This summer, enjoy everything Chicago has to offer without breaking your budget. We’ve rounded up some of the best free and cheap things to do and see all over the city: visit a world-class museum, explore a neighborhood with a local, relax on a sandy beach, attend a bucket-list summer festival, and so much more
Make the most of your summer in Chicago with our budget guide to the best of the city.
There’s something free to do every day of the week in Chicago. Stroll a farmers market, check out a neighborhood street fair, explore an art museum, be mesmerized by a stunning fireworks display, and so much more. Check out the top free events happening this month in Chicago.
Chicago’s lakefront comes alive in the summer, when locals and visitors alike flock to more than two dozen free beaches along Lake Michigan.
Find the best spots to relax in the sand, swim in the fresh water, and admire the jaw-dropping skyline views.
The award-winning Chicago Riverwalk is a bustling pedestrian pathway in the heart of the city’s downtown. This scenic stretch offers up-close views of passing boats and the surrounding architecture, including many of the city’s most famous landmarks. It’s the perfect spot to kick back on a summer day.
You don’t need to break your budget to experience Chicago’s diverse cultural scene. The city is filled with always-free museums and galleries, featuring everything from contemporary photography to Chicago history to ancient cultures and beyond.
The family-friendly Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the country — and it’s free and open to the public 365 days a year. Summer is an excellent time to visit, when the animals are active and the zoo’s lush lakefront grounds are in full bloom.
Chicago’s streets are brimming with public art, from colorful murals to iconic statues to a digital display that span two city blocks. Start with “The Bean”, one of Chicago’s most famous public works. Then head into our neighborhoods to discover dynamic displays by local artists, from thought-provoking monuments to streets lined with eye-catching murals.
Come discover why they call us “the city in a garden”. Chicago boasts hundreds of free public parks, from a downtown urban oasis to lakefront wildlife havens. Highlights include a hidden lily pond, an authentic Japanese garden, sprawling lagoons anchored by a historic boathouse, a whimsical playscape for kids to run and play, and so much more.
Add these free Chicago events to your calendar this summer and beyond.
Navy Pier
Millennium Park
Hyde Park
Millennium Park
Millennium Park
Northalsted
Millennium Park
Millennium Park
Chinatown
Grant Park
Bronzeville
Lakefront
Millennium Park
Millennium Park
Citywide
On select dates throughout the year, Chicago museums open their doors and offer free admission for Illinois residents. Visit acclaimed art galleries, history museums, interactive play spaces, and so much more during this summer’s free museum days in Chicago.
Situated in the heart of the country, Chicago is the perfect road trip starting point or destination.
Our city is surrounded by easy day trip options, from Pullman National Monument to Indiana Dunes National Park, if you’re looking for a fun reason to extend your trip.
And don’t miss out on the ultimate road trip — Route 66. This iconic stretch of Americana officially begins in downtown Chicago.
The free Chicago Greeter program pairs visitors with friendly locals who will guide you through authentic Chicago, from must-see favorites to hidden gems.
These personalized visits offer a deep dive into the Chicago neighborhood of your choice, led by a friendly local.
Looking for a quick and easy way to see downtown Chicago’s top sights? Let InstaGreeter take you on a free hour-long guided walk of the Chicago Loop or the Chicago Riverwalk.
Check out these free and affordable museums and attractions throughout Chicago.
Explore the famous Shedd Aquarium, see scientific discoveries at the Field Museum, take in spectacular views from the Skydeck and more! With two options to choose from and up to 9 days to enjoy, you can't go wrong.
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