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on-a-budget

Chicago style

On a budget

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Some of the best things in life (and Chicago) are free. The city is packed with budget-friendly events and activities, like free museum days, free festivals, inexpensive attractions, and more.

Here’s our round-up of the coolest free and cheap things to see and do in Chicago.

Kids play in Crown Fountain in Millennium Park

See top sights for free

Do classic Chicago on the cheap with free museums, attractions, zoos, and more no-cost things to do.

Millennium Park Pritzker Pavilion During a Beautiful Evening

Check out free festivals and events

From lakefront music festivals to neighborhood street fairs, free events define summer in Chicago.

Osaka Garden

See hidden gems

Public art by Picasso, free neighborhood tours, open gallery nights, and more. Here's how to see Chicago's lesser known side on the cheap.

A group of friends play volleyball at North Avenue Beach

Explore the outdoors

Don’t let the skyscrapers fool you. Chicago is home to beaches, parks, and miles of lakefront to explore for free.

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