Fun Things To Do In Chicago For Free

Chicago is a sprawling city with a rich cultural history and a variety of activities and attractions that visitors can enjoy for free. From its iconic architecture to its diverse neighborhoods, Chicago has something to offer everyone no matter their budget. Whether you’re looking for a day of sightseeing or an evening of entertainment, there are plenty of fun things to do in Chicago that won’t cost you a dime.

Explore the Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is one of Chicago’s most popular tourist attractions, and it’s not hard to see why. This vibrant stretch of North Michigan Avenue is lined with iconic buildings, high-end stores, and unique restaurants. Taking a stroll through the Magnificent Mile is a great way to take in all that Chicago has to offer. Along the way, you can admire the iconic architecture, window shop at the luxurious stores, and enjoy the views of Lake Michigan.

Discover Chicago’s Public Art

Chicago is home to an impressive array of public art, ranging from sculptures and murals to installations and performance art. You can explore all of these pieces as you wander around the city. Visit Chicago’s official website to find a list of all the public art in the city and plan a route for yourself. Who knows, you might even stumble upon some hidden gems!

Visit the Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Center is one of Chicago’s most popular tourist attractions, and it’s completely free to visit. This iconic building is home to various art galleries, exhibitions, and performances, and it also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. The building itself is an impressive sight, with its grand marble staircase and stained glass dome. Spend a few hours exploring the building and admiring the art and performances.

Take a Self-Guided Architecture Tour

Chicago is known for its impressive architecture, with iconic buildings like the Willis Tower and the Tribune Tower. You can explore the city’s architectural gems on your own with a self-guided architecture tour. Download The Chicago Architecture Foundation’s free audio tour and listen to the stories behind the city’s signature buildings as you explore them.

Explore Chicago’s Parks

Chicago is home to some of the country’s most beautiful parks and green spaces. From the sprawling Millennium Park to the picturesque Lincoln Park, there’s a park for everyone in Chicago. Spend an afternoon soaking up the sun in one of Chicago’s parks or take a stroll down the lakefront path. There’s no better way to enjoy the city’s beauty than by exploring its public parks.

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the city’s most beloved attractions, and luckily, admission is free for Illinois residents! Spend a day exploring the world-renowned art museum and admiring the works of some of the world’s greatest artists. From classic masterpieces to modern art installations, there’s something for everyone at the Art Institute of Chicago.

Explore the Neighborhoods

Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and vibe. Spend a day exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods and discovering their unique cultures and attractions. From the vibrant Mexican-American enclave of Pilsen to the bustling Loop, there’s something new to explore around every corner.

Visit the Free Days at Museums

Many of Chicago’s museums offer free admission on certain days of the week. Take advantage of these free days to explore the city’s incredible museums, from the Field Museum of Natural History to the Museum of Science and Industry. Check the Choose Chicago website for a list of all the museums offering free admission.

Enjoy Free Music and Entertainment

Chicago is known for its vibrant music and entertainment scene and luckily, there are plenty of free ways to enjoy it. There are free concerts and events happening all over the city throughout the year, from open mic nights to live jazz bands. Check the Time Out website for a list of all the free music and entertainment events happening in the city.

Conclusion

Chicago is an amazing city with a wealth of activities and attractions to explore, many of which are free. Whether you’re looking for a day of sightseeing or an evening of entertainment, there are plenty of fun things to do in Chicago that won’t cost you a dime. From exploring the magnificent mile to discovering public art and visiting free museums, there’s something for everyone in Chicago. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the city!