Free Ways to Explore Chicago: Your Budget-Friendly Guide to "The Windy City"

Millennium Park

I know I said that I can see why people visit Chicago year-round, but there's nothing like Chicago in the summertime. I explored Millennium Park on a sunny day and it was so calming and peaceful. Unfortunately, the area surrounding Cloud Gate (or "The Bean") is currently under construction until Spring 2024, so there is very limited access/views to the popular landmark. I saw a glimpse through a fence. Good enough for now... but I will be returning to capture my iconic photo like everyone else.

My favorite part of Millennium Park is definitely Lurie Garden. This completely free area is so beautiful, filled with all kinds of flowers, pollinators, and various seating areas. My brain generated so much serotonin walking throughout this place. I think it's such a genius idea—placing a nature-filled garden area in the middle of a metropolis so that people can have somewhere to take a break from the big city, even if they're technically still in it.

Chicago Cultural Center

Steps from Millennium Park, you'll find the Chicago Cultural Center. Allowing free entry for all, the center frequently holds events and exhibits such as dance performances and movie showings for people to enjoy. Even if there's no event going on, it's still a nice building to explore because of its unique architecture—something I can say about most buildings in Chicago.

Lincoln Park Zoo

For my animal lovers, the Lincoln Park Zoo is huge and has so many different furry friends to view. Completely free and fun for all ages, take a stroll through the zoo to not only smile at the sight of the lions, zebras, monkeys, and more, but also learn a lot of information you probably didn't know before.

Chicago Beaches

If visiting during the summer, it's a great time for a beach day. I know—Chicago isn't exactly the first place you think of when you want to spend a day playing in the sand. However, Chicago has plenty of free beaches like North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, Loyola Beach, and more. Grab your favorite swimsuit for some fun in the sun!

Chicago Riverwalk

Looking to take a walk with some beautiful scenery? Walk the Riverwalk. Here you'll find people grabbing a bite to eat, going for a jog, or maybe even scheduling a day out on the water for an Architecture Boat Tour (which isn't free, but I highly recommend doing one—especially at night!).

Museums

This one is a bit tricky—because some museums are free for all, all the time, some have select free days, and some have free days for Illinois residents only. I visited The Museum of Contemporary Art during my trip, which is free for Illinois residents on Tuesdays (out of-state visitors like me have to pay $22 for entry). Another one I had on my radar but didn't get a chance to visit was The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center (free on Wednesdays). Some museums you can visit for free regardless of where you live are The Museum of Contemporary Photography, The National Museum of Mexican Art, Hyde Park Art Center, and more.

Art on the Mart

At varying times throughout the year, enjoy the sight of the largest digital art projection in the world, located at the Chicago Riverwalk. Each season, the artwork changes and can be viewed after dusk. I was able to catch a glimpse of the show while on my 7pm architecture boat tour, and it's definitely worth checking out!

Navy Pier

Home to the Centennial Wheel, taking a walk through Navy Pier is gorgeous at night. Seeing the city all lit up is breathtaking, and I will never get over the beauty that is the buildings of Chicago! Enjoy shopping, restaurants, and other attractions, or just take in the views if you'd like to keep it a free activity.