Posts in Chicago Park District | Chicago Like a Local Blog

Chicagoans embrace summer by spending as much time outdoors as humanly possibly. From working out on the beach to dining on a lake or river-side patio, there are so many ways to make it a summer to remember. Here's yet another great outdoors option: Trade an air-conditioned movie theater for an evening under the stars and catch an outdoor movie on a Chicago summer night. Here are three venues that offer free outdoor flicks.

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March in Chicago means that spring is here and summer is right around the corner. As the weather warms up, there are more and more FREE things to do around Chicago. Read on for some top picks to finish out the month.

Burnham Wildlife Corridor

Hiking, biking and walking became literally more attractive with the opening of the new Burnham Wildlife Corridor Gathering Spaces. The South Side lakefront trail boasts local artist and community designed art installations that reflect African American, Latino and Chinese cultures. Extending from 2600 S. Lake Shore Drive to 4700 S. Lake Shore Drive, the trail weaves through the diverse communities of Chinatown, Bronzeville and Pilsen, which are highlighted by the installations.

Garfield Park Conservatory L Train

The rumble rumble of the elevated train is one of the defining features of a visit via the CTA to the 184 acres that comprise the wonders of Garfield Park. Of course, most visitors know the stellar expanse of the Garfield Park Conservatory as one of the highlights, as well they should. It is open daily and admission is FREE.

Canal Origins Park

As you get off the Ashland bus at Canal Origins Park, you might wonder “Where am I?”

Looking to the west, you will see the sprawling Chicago Sun-Times printing plant. It is silent outside, except for the movement of trunks in and out of this facility. You will not lack for noise, as Ashland Avenue is a buzz with activity all times of day. Regrettably, most people do not stop to examine the wonderful curiosities of this most wonderful slice of park

The 606

While The 606 has only been open a few weeks, Chicagoans and visitors are enjoying this 2.7-mile ribbon of recreational space that includes areas for cyclists, runners, walkers and others who wish to enjoy the community interaction and commune with nature and neighbors.

Maggie Daley Ice Ribbon

While it might not be possible to gaze down on the Jungfrau while ice skating in Chicago, the winter sports enthusiast can take advantage of the remarkable skating ribbon that is the centerpiece of Maggie Daley Park.