for an immersive experience that will give you an appreciation for this beloved beverage.

The Bottom Line

Chicago is one of America’s greatest cities, with something for everyone to explore and discover. From iconic landmarks to unique cultural experiences, there are plenty of fun and inexpensive things to do throughout the city that won’t break your budget. Whether you’re looking for an architecture tour or a food tour, there are plenty of ways to experience this great American city without spending too much money. So grab your bag and head out into this great city – you won’t be disappointed!