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As one of the largest – and most expensive – cities in the world, Chicago is probably not the first city that comes to mind when planning a budget trip. However, if you know where to go and what to do, you can find lots of free activities in Chicago. From cultural experiences to beautiful outdoor spaces, Chicago has something fun for everyone. Here are 35 free things to do in Chicago.
1. Take a free walking tour of Chicago
One of my favorite ways to start a trip to a new city is by taking a free walking tour. A few companies that offer free walking tours in Chicago are Chicago Greeter (or Instagreeter for shorter tours), Free Tours by Foot, and Free Chicago Walking Tours. Since free walking tours are all run by volunteer guides who are taking time out of their day to welcome you into their city, please remember to tip them at the end of your tour.
Chicago Greeter
Chicago Greeter offers personalized tours ranging in length from two to four hours long. Groups must be six people or fewer, have confirmed accommodations in Chicago, and book at least 10 business days in advance. The best thing about Chicago Greeter tours is that you get to see exactly what you’re interested in. If you want to see a particular neighborhood in Chicago, your greeter can build a personalized tour of that neighborhood for you. If you want to focus on a particular area of interest, such as architecture, food, LGBTQ+, or family activities, your greeter can put together a personalized tour of Chicago, focusing on that particular area of interest.
Instagreeter
If you don’t have time to spend 2-4 hours on a tour and just want a brief overview of Chicago, then the Instagreeter free walking tour might be the one for you. Instagreeter tours are one hour long and cover Chicago history, architecture, the Chicago River, and the Lakefront. You don’t need to register in advance, and tours are offered daily at 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, and 2:30pm. These informal tours are one of my favorite quick free activities in Chicago.
Free Tours by Foot
Free Tours by Foot offers a number of free walking tours covering all aspects of Chicago. While each tour varies in length, most tours are around two hours long. Here is a list of the most up to date seasonal and year-round tours you can take through Free Tours by Foot:
- Regularly scheduled tours:
- Architecture Tour
- Riverwalk and Chicago History Tour
- North Loop and Millennium Park Tour
- Ghost Tour
- Magnificent Mile Tour
- Weekly tours:
- Gold Coast Tour
- Lincoln Park and Gangster Tour
- West Loop Tour
- Wicker Park Culture and Street Art Tour
- Winter tours:
- Pedway Tour
- Winter Loop Tour
- Winter Architecture Tour
Make sure you check online for the full Free Tours by Foot calendar before you visit.
Free Chicago Walking Tours
Like Free Tours on Foot, Free Chicago Walking Tours offers a variety of two hour long tours of Chicago. Tours offered by Free Chicago Walking Tours include the following:
- Loop Interior Tour
- Pedway Underground Winter Tour
- Crime and Gangster Tour
- Off the Grid Tour
- Riverwalk Tour
- Loop and Public Art Tour
- Lakefront Music and Arts Tour
- Millennium Park Tour
- Gold Coast Tour
Make sure you check online for the full Free Chicago Walking Tours calendar before you visit.
2. Go ice skating at one of the many public ice rinks in Chicago
A fun way to spend time outdoors during the winter in Chicago is ice skating. There are many outdoor ice skating rinks in Chicago, but the two most popular free rinks are the Maggie Daley ribbon and the McCormick Tribune rink at Millennium Park. While admission is free, there is a rental fee if you don’t have your own skates. Skate rentals cost $13 Monday – Thursday or $15 Friday – Sunday and on holidays.
The McCormick Tribune ice rink also offers free ice skating lessons on Fridays at 11am and Saturdays and Sundays at 9am.
Make sure you check online for the most up to date hours and zamboni times at each of the rinks, so you can plan your visit accordingly.
3. Laugh at your own reflection in The Bean (Cloud Gate)
“The Bean” is one of the most iconic sculptures in Chicago. It is referred to as “The Bean” because of it shape, but its formal name is Cloud Gate. Tourists and locals alike love looking at their own reflections in the bean, and it’s not unusual to find people in weird poses and positions trying to get a creative looking photo there.
4. Attend a concert at the Grant Park Music Festival in the summer
Grant Park Music Festival is a 10-week classical music series that runs from June to August each year and features the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra and Grant Park Chorus, along with featured guests. It takes place at the outdoor ampitheatre in Grant Park and is free to the public. Bring a picnic and enjoy the entire concert, or stop by and have a quick listen while visiting the Bean or Art Institute. Spending time in Grant Park is one of our favorite things to do in Chicago!
5. Take your date on a romantic walk through Lurie Garden in Millennium Park
Lurie Garden is a 2.5 acre garden on the south end of Millennium Park. There are walking paths that run through the gardens, so you can fully immerse in the natural environment. Whether you’re a horticulture enthusiast or not, this is a great place for a romantic walk with your date or quiet meditation time for yourself.
6. Window shop on the Magnificent Mile
If you enjoy shopping, you will find your version of paradise on the Magnificent Mile, a mile long section of Michigan Avenue lined with high end shops. While you may not be able to afford much from these stores or may not wish to blow your entire travel budget on clothes, window shopping is always free! Check out the newest styles and trends on the Mag Mile, and who knows? You might even spot someone famous!
7. Enjoy photography and art at the Museum of Contemporary Photography
The Museum of Contemporary Photography (MOCP) is one of my favorite museums in the city but remains unknown to most locals. It is located inside the Columbia College building on Michigan Avenue right across from Grant Park and the Buckingham Fountain. The MOCP was founded by Columbia College in 1976 and showcases photography from top photographers in Chicago, nationwide, and throughout the entire world. Despite its status as the leading photography museum in the Midwest, it is rare to find more than a few people in there at one time, so it’s a great way to escape the crowds on Michigan Avenue and enjoy art and photography in a quiet setting.
8. Say hello to the animals at Lincoln Park Zoo
Like most big cities, Chicago has a zoo called the Lincoln Park Zoo. Founded in 1868, it is one of the oldest zoos in North America and one of the only to offer free admission. The Lincoln Park Zoo occupies 35 acres in the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood and is just steps away from Lake Michigan. Make sure you check out their bustling events calendar to see if you can catch one of the many fun events held there regularly.
9. Stroll around Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a 3,300 foot long pier that juts out onto Lake Michigan. The pier is lined with shops, restaurants, and even a movie theatre. There are also many fun free activities and events taking place there daily. From cruise outings to yoga classes to mini golf to the summer beer garden to performances by top musicians and artists, Navy Pier is always full of energy and excitement. Although some of the activities cost money, it is free to stroll around Navy Pier and take in the sights.
10. Get the best view of the city from Promontory Point
Another structure that juts out into Lake Michigan is Promontory Point, which offers the best views of the Chicago skyline. It is located directly east of Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood, home to the prestigious University of Chicago. In the summertime, you’ll find sunbathers, swimmers, kayakers, and wind surfers in the water and on the nearby beaches. Enjoy the lake breeze and the views here on your way to lunch at Hyde Park or an afternoon at the Museum of Science and Industry.
11. Get cultured at the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen
The National Museum of Mexican Art is the first Mexican cultural center/museum in the Midwest and the largest in the United States. Located in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, a largely hispanic neighborhood bustling with culture and some of the city’s best Mexican cuisine, this 10,000 piece permanent collection is sure to blow you away. Even though its pieces travel to museums all over the world, it is always free to view the collections in Chicago. The museum is open Tuesday thru Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM and offers free admission to the public. You can check the event calendar here prior to your visit.
12. Attend a free event at the DANK Haus German American Cultural Center in Lincoln Square
DANK Haus is a German cultural center and language school in Lincoln Square, a neighborhood with strong Germany roots. Be sure to grab a quick bite at one of the many authentic German restaurants in the neighborhood and experience the ways in which the German-American community has influenced Chicago with its culture and customs. DANK Haus is open Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm. Admission is always free, but there is a suggested $5 donation for those who are able to give back.
13. Walk or bike along Lake Michigan on the Lakefront Trail
The Chicago Lakefront Trail is an 18-mile long path that runs north and south along Lake Michigan. Whether you’re looking to go for a relaxing walk or trying to fit your daily run into your vacation schedule, the Lakefront Trail is where you want to be. If you’re a photographer, you’ll want to come here during sunrise to capture some of the most stunning views of Chicago. You can also rent a bike, scooter, or take a segway tour if that’s more your pace.
14. Admire the landscape and artwork on the 606
The 606 is one of the newer additions to Chicago and one of my favorite places to be when I’m looking for some free things to do in Chicago on a nice day. Similar to the High Line in New York City, the 606 is an elevated path built on an old railroad that has since been abandoned. Today, the 606 path is lined on both sides with mini parks and unique artwork. Take a walk, go for a run, or load up on your IG content on the 606. As far as free activities in Chicago go, this is one of my go-to’s.
15. Explore the ancient world at the Oriental Institute in Hyde Park
Go back in history to the ancient Near-East world at the Oriental Institute in Hyde Park. Here, you’ll find exhibits showcasing the history, art, and archaelogy of the ancient Near East. Some galleries you’ll find at the Oriental Institute include the following:
- Mesopotamian gallery
- Assyrian Empire gallery
- Syro-Anatolian gallery
- Megiddo gallery
- Egyptian gallery
- Persian gallery
- Nubian gallery
Admission is free, but there is a $10 suggested donation for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and under. The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm and Wednesday until 8pm. Don’t forget to check their events calendar for fun events that are taking place during your visit.
16. Have a photo shoot at the Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center is one of the most beautiful buildings in Chicago. As soon as you walk in, you’ll see an open lobby with intricately designed ceiling details held up by beautiful pillars. Don’t forget to bring your camera here, and try to catch one of the free tours offered throughout the week. The Chicago Cultural Center is open on weekdays from 10am-7pm and on weekends from 10am-5pm, and free tours are offered every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 1:15pm. Admission is always free.
17. Take a dance break at SummerDance
From June 26, 2019 to August 24, 2019, the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park transforms into an outdoor open dance floor. The summer 2019 schedule features swing, house, salsa, folk dance, and much more! You can find the full schedule here. There are regular performances by all sorts of dance groups, and of course you are always welcome to dance along!
18. Take in all the free smells at the Taste of Chicago
Another fun summer event is the Taste of Chicago, an outdoor food festival showcasing the diverse range of foods that make up Chicago. Although the food is not free, it is free to walk around and take in all the smells. The Taste of Chicago was held from July 10-14, 2019, and dates for 2020 have not yet been announced.
19. Take in more free smells at the Maxwell Street Market every Sunday
The Maxwell Street Market takes place every Sunday from 9am-3pm year round. Located on Desplaines St. between Polk St. and Taylor St., the Maxwell Street Market is an iconic Chicago market steeped in history and tradition. It is also one of the only places in the city where you can bargain for what you buy. The merchandise sold at the market include an eclectic mix of products ranging from clothing to collectibles to fresh produce to tires. You can also find some of the best Mexican street food in Chicago at the Maxwell Street Market. If you want to see and taste something interesting and unique, the Maxwell Street Market is for you.
20. Peruse Whole Foods for free samples
There are a number of Whole Foods markets scattered throughout the city, and you can often find free samples inside. After a long walk, duck into a Whole Foods and try your luck at scoring some delicious free samples.
21. Tour a brewery
Chicago’s brewery scene has been growing quickly in the last few years, and many breweries offer free brewery tours. My favorite is Lagunitas, a California based brewery that opened only a few years ago in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood. Tours are offered every day of the week, but free samples are only given on weekday tours. Other Chicago area breweries that offer free tours include Revolution, Two Brothers, and 3 Floyds.
22. Eat wings for free at Burwood Tap
When you started searching for free things to do in Chicago, you probably weren’t expecting to find free food – like, an actual meal and not just free samples at the grocery store. Every Thursday at 8:30pm, Burwood Tap offers free wings. If you find yourself in Chicago on a Thursday, head over to Burwood Tap for some free wings over a tasty beer and game of pool.
Burwood Tap is located at 734 W. Wrightwood Ave in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. They are open every day from 11am-2am (until 3am on Saturday nights/Sunday mornings).
23. Admire the Chicago waterways from the Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago riverwalk is one of the newest additions to the city and most lively places to be in the summer. Bars and restaurants line the riverwalk and are always bustling with people and energy in the warmer months. At night, the riverwalk is illuminated by lights. If you want to feel fully immersed in a big U.S. city, find a seat at one of the restaurants on the riverwalk, and take it all in. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your camera.
24. Give your eyes an aesthetic recharge at the Chicago Design Museum
The Chicago Design Museum is located on the third floor of Block Thirty Seven, a collection of shops and restaurants in the heart of downtown Chicago. My favorite thing about the Chicago Design Museum is how versatile and relevant it is to modern day life. Some of my favorite past exhibits include the following:
- Keep Moving: Designing Chicago’s Bicycle Culture
- Great Ideas of Humanity: Out of the Container
- HEY! PLAY! Games in Modern Culture
- ChicagoMade: Great Ideas of Humanity
- Unfolded: Made With Paper
The Chicago Design Museum is open Monday-Saturday from 10am-6pm and Sunday from 11am-4pm. Admission is free, but there is a $5 suggested donation.
25. Explore Chicago’s underground pedway system
There are over 40 blocks of underground pedestrian way (pedway) in downtown Chicago, linking many of the subway stops, restaurants, and shops, to make getting around in the winter a bit more bearable. If you’re traveling in the winter months, make sure to take advantage of this system to avoid the cold. Regardless of the weather, take a walk through the underground system and try not to get lost in the maze-like tunnels!
26. Catch the sunrise or sunset at Humboldt Park
Humboldt Park is a 219 acre park on the west side of Chicago. Situated in the middle of Humboldt Park is an iconic fieldhouse and cultural center that contains a fitness center, meeting rooms, an inland beach, and historic lagoons and a boat house. While a sunrise or sunset over Lake Michigan is beautiful, the view from Humboldt Park is much more unique and full of character.
27. Get smart at the Smart Museum of Art
The Smart Museum of Art is the fine arts museum at the University of Chicago. It houses over 15,000 unique art objects ranging from modern masterpieces to centuries old Chinese artifacts. It is free and open to the public Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm (8pm on Thursday).
28. Read a book at the Chicago Botanic Garden
Situated on 385 acres in the northern suburb of Glencoe, the Chicago Botanic Garden is the perfect place to spend an afternoon relaxing with a book or taking a stroll through with a loved one. Its history dates back to 1965 when the groundbreaking took place and is now one of the best examples of a successful public-private partnership, with ownership belonging to the Forest Preserve District of Cook County and operations led by the Chicago Horticultural Society.
The Botanic Garden is open daily from 8am-7pm in the warmer months and 8am-5pm in the colder months. Make sure you check their full hours of operation here before visiting.
29. Experience free theatre at the Free Street Theatre
The Free Street Theatre is exactly what it sounds like – a place for artists to freely express their ideas, for the public to freely view the shows, and for aspiring performers to take free classes. Make sure you check the online events calendar to see the theatre’s latest events – any performance you choose will be interesting for sure.
30. Show off your dance moves at Beauty Bar
As your day is winding down, head over to Beauty Bar for cocktails, dancing, and even a manicure. Manicures are available Wednesday-Saturday from 7pm-12am and Sunday from 9pm-12am. The 60s vibe is in full force here, and you will see people dressed according to the times. Arrive between 7-9 PM for free admission.
31. Attend a free comedy show at Gman Tavern
Who can say no to free comedy? Gman Tavern is an old-school, local bar with a very low-key vibe. In addition to free comedy, you will also find pinball and pool at the tavern, as well as some of the area’s best craft beer. Gman Tavern is open Sunday-Friday from 3pm-2am, Saturday from 3pm-3am, and two hours before every Cubs game. Make sure you check the events calendar online to find out when the next free comedy show is taking place.
32. Admire the architecture at the Harold Washington Library
Located in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood, Harold Washington Library is the main library in the Chicago Public Libraries system. It was named after Harold Washington, Chicago’s first African American mayor, and has been open since 1991. The interior is beautiful – make sure you make your way up to the top floor to take in all the views. The library is open Monday-Thursday from 9am-9pm, Friday-Saturday from 9am-5pm, and Sunday from 1pm-5pm.
33. Let your kids run wild at Maggie Daley Park
Maggie Daley Park is one of the newer additions to Chicago and already bustling with life and energy. This 20 acre park includes an ice skating ribbon in the winter and an outdoor climbing wall in the summer. It’s a lot of fun for the whole family, and with its prime location on the north end of Grant Park, you have no excuse not to stop by.
34. Enjoy local art at one of the city’s most treasured landmarks
The historic Water Tower on Michigan Avenue is much more than just a shopping mall. It is also home to City Gallery, a rotating art exhibit showcasing the works of local artists. Make sure you stop by on your shopping break and admire the wealth of artistic talent springing from the local Chicago community. City Gallery is open Monday-Friday from 10am-7pm and Saturday-Sunday from 10am-5pm. Admission is always free.
35. Watch a water show every hour at Buckingham Fountain
The Buckingham Fountain, located on the south end of Grant Park, is one of the largest fountains in the world. You can catch a 20-minute water show here every hour, and the after dark shows are choreographed with music and lights. The fountain runs from May until mid-October from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.
Looking for more fun things to do in Chicago? Then you might want to check out these posts:
- A Local’s Guide to the 35 Best Restaurants in Chicago
- 7 Awesome Things to do in Chicago
- A Local’s Guide to the 15 Best Breweries in Chicago
- Kayaking in Chicago With REI
- 25 Most Instagrammable Restaurants, Bars, and Cafes in Chicago
Like it? Love it? Pin it!
A lot of people think the beer in the US is a joke but it’s actually very good! I need to confirm this, you can get a free brewery tour and on weekdays you get free samples of the beer on the free brewery tour? There are also free wings at Burwood Tap after 8-30, I wish I had read this before I visited Chicago. The views of the city look pretty amazing from the Maggie Daley Park too.
Yep, you’re 100% correct. Might I add too that the free samples on weekdays are quite generous and will get you quite buzzed before you’ve spent a penny. Let me know when you’re headed back to Chicago! 🙂
This is a fantastic list but I HAVE A FEW ADDITIONS:
*96th floor in the Hancock building. The ride up is absolutely free. Go on a week day, during the day and it will not be crowded with lines. You may buy a drink or not. Sit to look out at the PHENOMENAL views. I’ve been up there, walked around, went to the ladies room (BEST VIEWS ARE FROM THERE ACTUALLY… HE HE HE). No one bothered us and we simply went back down the elevator and ALL ABSOLUTELY FREE.
*The Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. OMG. This place is gorgeous, with antique, intricately carved woodwork GALORE. I wandered around and went from floor to floor and no one bothered me. On the 13th floor there is a ROOFTOP BAR CALLED CINDY’S. It’s a bit pricey. But I wandered out to the veranda, which overlooks Millennium Park and the Lake… took some pics and then left with no one bothering me. This was during the day, during off peak hours again. The views from up there are FANTASTIC! FREE.
*The historic MARSHALL FIELDS building, now occupied by Macys. The ceiling inside and architecture is worth a visit. During spring they have the whole place decorated with flowers and greens like a botanical garden. Instagram pic heaven. FREE. During the holidays they have the windows to see. FREE.
*Restoration Hardware. This place is unREAL! it’s in a completely renovated, historic, brick building. Gorgeous atrium roof over a lovely restaurant with a fountain. They have a bar there and also FREE valet parking. But the best part is that it’s a multi-level store… like 10 stories or so. You can wander at will , FOR FREE, through the whole place. The upper level is open to pretty cool views. You can sit up there and chat. Or take pics.. You can take drinks up there too if you like. The top floor is all decorated like an outdoor space with furniture by Restoration Hardware. There is also an open to air — deck area. There’s also an ART floor. You will be lost in this place for hours. FOR FREE!
*Trump Tower. Okay, I went during the election time. I was surprised that I was able to just walk in the doors and take the elevator up to their restaurant. There’s an outdoor veranda area for warm weather fun. It’s not free. But the views of the river and city are gorgeous. I was able to take pics up there for FREE. Again, no one bothered me. Maybe I’m invisible and just don’t realize it. If so, I’m not minding it one bit! LOL
Chicago is a wonderful place to visit. And the newly renovated river walk has opened up another glorious avenue to revel in! Have fun!
Awesome listing. This is most definitely important for every budget traveler! When I visited in London, my first online search was for the free things to do. Only after that I went on to do the paid things!! Lolz!!!
Haha I’m the exact same way. No shame in that. 🙂
I have never been to the windy city and would so love to visit. We always travel with the kids and enjoy seeing things through their eyes. We would never miss something as iconic as the bean!! Love stuff like that and so do the kids.
You would love Chicago! Come in the summer when the kids can just run around on the beach or in the parks – the best kind of fun is the free kind!
What a great post of things you can do in Chicago! The Windy City is one of our favorite places to go for a quick weekend getaway (I mean, why not, it’s a cheap flight and only an hour or so from Minneapolis!), and I’m elated to see that while we’ve done several of these (love seeing the Bean, and walking along the waterfront is so fun), there’s plenty else to do on our next trip. Sounds like there’s a lot of bars and art left to explore. 😀
Also, I had to chuckle at the Whole Foods bit. We used to live right down the street from Whole Foods and often went to sample their wares, mainly cheese and crackers. Good times! I miss it.
Haha glad you can relate. I don’t think all my habits from being a poor student have worn off yet. Yes – there are always new bars to explore, and that’s one of my favorite things about living here. Come visit soon!
Love your pictures! I’ve never been to Chicago but you def made me curious! After my traveling in New Zealand I will visit that place!
Wow, this is really good to know! I went to Chicago over 11 years ago but really want to go back! Hopefully I can find a cheap flight and take advantage of some of those breweries!
The breweries are my favorite. Let me know if you need a brewery buddy. 🙂
Thanks for this, I am off to Chicago next month and I didn’t know about half of these. You’ve given a list that has a little something for everyone, I can go shopping and the other half can go to the breweries 🙂
That’s awesome, LJ, hope you guys enjoy your trip! There really is something here for everyone.
the walking tour, local art and free theater does sound most interesting. This is a very comprehensive list of things to do for free, will really help everyone plan economical trips in Chicago.
Love, love, love. This is exactly what I was looking for for our upcoming trip. It’s like you read my mind. Looking forward to doing all of this (at least I’ll try)!
So glad to help! Enjoy your trip – hopefully I’ll be in town then and can meet you guys! 🙂
Your photos are gorgeous, as usual. I particularly like the one of the Bean! I visited Chicago a few years ago, but unfortunately lost a piece of jewellery that was particularly dear to me, which ruined the trip. A shame, as there are clearly plenty of fun things to do there.
So many great things to do in Chicago for the “right price”. Saved for future reference for a visit when it’s a bit warmer!
Let me know when you come visit! Would love to meet you and show you around!
This is a very useful article. We love walking tours, so it’s good to know there are a few of them in Chicago as well. Doing things for free in a city you visit for first time is awesome, and Chicago is definitely a place we want to visit in the future. Pined already!
Thanks, guys! Hope you get to visit soon! 🙂
The city looks really beautiful! And I love always those kind of guides with tips on how to enjoy a city without expending too much money! great!
Thanks for the this list. I’m pinning it for when I go to Chicago. The Chicago Greeter sounds like a great concept. I also love the free walking tours. And I’ve never heard of a free zoo before!
Thanks, Sara! I’m with you – most zoos are quite expensive actually. Hope you get to visit Chicago soon. 🙂
I always thought Chicago would be so expensive, but you’ve definitely made me think again. I’ve never visited but I do have friends that live out there and I’ve been putting off visiting because of budget. Armed with your free tips I think I might have to make visiting a priority now. It looks so fun!
You have no reason not to come visit now! It is a ton of fun, and best of all it doesn’t have to be expensive fun. Hope you make it here soon. 🙂
This is an excellent post full of useful information. Would love to do the walking tour. Never been to Chicago but would love to visit. Have pinned this for future reference. #feetdotravel
Thanks, guys! Hope you get to visit soon.
A great list of Free Things to do in Chicago. I will definitely pin this for later use. I was there in the winter but not sure what there was to do and I love free things! Stunning photos and Thanks for Sharing 🙂 #feetdotravel
Thanks, Stephanie! There definitely are more things to do in Chicago in the summer than in the winter. Hope you’re able to make it back here in the summer so you can enjoy it more. 🙂
Chicago looks like an amazing place to visit!! I’ve only been to their airport on a short layover, but I really want to visit one day. I love free walking tours, so I’ll definitely save this post for when I do eventually go!
First of all, I admire your patience ;). Even simply writing down 35 entries is commendable. There are some great opportunities there. #25 – I still have to do it. #9, Navy Pier – I like to go to the end of it and admire Chicago skyline from there. #13, Lakefront Trail – one of my favorites too. However, there are some cruel choices too. #6, window shopping on the Magnificent Mile – nope, never worked for me. I mean “window” part. Somehow, I always quickly switched to actual shopping (terrible idea considering store names there). ##18,19 – are you kidding me? Just smells? No way! I have to taste the Taste of Chicago. Cheers!
Haha you’re right, those were some cruel options. Window shopping usually works better for me when I leave my wallet at home, so there is no temptation there (or at least I can’t do anything about the temptation). The Taste of Chicago is July 5-9 this year, so if you’re free that weekend, you could consider coming to Chicago. 🙂
The Windy City! We haven’t been to Chicago yet but it’s in our itinerary for 2018 when we embark on a month-long vacation to the US after my daughter finishes her college. It’s something we have been meaning to do but always end up traveling to either the East coast or West coast and never passing in any state along the way. 🙂 Thanks for sharing these free things to do while in Chicago. It’s good to know 🙂
That sounds like a fun trip, Ria. A month in the US is way too long to not see Chicago at all! Hope you make it here and enjoy your trip. 🙂
This is a great list! Chicago is one of our favorite cities in America, and we have yet to do everything you mentioned. Our favorite restaurant is Mindy’s hot chocolate, we highly recommend trying it next time you are in the city.
Funny you mention that because Mindy’s was one of the first restaurants I tried when I moved here in 2011. I have never had hot chocolates as rich as the ones at Mindy’s. Glad you had the chance to experience Mindy’s, and hope you make it back soon!
Awesome list and with 3 kids we always love FREE things to do – my kids and probably my hubby to would love to laugh at their reflections in the ball and me I would love the markets and the Water tower looks like a cool stop!
Ohh so many good ideas on here! I’ve been to Chicago twice and totally loved it. I really want to go back and take my boyfriend. I think visiting the bean is my favourite!
I still love visiting the bean even after living here for 6 years! It’s such a beautiful site, and making goofy reflections never gets old.
Ummm YES to #20 haahah, I thought that was just my friends and I! ALL the free samples!! Pinning this for future ref 🙂
Hahah old habits die hard, Sarah. Being a poor college/grad student for 6 years definitely instilled some “bad” habits in me that I still haven’t gotten rid of. A favorite being the free samples at Whole Foods. Glad I’m not alone. 🙂
Chicago has been on my list for so long by now… Happy to see that it is not only about n.3 which is probably the most IG-posted :)) Great job putting it together and lovely pictures, girls!
It’s so wonderful to know there are so many free things to do in Chicago, especially in museums! Wonderful post!
Chicago is such an amazing place. We just love the views of the skyline from the Shedd aquarium. We did not know there are so many free things to do while at Chicago. Loved the fountain near the Millenium park, though. Very informative post.
This is such a comprehensive guide to a place that’s been forever on my bucket list. Thanks for sharing, because, come on, who doesn’t love free stuff!
Thanks for sharing this Chicago really looks amazing. Would love to visit one day
I haven’t been to Chicago before, I will save this list for later as it looks like a great city to visit. Free brewery tour and free wings?! That’s heaven. Nowadays, I think in every city you have free things to do that are worth trying. Thank you for your patience of writing about all of the 35 points.
I didn’t realise there are so many free things to do in Chicago. Most of the things on your list are places I am not aware of and u didn’t know Chicago has the Underground city like Toronto 🙂 I have pinned for future use.
Yep a lot of big cities in the north have the underground tunnels! It’s a huge necessity given how cold it gets here in the winter. Chicago has a ton of hidden gems, many of which are free. 🙂
I’ve been to a lot of the big American cities but have never made it to Chicago for some reason – now I’m thinking it’s a good thing, I’m now armed with this amazing list of free things to do! I’ll be based in the States this year so will aim for a visit in the summer, thanks!
Summer is the perfect time to visit Chicago, Sheena! You will love it. 🙂
The public ice skating ring sounds like a great idea. I recently tried ice skating for the first time in Melbourne (I know I’m way behind) and absolutely loved it. It’s fairly difficult at first but fun once you pick it up. The ring I tried was indoors so I would love to have a go outdoors.
It is pretty tricky at first, but most of the people around you will be beginners as well, so you’ll feel like you’re in good company at least. Hope you get to visit Chicago and skate on an outdoor rink one day. 🙂
Awesome article. I hate that I have visited here many times in the past to see family, but never actually experienced the city. Will definitely move my butt next time and do more than just snooze the weekend away when visiting family. Awesome tips!
Chicago is a lot of fun and so much to do. Great list of free things here, like any city it can be a little pricey so it’s nice to have this handy when visiting. For anyone thinking of visiting the food in Chitown is wonderful.
Really great tips, especially free ones! not been to Chicago yet, but will pin this for future reference 🙂
Chicago is one of my favourite cities in the world and I am obsessed with the sports teams so I will definitely save this guide for later as I am likely to be in Chicago again sooner rather than later. Some amazing tips for different times of year. Can’t wait to do as many of the things on this list as possible on my next visit!
So cool to hear that! Are you from the Chicago area originally? Did you make it here during the World Series last fall?
Some fab suggestions- not a city I have visited in the USA yet but hope to one day!
So many free things to do, this is incredible! I love panoramic views so would definitely head for Promontory Point, and the walking tours would be a fabulous way of getting your bearings and seeing the city. Cycling is always such a fantastic way of seeing a city as well so we would check out the Chicago Lakefront Trail, some of our favourite day trips have been cycling! Love the breakdancing as well .. in fact, I love so much of what there is to do for free, thank you for sharing! Pinned for future reference. #feetdotravel
Glad to hear it, Angie! Hope you get to come visit soon. You definitely won’t be bored, even without spending a single penny!
i have to get myself to the USA. love your blog btw 🙂
Thanks so much, Serena. Hope you have the chance to come visit soon. 🙂
Wow so many great free things to do there. I’m definitely doing a gangster tour next time I’m there! Thanks for compiling this awesome list!
This is such an amazing list! Who knew that there were so many awesome free things to do in Chicago?! I haven’t been since I was a kid but after reading the list I’m ready to start looking at flights 🙂
Yes definitely do! I’m sure it’s changed so much since you were last here. Let me know if you make it and I’d be happy to meet up! 🙂
Chicago is one of the cities I still have to visit! Loved your post – full of usefull tips and ideas, very handy! Didn´t realize there were soooooo many things to do and see in Chicago!
Thanks, Anna! These are just the free things! There’s plenty more to do if you’re willing to dish out a few bucks!
Great post, Diana! I can now visit Chicago on a budget!
Im hitting the road for chicago tonight. So glad i found this. ??
So glad you found this, Renee! Feel free to reach out if you want more Chicago recommendations when you get here 🙂
The botanical gardens don’t look free on their website. I’m confused.
Hey Jenny, here’s the website to the botanical gardens: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/visit
As you can see on the website, admission is free. If you’d like to bring a car, there is a fee for parking. Hope this helps 🙂
Hey guys, thanks for all the great info! My friend introduced me to Chicago nearly four years ago; she promised I would love it, and I did! In fact, we both enjoy Chicagoso much, that now we make it our annual girls’ trip! We always go in December, and I would really like to experience summertime there- it looks beautiful at that time as well!
Your photographs are beautiful!!
*P.S. if you have any suggestions for visiting in the cooler weather months it would be great!!?
Hi Elena! So glad to hear you loved Chicago so much it is now your annual girl’s trip! You absolutely should come back in the summertime – it is a completely different city in the summer!
As for the winter, one of my favorite things to do is go ice skating in one of the many public ice skating rinks around the city! My favorite ones are the one by the Bean, the one at Maggie Daley Park, and if you like animals – the one at the Lincoln Park Zoo! Around Christmas time, there is a Christmas market at the Daley Plaza called Christkindlmarket where you can find lots of Christmas decor and some delicious spiced wine 🙂 Otherwise, I would recommend finding a cozy bar or cafe to spend the afternoon at, either with friends or with a book. Chicago is becoming a major food scene, as you probably have seen from your many trips here, so there is no shortage of bars, cafes and restaurants!
Loved your list, Diana! I will be making my first trip to Chicago next month and I already can’t wait to be there to visit as many of these places as possible. Happy travels!
A comprehensive write up on the Windy City. I have never been in USA. I would love to follow your tips when I go there. A lovely blog!!!!
What amazes me is your list of free things to do. There are so many that can occupy a complete day or two. I like the way you describe the cloud bean. Never thought of it as a creative expression. And now you also, tell me that there is plenty underground as there is over to shop and enjoy. I like the sound of Chicago through your post.
I love this article. Having never been to Chicago I am now planning my next trip to the USA. I love walking tours, there are so many to choose from it will take me at least a week to do them plus all of the other sights you have mentioned. Definitely heading for the free wings whilst enjoying a beer and playing pool.
Lovely post with so many great ideas! I’ve only been to Chicago a few times for a few hours during layovers. There’s so much I haven’t seen! I would love to go skating there in the winter. So many beautiful Christmas movies are set there, so that’s always appealed to me!
I loved reading your post, as before 20 days back, I was in Chicago and I loved it. I loved walking in parks, admiring bean and skyline. Even the architecture cruise across the river is worth doing. Missed that Maxwell street market due to lack of time, but will do it during my next visit.
I have been planning to visit Chicago next year but I probably won’t have more than 2-3 days in the city, however, it seems like there’s a lot to do! Visiting the Bean is definitely on the list, its THE thing to do there but I see there’s so much more than that. The walking tours sound like a great way to explore the place, I like the whole list of options available from Walking Tours by Foot. I’d also love a stroll around the Navy Pier, and the Maggie Daley Park sounds like my kind of place to spend the day!
I absolutely love Chicago! It is such a beautiful and busy city. My absolute favorites there are Field Museum and walking at the lake. One thing I would like to try is kayaking at the river. I just heard about it recently. This a great list of things in Chicago.
As a resident of the Midwest, I love visiting Chicago! I definitely believe that walking tours are a great way to explore the city. I definitely want to explore the city via boat as well. I also love the architecture of the city. I’ll definitely check out the library when I’m there!