Things To Do In Chicago At Night For Free

Chicago is the third most populous city in the US and a major hub for business, culture, and entertainment. With so much to see and do, it can be difficult to decide what to do if you’re visiting for the first time. Fortunately, there are plenty of free things to do in Chicago at night. From street festivals to outdoor movies, music events to art galleries, there are plenty of ways to take in the city without spending a dime.

Introduction

Chicago is located along Lake Michigan on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan. It is the third largest city in the nation by population and has the second largest metropolitan area in the US. It is known as the “Windy City” due to its strong winds off of Lake Michigan, though locals will assure you that this is more of a marketing slogan than an accurate representation of the weather.

Chicago has a rich history stretching back to its founding in 1833. It was a major hub for industry in the 19th century, with the world-famous Union Stock Yards becoming a major source of employment for the city’s immigrants. Today, it is known for its vibrant cultural scene and its diverse neighborhoods, from Chinatown to Little Italy.

Things To Do In Chicago At Night For Free

When it comes to free things to do in Chicago at night, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for music, art, or culture, Chicago has something for everyone. Here are some of the top free activities that you can enjoy in the Windy City.

Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a popular gathering spot in downtown Chicago, offering plenty of free entertainment and activities. During the summer months, there are free concerts and movies in the park, and visitors can also take advantage of the numerous walking trails and sculpture gardens. There’s also a popular light show during the summer months, which is sure to be a hit with both adults and kids alike.

Grant Park Music Festival

The Grant Park Music Festival is one of the top free events in Chicago. It takes place every summer from mid-June to mid-August in downtown Chicago’s Grant Park. The festival features a wide variety of live performances from classical, jazz, opera, and other genres, as well as family-friendly activities and food vendors.

Chicago Jazz Festival

The Chicago Jazz Festival takes place every Labor Day weekend in downtown Chicago’s Millennium Park. This popular event showcases some of the best jazz musicians from around the world. During the festival, visitors can check out free performances from local and international artists, as well as workshops and educational programs.

Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chicago. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy free activities such as fireworks displays and outdoor movies, as well as unique shops and restaurants. There’s also a variety of live music performances throughout the year, ranging from rock and roll to classical music.

Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Center is a hub for art and culture in downtown Chicago. It offers a wide range of free exhibitions and programs throughout the year, including art displays, film screenings, lectures and workshops. Visitors can also take part in free guided tours of the building and its many galleries.

Museum of Contemporary Art

The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago is home to an impressive collection of modern art from around the world. It offers free admission every day from 10am to 8pm, giving visitors plenty of time to explore its extensive galleries. The museum also hosts free events such as live music performances and artist talks throughout the year.

Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in America and it’s also one of the few zoos that are still free to visit. The zoo is home to more than 1,100 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, gorillas, giraffes, and more. It also offers plenty of educational programs for both adults and children.

Free Tours By Foot

Free Tours by Foot is a popular walking tour company that offers free tours throughout Chicago. The company offers a variety of tours covering different neighborhoods and topics such as architecture, history, and culture. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours that range from one hour to two hours in length.

Tours

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

A great way to take in some of Chicago’s most iconic buildings is with a Chicago Architecture River Cruise. This tour takes visitors on a journey down the Chicago River while providing commentary on some of the city’s most famous architectural landmarks such as The Wrigley Building, The Tribune Tower, and The Merchandise Mart. Visitors can also learn about Chicago’s unique architectural history while enjoying amazing views along the way. To book this tour click here.

Lake Michigan Sightseeing Tour

For those looking for an up-close view of one of Chicago’s most famous landmarks, a Lake Michigan Sightseeing Tour is an ideal option. This guided tour takes visitors around Lake Michigan while providing information about its history and ecology. Visitors can also take advantage of stunning views of Chicago’s skyline from the water as they learn more about this incredible body of water. To book this tour click here.

Conclusion

Chicago is an amazing city with plenty of things to do at night for free. From outdoor movies and concerts to art galleries and walking tours, there are plenty of ways to explore this vibrant city without spending a dime. Whether you’re looking for something fun or educational, you’ll be sure to find something that suits your interests in Chicago at night.