Chicago FREE Vacation Ideas

Who says a visit to the Windy City has to be expensive? Are you on a budget but want to see the city and all it has to offer? Well, you're in luck. There's plenty to see and do in Chicago even if your funds are limited. As you travel around the city and meet people, you're sure to find many more attractions and events that you can enjoy at little or no expense. Here are just a few free ideas to get you started.

  • Have fun at the Chicago Beaches, open to the public - free. Call 312-742-3224 or 312-742-7529 for different locations.
  • Concerts in the Parks, including the Annual Blues Festival in June at Grant Park
  • Free movies in Grant Park on Tuesday nights
  • Bird Watching in all the local parks, a popular pastime
  • Slow down and enjoy the scenery by biking along Lake Michigan
  • Farmer's Markets, usually from May through October in over 20 neighborhoods throughout the city
  • Get tickets to see Oprah Winfrey's show. Call 312-591-9222
  • Lincoln Park Zoo, always fun for the whole family
  • Lincoln Park Conservatory, for the flower-lover in you
  • View the heavens at Dearborn Observatory on the Evanston Campus of Northwestern University. Call for times and more information 847-491-7650
  • Take a free tour with the Chicago Greeters, local volunteers who are knowledgeable in the area and guide you around the city for 2 to 4 hours on foot or by public transportation. A good way to explore neighborhoods and places of interest. Call 312-744-8000
  • Ride the free Trolley to get around town and sightsee
  • Catch the Light Show at Buckingham Fountains in Grant Park every night all summer.
  • Try to catch one of the many parades in the city at different times throughout the year
  • Visit the Chicago Botanical Gardens, 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe (20 minutes north of Chicago)
  • Navy Pier, Wednesday night fireworks during the summer until Labor Day
We'd like to offer you a few suggestions for free kids meals in the Chicago area. There are many more and certainly worth your while to inquire as you plan your trip. However, you should check age restrictions (small children usually are free, older children, half price). Also, check days and times of free children's meals as they differ throughout the city.

  • Holiday Inn, Chicago Mart Plaza
  • Rainforest CafĂ©, Clark Street
  • The Drake, E. Walton Place
  • Geneva Restaurant in the Marriott Hotel, Michigan Avenue
  • Rockstar Dogs, No. Ashland Avenue
  • Four Seasons Hotel, Delaware Place

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