From beach days and lakefront strolls to music festivals and neighborhood block parties, there’s never a dull moment in Summertime Chi. But if you’re looking to stretch your dollars, we’ve got you covered.
We’ve rounded up 15 completely FREE things to do in the city this summer. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or exploring a new neighborhood, these experiences will help you make the most of Summertime Chi without spending a dime.
Adler Planetarium
- Details: Tour the night sky on select Wednesdays with the Adler Planetarium’s Theaters Manager Nick.
- Free Days: The Adler Planetarium is free for Illinois residents (with proof of residency) every Wednesday evening from 4:00 pm–10:00 pm.
- Make a Reservation: Adler Planetarium
Art Institute Chicago
- Details: Illinois residents can enjoy free admission to the Art Institute of Chicago every Thursday evening from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., now through September 25.
- Make a Reservation: Art Institute Chicago
Chicago Cultural Center
- Details: Free art exhibits, performances, and stunning architecture including the world’s largest Tiffany stained-glass dome.
- Website: Chicago Cultural Center
Chicago Greeter Visits
- Details: A local greeter will guide you on a tour of the Chicago neighborhood of your choice. Tours typically last two to four hours and can accommodate up to six guests.
- Make a reservation: Chicago Greeter
Chicago Summer Dance
- Details: From now until September (on select dates), you can enjoy free outdoor dance and movement lessons, no matter your skill level. These sessions are led by professional instructors and are followed by music and social dancing.
- Website: Chicago Summer Dance
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
- Details: Explore the Chicago 1919 Race Riot and how Harold Washington became the first elected African American Mayor of Chicago in 1983. Free admission every Wednesday with online reservation.
- Make a Reservation: DuSable Black History Museum
InstaGreeter Downtown Walks
- Details: See downtown Chicago’s top sights on a free hour-long guided walk with an InstaGreeter. You do not need to register in advance.
- Website: InstaGreeter walks
Millennium Park Summer Film Series
- Details: Watch free movies against the city’s iconic skyline on Tuesdays from July 1st – Aug 26th.
- Website: Summer Film Series
Navy Pier Fireworks
- Details: Free fireworks show on Wednesday and Saturday nights from May 24th – August 30th.
- Website: Navy Pier Fireworks
Neighborhood Pop-Up Walks
- Details: Enjoy free walks to neighborhoods across the city all summer long. Check the website regularly for updates.
- Website: Chicago Greeter
Shedd Aquarium
- Details: Discover the wonder of the aquatic animal world this summer during one of Illinois Free Resident Days. Advance reservations are required.
- Free Days: Tuesday evenings from 5pm-9pm on the following days: June 3, 10, 17, 24 |July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 |August 5, 12, 19, 26.
- Website: Shedd Aquarium
Artini @ Gallery Guichard
- Details: Come and be a part of Artini, a captivating event filled with fine art, live music and DJ beats.
- Free Days: 2nd Thursdays on the following days: June 12, July 10, August 14, October 10, November 14
- Reserve Your Spot: Gallery Guichard
Blues in the Parks
- Details: Join this collective of blues enthusiasts who love Chicago Blues and strive to keep its legacy flowing throughout the city and beyond.
- Free Days: July 17, Aug 15, Aug 21
- Website: Chicago Blues Revival
Bronzeville Art District Trolley Tour 2025
- Details: Hop on hop off the trolley and explore Bronzeville’s vibrant art scene in 2024.
- Free Days: June 20, Aug 15
- Website: Trolley Tour
Bronzeville Smooth Jazz Festival CarrCare Charity Pop-UP
- Details: Meet at the Bronzeville Smooth Jazz Festival CarrCARE Charity Pop-Up for a day of music, health education, and supporting a great cause!
- Free Days: Aug 2
- Website: Bronzeville Smooth Jazz Festival
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