Chicago is a bustling city with a lot to see and do. From the Sears Tower to Millennium Park, there is something for everyone in the Windy City.
But you don’t have to break the bank to experience all that the city has to offer. There are plenty of free attractions, like the public art installations in Millennium Park or the Lincoln Park Zoo.
And if you’re looking for something to do at night, there are plenty of free concerts and shows to enjoy.
With a little bit of planning, you can easily find free or cheap activities that will help you make the most of your time in Chicago.
What to do in Chicago for free?
Chicago is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. However, it can be easy to get caught up in the high costs of attractions and activities.
Luckily, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the Windy City without breaking the bank, and here is a list of our top free things to do:
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Take a stroll through Millennium Park.
Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s easy to see why. Located at 201 E Randolph St, it attracts visitors from all over the world.
The park is home to a wide variety of attractions, including the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, the sprawling Wrigley Field, and the beautiful Lurie Garden.
You can enjoy a wide range of activities in the park, from cycling and rollerblading to picnicking and birdwatching.
You can also enjoy stunning views of Lake Michigan and the skyline.
In addition to its many sights, Millennium Park also offers a variety of activities, such as concerts, films, and public art installations.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or a place to be entertained, Millennium Park is sure to have something for you.
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Relax by Lake Michigan.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, Chicago’s Lake Michigan is the perfect spot.
The lake shore has many parks and beaches where you can go swimming, sunbathe, and have a picnic area.
In addition, the lake is a popular destination for boaters, fishermen, and nature lovers.
There are numerous restaurants and cafes along the lakefront that offer a perfect place to enjoy a meal or snack.
Best of all, the Lake Michigan Chicago shoreline is easily accessible by public transportation, making it the perfect destination for a day trip.
With its clean, crisp air and endless supply of fresh water, this place is the perfect place to relax and forget about the stresses of city life.
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Explore the Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in America, and it is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Chicago.
Situated on 2001 N Clark St, the zoo offers a wide range of exhibits, educational programs for both children and adults, and special events.
Visitors can see animals from all over the world, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and penguins.
You can explore the park on foot or take part in guided tours to get a closer look at some of your favorite animals.
In addition to its animal exhibits, the zoo also features a botanical garden, a historic carousel, and a playground.
With so much to explore, the Lincoln Park Zoo is a great destination for families and nature-lovers alike.
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Have a picnic at Grant Park.
There’s something special about picnicking in the park. Maybe it’s the sun shining down on you, or the sound of children playing in the distance.
Whatever it is, picnicking is a great way to enjoy a meal outdoors. And there’s no better place to picnic than Grant Park.
Located at 337 E Randolph St, Grant Park is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Millennium Park and Buckingham Fountain.
But it’s also a great place to relax and enjoy a meal. With its sprawling lawns and scenic views, Grant Park is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a picnic lunch with friends or family.
The park also hosts a number of annual events, such as the Taste of Chicago and the Chicago Marathon.
So next time you’re looking for a place to have a picnic, be sure to head to Grant Park.
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Learn about culture at Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum.
The Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum is one of the most important cultural resources in Chicago.
Located at 1852 W 19th St, the museum has been dedicated to preserving and promoting Mexican art, culture, and history since 1982.
Inside the museum, you can explore over 8,000 pieces of artwork from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary paintings.
On top of exploring its vast collection of artwork, visitors can also take part in educational programs such as lectures, workshops and film screenings.
Visiting the Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum is an excellent way to learn more about Mexican culture and appreciate a different type of art form.
So if you’re looking for something a bit out of the ordinary, be sure to check this museum.
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Admire the architecture of the Riverwalk.
The Chicago Riverwalk is a stunning showcase of the city’s architectural history and one of its most iconic landmarks.
Stretching for more than two miles along the banks of the Chicago River, this pedestrian-friendly promenade offers spectacular views of some of the city’s most famous buildings, including the Wrigley Building, the Tribune Tower, and Willis Tower.
As you stroll along the riverwalk, there are plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat or just sit and admire the beauty of downtown Chicago.
It is a popular destination for downtown workers and residents, as well as visitors to the city.
The Riverwalk offers a variety of activities and attractions, including restaurants, shops, art galleries, and public parks.
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Visit the Smart Museum of Art.
The Smart Museum of Art is a great destination for both art lovers and history buffs alike. It’s one of the premier art museums in the city of Chicago.
The museum was founded in 1974 and is named after its founder, David Smart.
Located at 5550 S Greenwood Ave, the museum has an extensive collection of over 15,000 objects from various time periods and cultures.
Visitors can explore both permanent and temporary exhibitions that feature everything from ancient artifacts to modern works.
The museum also hosts public events such as lectures, workshops, film screenings, concerts, and family-friendly activities.
So if you’re looking for a place to learn about art and culture while having fun at the same time, be sure to visit the Smart Museum of Art.
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Swim at Oak Street Beach.
Oak Street Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Chicago. Located in the heart of the city, it offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.
The beach has a large, shallow area that is great for swimming, sunbathing and playing beach volleyball. In addition, there are plenty of places to rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards as well as areas to have picnics or relax with friends.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food and drink options, as well as plenty of activities for kids.
It also hosts a number of special events throughout the year such as outdoor concerts, festivals and even an annual airshow!
So if you’re looking for a fun way to beat the summer heat, be sure to head over to Oak Street Beach.
Why do people like to visit Chicago?
Chicago is a beautiful city with a lot to offer tourists. The skyline is breathtaking, the food is delicious, and the people are friendly.
There is also a lot to do in Chicago, from visiting museums and art galleries to taking an architectural river cruise or enjoying the nightlife.
No matter what your interests are, you can find something to enjoy in Chicago.
Let’s not forget about the shopping. From luxury boutiques to bargain shops, there is sure to be something for everyone in Chicago.
And if you’re looking for some rest and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you can always take a stroll along Lake Michigan.
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