You don’t have to spend a fortune to have a blast in the Windy City. Our team of thrifty experts have curated a list of cheap, or better yet, FREE places to visit that will leave you with lasting memories and won’t break the bank.
FREE
Harold Washington Library
Escape the rain with a good book under the Winter Garden
Lincoln Park Zoo
This 35-acre zoo is one of the oldest in the country – reservations required
garfield park conservatory
This landscape under glass features thousands of beautiful and unique plant species
Millennium Park
Chicago’s motto, urbs in horto “city in a garden” is personified at this lakefront crown jewel
Michigan Avenue
Window shopping up and down the Mag-Mile is a great way to spend a few hours
Navy Pier
Chicago’s lakefront treasure is where you will find restaurants, rides and much more
Chicago Architecture Center
Complimentary admission to the center is included with all walking, bus or ‘L tours and reduced with boat tour tickets
Riverwalk
Take a walk at the rivers edge and experience the majesty of Chicago’s architecture and history
Things to do
city mini golf
This 18-hole miniature golf course, located in beautiful Maggie Daley Park, features unique Chicago-themed obstacles throughout the course – all for $12!
shoreline water taxi
Transportation and sightseeing all rolled up in one fun, affordable ride
Eats
the French Market
Head to the Ogilvie Transportation Center for a taste of Chicago’s first “food hall” featuring over 15 vendors with cuisines from around the world
Billy Goat Tavern
The Curse might be broken but the Goat still offers it’s famous burgers and chips
Cafecito
Sit back, relax and take in the sounds and aromas of Latin America cuisine
La Scarola
A hidden gem with delicious Italian cuisine set amidst photos of celebrity patrons
Tango Sur
Nobody will leave hungry, or broke, at this Wrigleyville Argentinian steakhouse
Parson's Chicken and Fish
This Logan Square destination feeds hungry hipsters incredible fried chicken
Ricobene's
A long-standing family run pizza and pasta joint known for their breaded steak sandwich
Shopping
wolff's flea market
Every Sunday, savvy shoppers head to this incredible open-air market featuring hundreds of unique vendors where deals abound
Fashion Outlets of Chicago
It’s worth the trip considering customers can browse shops like Gucci, Prada and Tory Burch
Nakamol
This boutique offers unique, hand crafted jewlery at very un-Michigan Avenue prices
P.O.S.H.
A stylish store that features flea market and vintage goods at prices that will make you smile
howard frum jewelers
Featuring Chicago’s largest selection of fine pre-owned watches and jewelry