Chicago is famous for its impressive skyline and architectural innovation. Iconic buildings like the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), John Hancock Center, the historic Water Tower, and landmarks like the Chicago Tribune Tower showcase the city’s architectural diversity. And we can’t forget about the city’s culinary icon, Deep Dish Pizza.
These top features and diverse culinary scenes in the Windy City may give the impression that all attractions are expensive and dining out is costly. However, Chicago offers a wealth of affordable and free activities, making it possible to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse culinary scene on a budget.
Explore Millennium Park
Millennium Park is home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, commonly known as “The Bean.” Locals and visitors gather here to picnic in the grass, cool off in the fountain, and enjoy various events throughout the year. The park offers a near-endless list of things to see and do, catering to nature lovers, art and architecture enthusiasts, kids and families, music buffs, fitness fiends, and more.
- Cost: Free
- Website: chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/millennium_park.html
- Get more for your money: The park also hosts free concerts and movie screenings throughout the year. Check the website for more information.
Visit The Harold Washington Library Center
The Harold Washington Library Center is the central library for the Chicago Public Library System. It is located south of the Loop ‘L,’ at 400 S. State Street in Chicago. The building includes a rooftop winter garden event space. Discover this impressive library named after Chicago’s first Black mayor, featuring exhibits, reading rooms, and the beautiful Winter Garden.
- Cost: Free
- Website: chipublib.org/locations/34/
- Get more for your money: The library hosts free lectures, readings, and performances. Check the website for the calendar of events.
Eat At Pequod’s Pizza
Ranked as the #1 pizza in the country by Yelp and known for its caramelized crust, Pequod’s in Lincoln Park offers affordable lunch specials and individual slices that fit within the budget.
- Cost: Lunch specials and individual slices under $10
- Website: pequodspizza.com
- Get more for your money: Pequod’s also offers appetizers under $10, such as garlic bread, hot wings, and kids’ meals.
Plan A Date At The Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk is a multi-use public open space located on the south bank of the main branch of the Chicago River. Strolling along the riverwalk is free, and visitors can enjoy public art, scenic views, and various activities.
- Cost: Free
- Website: chicago.gov/city/en/sites/chicagoriverwalk/home.html
- Get more for your money: Enjoy a picnic with your snacks or packed meal on one of the many benches, relaxing and watching the boats go by. Check the website for more information.
Visit The Garfield Park Conservatory
Chicago’s Garfield Park Conservatory is located in an 184-acre park and is one of the nation’s largest and most stunning botanical conservatories. The park also features a swimming pool, fishing lagoon, athletic fields, and tennis courts.
- Cost: Free
- Website: garfieldconservatory.org
- Get more for your money: Garfield Park also hosts a variety of dynamic exhibits and installations from Chicago-based artists, community members, and Conservatory staff. Check the website for more information on events.
Go To Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo, also known as Lincoln Park Zoological Gardens, is a 35-acre zoo in Chicago. It was founded in 1868, making it the fourth oldest zoo in North America. It is also one of the few free-admission zoos in North America. This zoo offers free admission year-round and features various animals and beautiful landscapes.
- Cost: Free
- Website: lpzoo.org
- Get more for your money: Hundreds of plant species and gardens are also featured at the zoo. Check out the plant and gardens section for more information.
Eat At Harold’s Chicken Shack
Harold’s Chicken Shack is a popular fried chicken restaurant in Chicago, Illinois. Harold Pierce, an African-American entrepreneur, founded the original restaurant in 1950. Various locations around the city offer budget-friendly meals.
- Cost: Chicken by the piece and 4-piece wing dinners are less than $10.
- Website: haroldschickendowntown.com
- Get more for your money: Harold’s Chicken side orders are all under $10 as well.
Grab A Snack At Dat Donut
Dat Donut has been a staple in the Chatham neighborhood since 1994. The owners, Darryl and Andrea, opened their flagship location on the corner of 83rd Street and Cottage Grove Avenue. This Black-owned South Side gem is famous for its massive, affordable donuts, making it perfect for a budget-friendly breakfast or snack.
- Cost: Most menu items are $10 or less.
- Website: datdonut.com
- Get more for your money: Dat Donut also offers cinnamon rolls, apple fritters, and breakfast sandwiches for under $10.
Eat At Art Of Pizza
This spot offers a variety of pizza styles, including deep-dish, stuffed, and thin-crust. Their large and affordable slices make it a great option for budget-conscious diners.
- Cost: $5 individual pizza slices and $10 appetizers
- Website: artofpizzachicago.com/menu/pizza/
- Get more for your money: Art of Pizza also offers at least one dish on their daily specials for $10 or less.
Visit Sip & Savor Coffee Houses
Located in neighborhoods like Bronzeville and Hyde Park, Black-owned Sip & Savor offers a cozy atmosphere to enjoy delicious coffee, tea, and pastries.
- Cost: Most menu items are $10 or less.
- Website: sipandsavorchicago.com
- Get more for your money: Sip & Savor also offers bagels, cakes, and sandwiches for under $10.
Ride The Chicago Transit
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates mass transit and provides reliable and affordable transportation throughout the city. Day passes and Ventra cards offer economical options for unlimited rides on buses and trains.
- Cost: $2.25 per bus ride, $2.50 per train ride.
- Website: transitchicago.com
- Get more for your money: CTA offers day passes and Ventra tickets for $5.
Visit Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center is a landmark building operated by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. It houses the city’s official reception venue, where the Mayor has welcomed presidents, royalty, diplomats, and community leaders. You can enjoy free art exhibitions, performances, and cultural events in this stunning historic building.
- Cost: Free
- Website: chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_culturalcenter.html
- Get more for your money: The center hosts free lectures, tours, and performance residencies. Check the website for the calendar of events.
With numerous free and low-cost attractions, such as the Chicago Cultural Center and Bronzeville Historical Society, and vibrant community spaces like Sip & Savor Coffee Houses, Chicago offers a unique blend of history, art, and culture.
Affordable dining options and scenic spots like the Chicago Riverwalk and Millennium Park ensure a memorable and enriching trip without breaking the bank. Embrace Chicago’s diverse offerings and discover its vibrant Black culture on a budget-friendly vacation.