free things to do in the city of chicago

Chicago is a world-class city with a wide range of free activities to enjoy. Here are some free things to do in the city of Chicago:

1. Millennium Park: Explore iconic landmarks like the "Cloud Gate" sculpture (known as "The Bean"), the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and the Lurie Garden.
2. Lincoln Park Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in the country, offering free admission 365 days a year.
3. Navy Pier: This lakefront attraction offers free admission, although some activities may have a fee. Take a stroll along the pier, visit the Crystal Gardens, and enjoy the street performers.
4. The 606: An elevated trail and park system built on a former rail line, offering a unique perspective on the city.
5. Chicago Riverwalk: Take a stroll along the river and enjoy the city’s architecture, public art, and boat traffic.
6. Maggie Daley Park: A downtown park featuring a rock climbing wall, ice skating rink, and a playground.
7. The Field Museum’s Free Days: The Field Museum offers free admission on certain days throughout the year, sponsored by various organizations.
8. Chicago Cultural Center: A beautiful building with free exhibitions, concerts, and events.
9. Wrigley Field’s Gallagher Way: Even if you’re not attending a Cubs game, you can still visit the park’s outdoor plaza, which offers free events and activities.
10. Chicago’s Beaches: Chicago has several beautiful beaches along Lake Michigan, such as North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, and Montrose Beach.
11. The Chicago Lakefront Trail: A 18.5-mile path along the lakefront, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.
12. Free Outdoor Concerts and Movies: During the summer, many parks in Chicago offer free outdoor concerts and movie screenings.
13. The National Museum of Mexican Art: The only museum in the United States exclusively devoted to Mexican art and culture, offering free admission.
14. The DuSable Museum of African American History: A museum showcasing African American history, art, and culture, offering free admission on certain days.
15. Chicago’s Street Art: Explore the city’s vibrant street art scene in neighborhoods like Wicker Park, Bucktown, and Pilsen.
16. The Chicago Botanic Garden: While not entirely free, the garden offers free admission on certain days and at specific times.
17. The Museum of Contemporary Art’s Free Tuesdays: The MCA offers free admission on Tuesdays for Illinois residents.
18. The Art Institute of Chicago’s Free Thursdays: The Art Institute offers free admission on Thursdays for Illinois residents.
19. Chicago’s Farmers Markets: Many neighborhoods in Chicago have weekly farmers markets during the warmer months, offering free samples and a taste of local produce.
20. The Chicago Architecture River Cruise’s Free Tours: While not entirely free, the Chicago Architecture River Cruise offers free tours on certain days and at specific times.

Please note that some of these attractions may have specific rules or restrictions, so it’s always a good idea to check their websites or call ahead to confirm.