Travel is often considered costly, especially if you are planning to visit large western cities. You may be concerned about the cost of your trip to the ‘Second City’ in the United States.
There are many amazing things that you can do in Windy City, even if you don’t have a lot of money. There are plenty of activities and attractions that don’t cost anything, whether you’re a lover of culture, arts, sports, or culture.
Does a secret design museum pique your interest? What about a music festival? Are you interested in exploring a historical or scenic bar? Chicago offers a lot without spending a dime. These are the top 50 free things to do in Chicago. One of these will even pay $100.
1. To see the sunrise, head to Promontory Point. Locals love this manufactured island on Lake Michigan, South Chicago’s 55th Street. It even has a swimming pool!
2. Columbia College Chicago’s flagship museum is the Museum of Contemporary Photography. In the 1980s, they began collecting work for their permanent collection. They now have more than 15,000 photographic pieces.
3. The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the most important in the United States. You’ll find 2 acres of public greenhouse space and 10 acres worth of public gardens for you to explore. All of this is in Chicago’s most prestigious Westside park.
4. Stingo is South Chicago’s most popular game. This game is held at Bernice’s Tavern every Wednesday at 9 pm. It’s identical to Bingo, but you’ll have to shout the b-word to be asked to hit bricks. You will need to pay for the beers, but the game board can be had at no cost.
5. The Smart Museum of Art is part of the University of Chicago. This museum will have more innovative and eclectic art than your average contemporary art museum.
6. The Taste of Chicago is the nation’s best food festival with hundreds of vendors. It is held every year in Millenium Park in the middle of July.
7. If you have ever wondered how a million dollars of cash looks, visit the Federal Reserve Bank Money Museum. A guided tour is available every weekday at 13:30.
8. The Chicago Jazz Festival is open to all. It is one of the most prestigious jazz festivals in the country, and it takes place every year in Millenium Park.
9. The National Cambodian Heritage Museum & Killing Fields Memorial will tell you about the history and fate of Cambodia and the Khmer Rouge.
10. Plan your trip around Chicago Kids and Kites Festival if you have children. Kites can be provided for children. There are also balloon artists and face painters. Cricket Hill hosts this event every year in May.
11. You must take a photo in front of the Chicago Theatre before you leave. The iconic neon sign at the Chicago Theatre is a landmark.
12. Although it is smaller than Garfield Park’s, the Lincoln Park Conservatory has more exotic options. It is a beautiful example of a deco-inspired public garden worth visiting.
13. Enjoy the sun at Navy Pier. This 3,300-foot-long pier is located on Lake Michigan’s shoreline and offers spectacular views of Chicago’s Harbor Lighthouse.
14. The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture provides information about the Puerto Rican community of the midwest. They frequently host free events and feature rotating exhibitions in their galleries.
15. On Tuesdays during the summer, you can enjoy a free movie on Great Lawn at Millennium Park Summer Film Series. Bring a blanket and a picnic to enjoy the movie.
