This month in Chicago, go ice skating in the heart of downtown, admire works in one of the world’s top art museums, and explore the largest architecture and design exhibition in North America — all without spending a dime.
Chicago is bursting with free things to do this January 2026 to start your new year off on the right note, including free museum days, cultural happenings, wintery adventures, art exhibits, MLK Day celebrations, and so much more. Start planning your budget trip to Chicago with this round-up of the free things to do and see all month long.
1. Admire a winter flower show
Early January
Chicago’s stunning indoors gardens are both hosting their annual winter shower shows.
The free-admission Lincoln Park Conservatory will be displaying a fireside-themed show, featuring a cozy ambiance and florals in glowing orange and red hues. The show is open Wednesdays to Sundays through Jan. 4, 2026.
At the stunning Garfield Park Conservatory, the Merry & Bright themed show will showcase an array of cheerful selection of poinsettias. The show is free for Chicago residents and open Thursdays through Sundays until Jan. 2, 2026.
2. See the official Chicago Christmas Tree
Through Jan. 11, 2026
It’s your last chance to soak up the holiday season in Chicago! For more than 100 years, the city has celebrated the most festive time of year with the official Chicago Christmas Tree in downtown Millennium Park. Admire the lit-up tree and snap a few photos before exploring the rest of the park. The tree will stay standing through Jan. 11, 2026.
3. Visit the Chicago Architecture Biennial
All month long
The largest architecture and design exhibition in North America is back in Chicago, featuring projects created by contributors from around the globe at free exhibits and events throughout the city.
The Chicago Architecture Biennial is centered around the Chicago Cultural Center, plus a variety of neighborhood sites with related exhibitions and programming all across the city. The Biennial’s free exhibits are now open will run through Feb. 28, 2026.
4. Get free admission at Chicago museums
Throughout January
There’s no better way to spend a winter afternoon than wandering through the new exhibits in one of Chicago’s world-class museums. And every month brings opportunities for free admission for Chicago and Illinois residents.
Here are the upcoming free museum days for Illinois residents this month:
- Art Institute of Chicago is free on weekdays starting Jan. 5, 2026
- Shedd Aquarium is free on Jan. 6 – 8, 13– 20, and 27– 29, 2026
- Chicago History Museum is free on Jan. 19 – 23 and 27 – 30, 2026
- Adler Planetarium is free on Jan. 7, 12, 14, 21, 26, and 28, 2026
- Field Museum is free every Wednesday in January
- Museum of Science and Industry is free on Jan. 12, 13, 14, 25, 26, 27, and 28, 2026
The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center is free for all every Wednesday, and the Museum of Contemporary Art is free for Illinois residents every Tuesday evening.
Explore more: Mark your calendar for free museum days throughout the year.
5. Attend Polar Adventure Day
Jan. 24, 2026
Experience the beauty of the winter season during Polar Adventure Day, a Chicago tradition since 2005. Bundle up and head to lakefront Northerly Island Park next to Chicago’s Museum Campus for a full day of family-friendly fun. Check out husky sled dog demonstrations, take part in arts and crafts activities, admire the beauty of the snowy skyline, and warm up with hot cocoa by the bonfire.
6. Go ice skating in Millennium Park
All month long
Nothing says “winter in Chicago” like gliding around on one of the city’s magical ice skating rinks. One favorite spot is the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, the free-admission rink in Millennium Park nestled in the shadow of “The Bean” and the glimmering lights of Michigan Avenue.
Admission to the rink is free; skate rentals are available for a fee. Check the schedule for free all-ages skating lessons on Saturdays and Sundays, which include free skate rentals. The Millennium Park rink closes for the season on Feb. 1, 2026.
Explore more: Find more free ice rinks throughout Chicago’s neighborhoods parks.
7. Celebrate MLK Day
Jan. 19, 2026
Chicago’s cultural community is hosting a variety of ways to reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Check out these free events happening at Chicago museums in honor of MLK Day.
- MLK Day at the Chicago History Museum: Bring the family to the Chicago History Museum for a celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. that will feature family-friendly interactive activities. Admission will be free for Illinois residents.
- King Day: Building Our Future at Art Institute of Chicago: Drop into the Ryan Learning Center for this free day celebrating Dr. King’s impact through art and performance, with activities for kids and teens.
Explore more: Discover Black history in Chicago through landmarks, museums, and more.
8. Take a tour of the Chicago Cultural Center
Every Thursday and Friday in January
A landmark destination in the Loop, the Chicago Cultural Center is a stunning public space featuring art exhibits, fascinating history, a local makers market, and soaring architecture — including the world’s largest Tiffany glass dome. Make the most of your visit with the free guided tours that meet every Thursday and Friday afternoon year-round.
While you’re there, check out free exhibits like the current showcase on artist mothers and exhibitions from the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Catch a free gallery talk every second Wednesday of the month at noon to learn more about the current artworks.
9. Visit a historic zoo
Throughout January
Lincoln Park Zoo is Chicago’s free zoo and one of the oldest in the country. It’s open all year long, including throughout the winter. Stroll through the snowy grounds, where you can watch polar bears, penguins, and snow monkeys play outside. And warm up inside the animal houses, where you can meet penguins, gorillas, lions, and more.
10. Explore the Poetry Foundation
Throughout January
Come explore a Chicago hidden gem, the Poetry Foundation, which houses a massive library, an exhibition gallery, a tree-lined courtyard, and a performance space. Visitors will find an array of events that are free and open to the public, from readings and lectures to workshops and exhibits. Come hear an up-and-coming poet, catch a film screening, or just find a moment of tranquility.
Bonus! Take a free neighborhood tour
Throughout January
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, there’s always something new to discover in Chicago. Get to know a new neighborhood on a Chicago Greeter tour, a free program that pairs visitors to Chicago with friendly local guides who will show you each neighborhood’s landmarks, hot spots, and hidden gems.
Looking for more? Check out our guide on free things to do in Chicago all year long.
