7 Free Activities You Should Try in Chicago Today – Chicago Free Travel Guide

Are you planning a trip to Chicago, Illinois but hesitant because the prices are starting to add up? Planning a trip to Chicago can get expensive, but not everything on your itinerary has to be expensive and break the bank in order for you to still have a great time while here. Some of my favorite things to do around the Chicago are free and I’m hoping listing them may inspire you to check them out on your next trip. Sprinkling some free admission events and low cost activities can allow you to stretch your dollar during your trip in Chicago, Illinois. Here are 7 totally. free things to do in Chicago today & you can watch my vlog that shares other fun and free activities around Chicago, Illinois:

1. Take a walk around (any of Chicago’s hundreds of parks) like Humboldt Park

Chicago boasts over 500 parks, enough to explore two each weekend and still not cover them all in a year. Personally, Humboldt Park holds a special place in my heart since I grew up nearby – so of course I feel obligated to recommend it to you. It’s not just its lush greenery that captivates me, but also the joy of grabbing a meal from a local Puerto Rican eatery and gorgeous nature. The park offers a plethora of activities, from swan boat rides and baseball games to serene picnics under the shade of its abundant trees, providing ample space to relax without the sweltering sun.

2. Hike the trail near Albany Park at Riverbank Neighbors.

I’ve visited Riverbank Neighbors Park a few times, and each visit has been a delight. In a reel I created about the park, I touched on its history, but here’s the full story: Riverbank Neighbors Park is entirely the work of local residents!

What used to be a trash-filled space, where litter from the North Branch of the Chicago River would accumulate, has been transformed into a beautiful park. The neighbors banded together, cleaned up the area, planted native Illinois species, and created a scenic trail for everyone to enjoy. It’s truly one of the most inspiring community projects I’ve seen, and I highly recommend you visit and see it for yourself!

3. Take in Chicago’s gorgeous skyline from Lincoln Park.

What’s your favorite spot to view the Chicago skyline? No visit to the city is complete without capturing that iconic skyline photo. My top pick is the view from the bridge over South Pond in Lincoln Park. It’s a perfect spot to snap a picture with the skyline in the background, minus the crowds. Afterward, you can stroll through the beautiful park for a few hours, making it an ideal location for those Instagram-worthy shots and some peaceful time in nature.

4. Also, consider checking out the trails near LP.

Near the bridge and Lincoln Park Zoo, you’ll find trails surrounded by captivating Illinois native plants. What I love most about these trails is how they disperse the crowds from the zoo, creating a more intimate atmosphere & silencing some of the hustle and bustle of the city living. I often bring my camera along to capture close-up footage of the seasonal local plants—it’s one of my favorite ways to enjoy the space, especially as an introvert.

5. Bring a camera for street art!

One of my favorite activities is photographing street art! These bursts of color can transform the dullest city corners into something bright and beautiful, which is why I love capturing them. I recently explored the Rogers Park area and highlighted some of my favorite murals (of course I included the addresses & artist information for you!). Click this post to see all the addresses of those spots.