Chicago is a city that is never boring no matter the time of year. Winter is a great opportunity to get out and explore the city, with less crowds and a variety of free activities, you have the opportunity to enjoy more for less. If you’re a resident, get your ID ready, and if you’re visiting, make your way to some of these locations and use your wallet to treat yourself along the way.
Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo
One of the most popular attractions in Chicago, the Lincoln Park Zoo is a must. Some of the more interesting exhibits are the Pepper Family Wildlife Center and the Regenstein African Journey where you’ll see big cats, giraffes, rhinos, and red pandas. Watch flamingos on the lake as you walk. The Nature Boardwalk offers beautiful views of the city skyline.
The zoo also features three cafes, and for a small fee you can buy tickets for attractions such as the Gorilla Trek VR Experience, Zoo Train Adventure, or Endangered Species Carousel. If you’re looking for a fun date night on select dates the zoo does a 21+ “Adult Night Out” event, with live music, games, and mini bars.
Visit one of Chicago’s Free museum days or a completely free museum
If you’re an Illinois resident you still have to attend Free Winter Weekdays at The Art Institute of Chicago until March 14th. Admission is free for residents on Wednesdays at the Field Museum, and on select days throughout the year at the Museum of Science and Industry.
Some free museums to check out are Mindworks: The Science of Thinking and the Museum of Contemporary Photography both located in the Loop. If you are hanging out in the South side, head to Hyde Park and the Smart Museum located in The University of Chicago. The museum features collections spanning across the globe.
Do some Yoga in the Park
All throughout Chicago you can join locals and visitors alike, make new connections, and enjoy yoga. Different parks across the city have meet ups, even in the winter. Classes vary from Mommy and Me to youth, adult, women, and seniors. Check the schedule for dates and times. Not all classes are free and they do fill up quickly, so check often and sign up in advance.
Stroll along the 606
The 606 is the name of a decommissioned train system turned into a trail for walkers, runners, and bicyclists to enjoy. The weather is perfect in the cooler months on the out and back 2.7 mile trail, as it has minimal shade and can get hot in the warmer months. Walk your dog, go for a run, or just take a stroll and enjoy the artwork. Don’t want to walk the entire trail? No worries as there are many exit points along the way.
Go on tour of the Chicago Cultural Center
What makes the Chicago Cultural Center special is the architecture. This museum has two Tiffany domes, one being the largest in the world, a stunning marble staircases, and Roman arches. Visit the art galleries and sculpture gardens, see a free concert on Wednesday afternoons, or go on a docent led tour offered year round on Thursdays and Fridays at 1:15pm.
Take a walking tour of the city
Walking tours are a great way to learn the local history of the city. Free Chicago Walking tours has tours throughout the year where a guide will meet you at a specific meeting point then take you on a two hour tour of The Loop and River North neighborhoods. If you’re wanting something different, consider the Pedway’s Hidden Treasures Tour or the Chicago Crime & Gangster Tour. Gratuities are appreciated and it is recommended to tip between $15 to 20 per person..
Relax in the gardens
Chicago has several gems when it comes to gardens. Near the Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park you can find the Lurie Garden as you make your way toward Cloud Gate and the Crown Fountain. The Garden of the Phoenix, known as the Japanese Garden, is located in Jackson Park. If you visit in April, you could be lucky enough to catch the cherry blossom trees during their peak blooming period.
In the South Loop, the Chicago Women's Park and Gardens is located between the Glessner House and Widow Clarke House Museums. If you’re an Illinois resident you can enjoy the Chicago Botanic Garden on select dates and visit the Garfield Conservatory free all year.
Watch some local stand up
If you like comedy then check out Cole’s Bar in Palmer Square. On Wednesday they host a 21+ Open Mic showcase for comedians to do a short set. See a variety of upcoming talent by watching 30 to 40 comedians perform. For the gamers, you should drop in for Video Game Music night every second Monday. Maybe you just want to sit back and listen to some bands, every first and third Monday is their Open Jam session. All events are 21+ for entry.
Go ice skating
If you're in town during the winter months, you should definitely do the Skating Ribbon, located at Maggie Daley Park next to Millennium Park. Admission is free Monday to Thursday if you bring your own skates, as well and Friday and Sunday for the 11 a.m. session. Advanced reservations are required.