affordable activities in Chicago

Living in a city is expensive so it’s always good to know of free or inexpensive things to do so you aren’t dropping $$$ everytime you leave your apartment. Make sure to save this post if you live in Chi or are visiting in the future:)

Oak Street Beach - This is my favorite beach in the city since A. it’s the closest to me and B. the views are INSANE. It’s right next to the downtown area so facing one way you have lake michigan and on the other city views. It does get busy during the summer but I’ve never had a problem finding a spot

Lincoln park zoo - Another free option! It’s open year round and will often host events such as a ‘Tacos and Tequila’ event coming up in October. It’s a favorite of mine as well to go on walks and since it’s large, you get more steps in than you realize

Millennium park summer movies - Not a year round event, but during the summer every Tuesday Pitzker Pavilion hosts an outdoor movie, free of charge. I love going with a group and having a picnic while movies like Clueless are on!

Art Insitute of Chicago - Home to many famous pieces of art by artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, and Monet. During the spring and summer they have free days on Thursdays from 5PM to 8PM, otherwise entry for Chicago residents is $20

Museum of contemporary art - Has a pay what you can with a suggested payment of $3! Located right off Magnificent Mile it’s a great spot to check out if you are visiting.

Chicago River Architecture tour- on the pricier side of suggestions but I personally never turn down an invite to do it! At $42 a person, it’s a boat tour that takes you up the river while learning architectural facts along the way. It’s a great way to see the city and learn about the area around you.

Chicago RiverWalk - A free way to see the city from the river! There are plenty of bars and restaurants to stop by on the 1.25 mile stretch next to the river. I love taking people here to show them the city from a different angle since the city is located above the river, not level with it.

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