7 Free Things to Do in Chicago
Chicago can be a pricey city to explore. However, if you know where to go you can take advantage of the outstanding parks and museums Chicago has to offer. Rest assured, we have assembled a list of Chicago attractions with special information on how to see Chicago for free. The list below shares information on Chicago attractions, museums, and parks. Some of the venues are free for Illinois residents all year round!
Note: Many of the museums require proof of Illinois residency to be eligible for free admission days. Please visit individual museum websites for more information
1. Adler Planetarium
Free general admission for Illinois residents
- June 4, 5, 6, 10, 11 and 12
- September 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25
- October 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 and 30
- November 5, 6, 12 and 13
- February 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25
1300 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605 adlerplanetarium.org
2. Art Institute of Chicago (AIC)
The Art Institute of Chicago offers free admission to Illinois residents the first and second Wednesday of every month. In addition, residents are offered free entry every Thursday from 5 pm to 8 pm. Children under the age of 14 are always free. For more information on upcoming exhibitions and events visit the Art Institute’s official website.
111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603 artic.edu
3. Museum of Science and Industry (MSI)
The Museum of Science and Industry is the first museum to feature interactive exhibits in North America. Notable features include the Coal Mine and the Omnimax theater. Illinois residents receive free entry on the following dates in 2014.
- May 5
- June 1-6
- September 8-12, 15-19, 22-26, 29
- October 6, 7
- November 3
- December 8
5700 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL 60637 https://www.msichicago.org
FREE YEAR ROUND
4. Chicago Cultural Center
Chicago cultural center is a historical landmark that offers visitors free programs year-round. Events are extensive, including concerts, art exhibitions, dances, seminars, and film screenings. For more information check the Chicago Cultural Centers website.
78 E Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
5. Lincoln Park Zoo
Regarded as one of the nation’s top zoos, Lincoln Park zoo allows visitors to see wildlife from all over the world. Home to over 230 species of animals, the zoo provides a unique experience is one of a few free zoos in the U.S.
2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614 lpzoo.org
6. Millennium Park
Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s most popular tourist attractions. Many commemorate their visit to Chicago by taking pictures at the Cloud Gate, a shiny, mirror-like sculpture created by artist Anish Kapoor. Other noteworthy areas of the park include the magnificent Jay-Pritzker Pavilion and the Lurie Garden.
201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602 millenniumpark.org
7. Navy Pier
Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s premier attractions. The Pier offers a range of family-friendly activities and events as well as free admission to the pier’s boardwalk. The Smith Museum of Stained Glass located inside Navy Pier is free year long.
600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 navypier.com
