There are lots of world-famous attractions in Chicago that cost money and they’re worth every penny. But you don’t have to dig deep into your pockets to enjoy a host of wonderful experiences, because so many of them will cost you absolutely nothing! It’s part of what makes Chicago a great town.
Free Chicago Cultural Center
As one of the most comprehensive free arts showcases in the United States, the Chicago Cultural Center is a landmark building providing visitors a great place to start their journey in our great city. Expect to find exciting daily programming covering a wide range of the performing, visual, and literary arts. From an extensive visitor center to admission-free exhibitions, this beautiful jewel of Chicago is a must-see!
The building's most notable features are its spectacular stained-glass domes. The 38-foot dome in the Preston Bradley Hall in the south end of the building is the world's largest Tiffany stained-glass dome, valued at an estimated $35 million. In the north end of the building, the stained-glass dome in the G.A.R. Rotunda was executed in an intricate Renaissance pattern.
Free Lincoln Park Zoo
Come to the wildest spot in Chicago Lincoln Park Zoo where, in the shadow of skyscrapers, you can see gorillas climb trees, sea lions frolic in their pool, and lions roar in the open air to no one in particular. Best of all, this wonderful zoo is open every day of the year and always free!
Free Garfield Park and Lincoln Park Conservatories
One of the largest gardens under glass in the nation, Garfield Park Conservatory features five permanent collections, an indoor children's garden, outdoor gardens and five annual flower shows. Open daily 9am to 5pm, admission and parking are free.
Also free are the peaceful and enchanting gardens in the Lincoln Park Conservatory in the heart of Lincoln Park, adjacent to the Lincoln Park Zoo. Open 9am to 5pm daily.
Free Chicago Greeter Service
Why not let a friendly local show you around? You can make a reservation and a Chicago Greeter will gladly take you on a tour of the city. More than 100 Chicago Greeter volunteers speak 13 different languages. The Chicago Greeter registration system matches greeters with visitors based on language and interest. This service is entirely free!
More Free Things to See and Do
Chicago is one of America’s most beautiful cities and extremely walkable. Explore spectacular Millennium Park, Chicago’s hottest attraction and discover the work of world-renowned architects, planners, artists and designers. A prominent feature of the park is Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate sculpture, which reflects the city's famous skyline and invites visitors to touch its mirror-like surface. Or stroll the Boardwalk at fun-filled Navy Pier with its 150-foor Ferris wheel. Here, you can people watch while enjoying the beautiful lake views.
And let’s not forget Chicago’s sensational Lakefront and Parks with its 29 miles of walking, jogging and cycling paths along with 13 miles of beaches. This sightseeing pleasure costs no more than the price of a comfortable pair of walking shoes.