Top 10 Free Chicago Summer Activities

It is easy to spend money in the big city – restaurants, museum admission, concerts, etc.  But, if you need to save the dollar bills and still want to experience the best of Chicago there are plenty of great things to do.  Here are 10 completely free highlights of Chicago that are perfect for the upcoming summer months.

1. Lincoln Park Zoo

Situated right in beautiful Lincoln Park just steps from the shores of Lake Michigan, the Lincoln park Zoo is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon with the whole family. This is a natural oasis with the city as a back drop that is completely free all the time.  Bring a picnic and spread out in the spacious gardens of the zoo.

Photo Courtesy of soumit

2. Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Center is a beautiful landmark building situated in the heart of downtown on Michigan Avenue. Hundreds of visitors come to the center every day for its free music, dance and theater events, as well as lectures, exhibits, and family events.

3. Millennium Park & Grant Park

No Chicago stay is complete without a visit to the beautiful downtown parks that are completely open and free to the public. Wander through the parks, marvel at Cloud Gate, and take in many of the free concerts at Millennium Park, as well as the free outdoor films at Grant Park.

4. Festivals/Concerts

Many of Chicago’s best festivals are completely free, especially in the summer months. Some of the highlights are the Chicago Blues Festival, Chicago SummerDance Festival, Chicago Pride Parade, the Air & Water Show, and the Chicago Jazz Festival. Visit Metromix Chicago for Festival listings and details.

5. Free Museum Days

Many of Chicago’s finest museums either offer free admission or have specific free days. Museums offering free admission include the National Museum of Mexican Art, Museum of Contemporary Photography, and the Smart Museum of Art. The Art Institute offers free admission Thursday from 5-8pm, the Museum of Contemporary Art on Tuesdays, the Chicago History Museum of Mondays, and many others with varying dates.

6. Chicago Beaches

One of the most spectacular parts of Chicago are its sandy beaches that make being in the Midwest during the summer months a bit unbelievable. Seriously, it does not feel like the Midwest. Foster, North Ave., and Oak Street beaches are local favorites worth checking out.

7. Navy Pier

Billed as a Chicago’s lakefront playground, this free historical Chicago landmark is perfect for kids, particularly the Chicago Children’s Museum that has varying free times. Make sure to take a ride on the 15-story Ferris wheel.

Photo courtesy of Willowbrook Hotels

8. Garfield Park Conservatory

An absolute Chicago gem, the Garfield Park Conservatory, one of the best conservatories in the country. Take in the natural wonder in six beautiful greenhouses. Enjoy the Spring Flower Show through the end of May, as well as other free exhibits in the two great halls.

9. Harold Washington Library

This Chicago Public Library is a great place to study and take a few quiet moments among a great architectural setting. Many events and lectures take place at this location as well.

10. Chicago ArchiCenter

Chicago’s fantastic skyline is comprised of amazing architectural genius. To learn more about the architecture and its history a visit to the Chicago ArchiCenter is a must, with many of exhibitions, family, and adult programs free to the public. The cost of tours varies.

[Photo Courtesy of Pictophile]