10 FREE THINGS TO DO IN CHICAGO
Explore the best of Chicago with this guide to 10 fantastic free things to do in the United States' Windy City. From iconic parks and architectural marvels to world-class museums and vibrant public art, discover the diverse attractions that make Chicago a must-visit destination.
Millennium Park
Known for its iconic Cloud Gate (The Bean), Millennium Park is a popular garden with plenty of photo spots, including the Crown Fountain sculpture.
Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk offers a route along fantastic restaurants, bars, stores, and places to sit and people-watch, making it a great free activity during spring or summer.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is a public park along the lakefront offering great skyline views of the city and is often overlooked by visitors.
Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the only zoos in the U.S. that offers free admission and is open all year round.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier offers free public programs and events throughout the year, as well as fireworks twice a week during the summer.
Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center is a free cultural center worth visiting for its stunning building built in 1897, where you can appreciate the stained-glass domes and exhibits.
Grant Park
Grant Park is home to the Buckingham Fountain, one of the largest fountains in the world, which has a water display for 20 minutes every hour from May through October.
Buckingham Fountain
Buckingham Fountain, located in Grant Park, is one of the largest fountains in the world and has a water display for 20 minutes every hour from May through October, including a center jet shooting water up 150 feet in the air.
National Museum of Mexican Art
The National Museum of Mexican Art is one of the free museums in Chicago that offers free admission days.
Museum of Contemporary Photography
The Museum of Contemporary Photography is among the great museums in Chicago and has free admission days.
Smart Museum of Art
The Smart Museum of Art is one of the best museums in Chicago that offers free admission days.
The 606
Similar to New York City's High Line, The 606 is an elevated trail that takes you through various neighborhoods and gives you a glimpse of local life in Chicago.
Garfield Park Conservatory
Garfield Park Conservatory, one of the largest botanical conservatories in the U.S., features thousands of plant species from around the world in permanent and seasonal displays and offers free admission with encouraged donations.