1. Lincoln Park Zoo
One of the free things to do in Chicago is visit Lincoln Park Zoo.
Founded in 1868, the Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in North America. Despite its age, the zoo has maintained a modern approach to animal care and exhibits.
Housing a diverse collection of species, the zoo gives visitors an opportunity to see animals from around the globe, including African penguins, Amur leopards, and black rhinoceros, among others. It is home to almost 200 species of animals and is open every day.
The zoo also offers various educational programs and special events throughout the year.
The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the only zoos in the country with free admission.
Location: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
2. Lincoln Park Conservatory
This Victorian Era greenhouse was built in the late 19th century. The conservatory is home to exotic plants from around the world.
The conservatory consists of four display houses: the Palm House, Fern Room, Orchid House, and Show House, which hosts changing seasonal exhibits. The historic nature of the building and the botanical collection provides a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
While the conservatory is free, they require you to get a ticket ahead of time – during Covid, they’re limiting admission and doing timed visits.
Location: 2391 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614
3. Millennium Park
Another free thing to do in Chicago is going to the Millennium Park. Opened in 2004, Millennium Park quickly became a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Known for its unique blend of art, architecture, and landscaping. It is home to the famous “Bean” (actually named Cloud Gate) by Anish Kapoor.
The park is also home to the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, an outdoor concert venue designed by Frank Gehry. It’s a large performance area where free concerts and movies are frequently played.
Location: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
4. Navy Pier
A 3,300-foot-long pier on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan. While there are plenty of opportunities to spend money at Navy Pier, entrance into the park is free.
Navy Pier is home to a food court/shopping area, the famous Ferris wheel, rooftop bars, frequent fireworks shows, river cruises, etc. It really is magical just to take a stroll and take in all that Navy Pier has to offer.
The Centennial Wheel, an iconic Ferris wheel offering stunning views of the city, is a highlight of the Pier.
Location: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
5. Garfield Park Conservatory
Chicago’s Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest botanical gardens in the country.
It is often referred to as “landscape art under glass”. There are more than 1,000 plant species spread across 10 acres of gardens and half a dozen display houses!
There are plant species from around the world, including ferns, cacti, palm trees, and aroids.
Location: 300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60624
6. Chicago Riverwalk
It used to be that the only way to see the Chicago River was by paying for a riverboat cruise. That’s not the case anymore, thanks to the Chicago Riverwalk!
This 1.25-mile path now allows you to explore the waterfront without paying anything at all. This pedestrian trail along the south bank of the Chicago River in the heart of the city offers spectacular views of the urban landscape, including skyscrapers and moving bridges.
There are, of course, plenty of shops and restaurants, but those are optional. Along the way, visitors can find public art installations, boat rentals, eateries, and bars.
Pro tip: try to catch the bridge being raised for a barge coming through! It’s so cool to watch! I think this is one of the best free things to do in Chicago.
7. Lakefront Trail
Similar to the Riverwalk, there is a lakefront trail that runs along the Chicago side of Lake Michigan. It is free and open to the public and houses multiple parks, beaches, gardens, etc.
An 18.5-mile-long path located along the western shore of Lake Michigan, the Lakefront Trail provides stunning views of the lake and the Chicago skyline.
This trail offers opportunities for walking, running, cycling, and even bird watching.
8. Artwork and Murals
Chicago is home to some of the best artwork! This includes sculptures, mosaics, and large-scale murals.
Explore the city’s vibrant arts scene and find your favorite by foot or by public transportation – mine is the “Greetings From Chicago” postcard mural in Logan Square located at 2226 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647.
9. The Magnificent Mile
It’s fun to window shop on the Magnificent Mile!
This stretch of North Michigan Avenue is known for its luxury boutiques, high-end department stores, and large-scale shopping centers like Water Tower Place. The district also includes notable architecture, such as the historic Water Tower and the John Hancock Center.
Obviously, there are plenty of opportunities to spend money, but you could spend a whole afternoon just browsing and taking in all the city has to offer. There are lots of historic buildings to see and learn about, AND the world’s largest Starbucks is there to keep you energized!
10. Explore Wrigleyville
Located in the Lakeview neighborhood, Wrigleyville is famous for its lively atmosphere, especially on game days for the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field.
Even if you don’t feel like paying for a ticket to see the Chicago Cubs play, it still is worth the experience to go walk around and soak up the history! There are a multitude of restaurants and shops, and plenty of stops along the way to learn about the history of one of the first professional teams in MLB history.
The area is filled with sports bars, casual dining spots, and iconic Chicago establishments like The Cubby Bear and Murphy’s Bleachers. The recently developed Gallagher Way offers a communal area with food options, special events, and even an ice rink in winter.
There are tons more free museums and art galleries in Chicago that could fill up an entire weekend, but this is a good place to start! I hope you have an amazing weekend!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lincoln Park Zoo admission free every day?
Absolutely! Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the few zoos in the country that offers free admission every single day. It’s open all year round for you to enjoy.
Do I need a ticket to enter Lincoln Park Conservatory?
The Lincoln Park Conservatory is free, but you’ll need to grab a ticket ahead of time due to visitor limitations during Covid times. You can schedule your visit online.
What’s there to see at Millennium Park?
Millennium Park is home to several iconic Chicago attractions. This includes the famous “Bean” sculpture, known as Cloud Gate, and a large performance area where you can often catch free concerts and movie screenings.
Can I walk along the Chicago River without paying for a cruise?
Absolutely! The Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile path that lets you explore the riverfront without paying a cent. You can stroll, shop, dine, or just enjoy the view.
What can I do on the Magnificent Mile?
The Magnificent Mile is perfect for window shopping. You’ll find a multitude of stores and historic buildings, including the world’s largest Starbucks! It’s a great place to explore and soak up the city vibe.
What is there to do in Wrigleyville if I’m not watching a Cubs game?
Wrigleyville offers a plethora of things to do besides watching a game. There are many restaurants, shops, and historic landmarks that make this area a worthwhile visit, even if there’s no game on.
Are all these places family-friendly?
Absolutely! Each of the places mentioned in the blog post is suitable for visitors of all ages, making them perfect for a family day out.
Are pets allowed in these places?
It depends on the individual location’s rules and regulations. Places like Lincoln Park Zoo and the parks are generally pet-friendly, but it’s always best to check their specific guidelines online.
Are there any guided tours available at these attractions?
Many of these attractions offer guided tours, but the availability might vary. It’s best to check their official websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
