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The windy city is a diverse place that offers a multitude of activities for all that live there and those who visit. The list is super long, so we narrowed it down to our top 10 favorites. If we missed your favorite free ‘thing to do’ in Chicago, add yours in the comments at the end.

Free in Chicago #1: Explore the Chicago River Walk

The 1.25-mile path is a great place to begin your Chicago adventure, as you get to experience the city’s amazing architecture as you admire the wonderful skyline. Local art, street performers and more will be at your fingertips to enjoy. The Marina and The Water Plaza are worth a look.

Free in Chicago #2: Enjoy Lincoln Park Zoo

For a fun free day visit America’s oldest free public zoo, Lincoln Park Zoo, which opened in 1868. The most loved animals include the giraffe, elephants, sea lions and the endangered Siberian tiger. It opens at 10 a.m. each day, closing times depend on the season.

2019 saw a baby boom hit the zoo as it welcomed a range of infants to the zoo, both large and small, and all very cute.

Free in Chicago #3: Visit Millennium Park

Visiting Chicago’s most popular selfie spot in Millennium Park. The 24.5-acre public space is home to the famous Cloud Gate. It is one of the most recognizable outdoor sculptures in the World. Other notable attractions of Millennium Park include the Jay Pritzker Pavilion and the Crown Fountain.

In summer, Millennium Park hosts free movies!

Free in Chicago #4: Tour The Clarke House Museum

You can take a free tour of the oldest house in Chicago! The Greek Revival-style home was built in 1836 and was owned by hardware businessman Henry B. Clarke and his family. Interestingly, the house has been moved twice!

You can discover more fascinating tales of Chicago’s history and the family on the guided tours at the Clarke House Museum, which take place on Wednesday, Fridays, and Saturdays at 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Free in Chicago #5: Admire Street Art

The 16^th Street Murals have a collection of intricate artworks for you to admire without spending a penny. The unique outdoor gallery stretches from Western Avenue to the Chicago River. The most famous painting is the severed possum. Let us know what you think of 16^th Street.

If you love visiting cultural attractions for free check out our other Free Travel Guides to London, Paris, Orlando and Las Vegas.

Free in Chicago #6: Be Educated and Entertained at a Museum

Chicago has some very special museums which cannot be found anywhere else in the USA or the World. For example, the Busy Beaver Button Museum, which exhibits more than 9,000 buttons/pins/badges along with vintage adverts, political campaigns and sporting memorabilia all with a Chicago focus. It’s open Monday – Friday from 10a.m. to 4p.m.

An unmissable museum is the Chicago History Museum. If you live in Illinois, this museum is free to enter every Tuesday, from 12:30 – 9 p.m. Also, children aged 18 and under, Active Duty Military, and Veterans can enter for free.

Other museums offer various FREE days throughout the year. Visit the websites or join newsletters to not miss out of these days.

Free in Chicago #7: Enjoy a Refreshing Brew

The largest craft brewery in Chicago is Lagunitas Brewing Company. If you’re a buddying brewer or love tasting new craft beers, this should be a stop on your Chicago itinerary.

You can take a free tour and enjoy a complimentary beer tasting from:

• Monday – Tuesday at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
• Wednesday – Sunday at 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Two Brothers Brewery also offers a free “behind the scenes” look at how their beer is made. Tours are only available on Saturdays and Sundays at various times.

Related: Beer Lovers Need to Visit Chicago 

Free in Chicago #8: Relax at North Avenue Beach

When the weather permits a beach trip, head to North Avenue Beach, close to Lincoln Park. July and August are ideal sunbathing weather. But, it’s also very pretty in the spring and fall.

 

Free in Chicago #9: Visit Garfield Park Conservatory

Green fingers everywhere flock to the gorgeous Garfield Park Conservatory, which has 10 acres of outdoor gardens and 2 acres under the clear glass roof of the conservatory. Its open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with extended hours on Wednesdays.

Outdoors you’ll see a variety of gardens including a City Garden, a Play & Grow Garden and a Sensory Garden. Indoor you’ll enjoy:

• Exploring the warm Palm House, home to many tropical plants and trees
• Walking through the tranquil fern room, which also has an indoor lagoon
• Visiting the Aroid House, with a “Persian Pool” and large yellow lily pads
• And more!

Free in Chicago #10: Visit Chicago Cultural Center

Built-in 1893, the Chicago Cultural Center is home to many great art exhibitions, film screenings, and educational lectures. You can take a free tour at 1:15 pm, Wednesday-Saturday. Tour places are limited to 20, so get there early to avoid disappointment. One of the highlights is the colorful Tiffany stain-glass dome.

To keep up to date with what’s happening in Chicago, we suggest following @FreeChicago on Twitter, as they provide the latest free events and coupons to help save you money. TimeOut Chicago is also a great source.