Things To Do In Chicago Cheap

Chicago is one of the most iconic cities in the United States. From its bustling downtown scene to its expansive lakefront, Chicago is a city of opportunity and entertainment. There is something for everyone in this great city, and it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Here are some of the most exciting things to do in Chicago on a budget.

A Brief History of Chicago

Chicago is located in the state of Illinois, on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan. It is the third most populous city in the United States, behind New York City and Los Angeles. It is home to nearly 3 million people, and the greater metropolitan area is home to more than 9.5 million people.

Chicago was founded in 1833 as a small trading post by a group of settlers from the nearby Potawatomi tribe. The city grew exponentially throughout the 19th century, becoming a major transportation hub and industrial center. During the Great Migration of the early 20th century, Chicago attracted millions of African Americans from the southern United States, who came in search of economic opportunity. Today, Chicago is a global city with a diverse population and vibrant culture.

Explore the Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chicago, and for good reason. This stretch of Michigan Avenue is home to some of the most luxurious shops, restaurants, and hotels in the city. It’s also home to many of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks, including the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, and the John Hancock Center. The Magnificent Mile is a great place to stroll around and people watch, window shop, or even take in a few of the street performers who often perform on the sidewalks.

Take a Free Tour of Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s most iconic parks, located in the heart of downtown. The park is home to some of the city’s most iconic attractions, including the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Cloud Gate (also known as “The Bean”), and Lurie Garden. The park also hosts a variety of free concerts and festivals throughout the year. There are plenty of free tours available for those who want to learn more about the park and its history.

Visit Museum Campus

For those looking for a great cultural experience at an affordable price, Museum Campus is an excellent option. Museum Campus features three world-class museums located on Lake Michigan: the Field Museum of Natural History, the Adler Planetarium, and the Shedd Aquarium. Visitors can explore all three museums for just one admission price, making it a great value for those looking to explore Chicago’s art and science offerings.

Grab a Bite at the Taste of Chicago

The Taste of Chicago is an annual food festival held in Grant Park each summer. The festival features some of Chicago’s best restaurants serving up a variety of dishes from all over the world. Prices are reasonable and visitors can sample food from a variety of vendors without breaking the bank. The Taste of Chicago also features live music, art displays, and other entertainment, making it a great way to experience the city’s vibrant culture.

Explore Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most iconic attractions. The pier is home to a variety of attractions such as an IMAX theater, miniature golf course, carousel, and more. Navy Pier also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year such as the Chicago Blues Festival, Chicago Jazz Festival, and World Music Festival. There are plenty of free activities at Navy Pier as well such as strolling along the pier and taking in views of Lake Michigan or enjoying live music performances.

Take a Free Architecture Tour

Chicago is home to some of the most iconic architecture in the world. From modern skyscrapers to historic buildings, there are plenty of architectural gems to explore throughout the city. Fortunately for visitors on a budget, there are plenty of free architecture tours available in Chicago such as tours from the Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) or from volunteer-run organizations like I Am Not A Tourist (IANT). These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insight into Chicago’s unique architecture and history.

Tour Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of Chicago’s top attractions and one of only two free zoos in the United States. The zoo is home to over 1,100 animals from around the world and features exhibits such as Big Cats, Primates, Apes, Reptiles, and more. The zoo also has several educational programming options such as guided tours and animal talks. Visitors can explore Lincoln Park Zoo for free year-round and can also take advantage of special events such as ZooLights during the winter months.

Take a Tour of Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field is one of America’s oldest baseball stadiums and home to Major League Baseball’s Chicago Cubs. Visitors can take guided tours of the stadium which include access to some of its most iconic areas such as the dugouts, press box, bleachers, and more. Wrigley Field tours are available year-round for just $25 per person for adults or $20 per person for children under 12 years old.

Experience Navy Pier Fireworks

Wednesdays and Saturdays during the summer months are especially exciting at Navy Pier thanks to their weekly fireworks displays which can be seen from all over downtown Chicago. The fireworks last approximately 15 minutes and can be seen from various spots along the lakefront such as Navy Pier or North Avenue Beach. Admission to Navy Pier is free so visitors can enjoy strolling around before or after the fireworks show without spending a dime.

Book a Chicago Gangsters Tour

For those wanting to explore Chicago’s darker side, there are plenty of gangster tours available around town. These tours take visitors through some of Chicago’s notorious gangster locations from the 1920s including speakeasies, bootleg warehouses, and other former hideouts. Prices vary depending on tour length and type but generally start around $25 per person for a two-hour tour. Book a Chicago Gangsters Tour to explore this fascinating side of Chicago’s history.

Take a Food Tour of Little Italy

Chicago’s Little Italy neighborhood has been home to Italian immigrants since the late 19th century and has become known for its Italian restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and more. Visitors can explore Little Italy on foot with a food tour which typically includes tastings at various restaurants as well as visits to specialty stores like Italian bakeries or meat markets. Prices range from $30-$50 per person depending on tour length and type.Take a Food Tour of Little Italy to experience this vibrant neighborhood like a local!

Chase Waterfalls at Starved Rock State Park

Located about 90 miles southwest of downtown Chicago lies Starved Rock State Park – one of Illinois’ most beautiful state parks. The park features over 13 miles of trails which wind through canyons and sandstone bluffs providing visitors with stunning views of waterfalls and wildlife along the way. Admission to Starved Rock costs just $15 per vehicle or $10 per person for those traveling via public transportation or bike.Chase Waterfalls at Starved Rock State Park to experience this incredible natural beauty!

Conclusion

Chicago is an amazing city full of culture and opportunity that doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg to experience. Whether you’re looking for iconic landmarks like The Bean or Navy Pier Fireworks or want to explore some lesser-known attractions like Little Italy or Starved Rock State Park – there is something for everyone in Chicago on a budget!