How to Plan a Budget Trip in Chicago, Illinois, United States

All Topics about Chicago All Cities in United States

1. Chicago CityPASS

Save up to 53% on Chicago's top attractions with this budget-friendly pass.

Sightseeing Savings: Includes admission to Shedd Aquarium, Skydeck Chicago, Museum of Science and Industry, and more.
Flexible Timeframe: Valid for 9 consecutive days from first use, allowing for a flexible itinerary.
Skip-the-line Access: Avoid long lines at popular attractions with included fast-track entry.

Experience over 300,000 works spanning 5,000 years at this world-renowned museum.

Affordable Admission: $14 for adults, free admission on Target Free First Sundays.
Free Guided Tours: Expert-led tours explore various exhibits throughout the museum.
Discounted Cafe Meals: Enjoy affordable meals at the café, located within the museum.

A vibrant urban park offering world-class art and architecture, including Cloud Gate (the Bean).

Free Admission: Entry to the park is always free.
Outdoor Concerts: Check out the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's summer concerts at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
Iconic Photo Ops: Capture memorable moments in front of iconic public art, like Cloud Gate and Crown Fountain.

An entertainment complex boasting stunning lakefront views, shops, restaurants, and summer fireworks.

Budget-Friendly Attractions: The Centennial Wheel offers discounted tickets on select days.
Free Festivals and Events: Catch free music, dance, and cultural events throughout the year.
Chicago's First Beach: Ocean Drive Beach offers a unique urban beach experience during the summer.

A elevated park trail connecting four Chicago neighborhoods with art, gardens, and community events.

Free Access: Entry to the park is always free.
Healthy Activities: A great place for jogging, biking, or simply walking and enjoying nature.
Community Events: Check out free fitness classes, art installations, and community gatherings throughout the year.

One of the oldest zoos in North America with free admission, featuring a variety of animals and exhibits.

No Entrance Fee: Admission is always free.
ZooLights: During the holiday season, the zoo transforms into a winter wonderland of lights and family-friendly activities.
Wildlife Discovery: Get up close to animals like African elephants, Arctic wolves, and red pandas.

A pedestrian-only waterfront destination featuring restaurants, boat tours, and stunning views of the city.

Affordable Dining: Find a variety of budget-friendly dining options along the Riverwalk.
Architecture Tours: Join guided architecture boat tours to learn about Chicago's iconic buildings.
Free Entertainment: Enjoy live music and performances during the summer months.

The nation's first free municipal cultural center offering art exhibits, tours, and family-friendly programs.

Free Admission: Entry to the building and most exhibits is always free.
Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about the center's history, architecture, and art.
Family-Friendly Activities: Kids can participate in hands-on workshops, storytimes, and other family-friendly activities.

Experience contemporary art from local, national, and international artists in this iconic museum.

Free Admission: Free admission every Tuesday.
Artist Talks: Hear directly from artists about their work during scheduled talks and events.
Thought-Provoking Exhibits: Explore cutting-edge exhibitions that challenge perceptions and inspire new ideas.

A premier shopping district featuring iconic stores, restaurants, and architecture.

Sales and Deals: Check out sales and deals during seasonal events like The Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival.
Architecture Tours: Join guided tours to learn about the iconic buildings lining this famous street.
Outdoor Dining: Enjoy al fresco dining at one of the many outdoor restaurants.

Discover Chicago's architectural history and learn about the city's iconic buildings.

Architecture Tours: Join guided walking tours to see the city's most famous buildings up close.
Expert Guides: Learn from expert guides who can answer your questions and share insider knowledge.
Architecture Film Festival: Attend the annual Chicago Architecture Biennial, featuring films, exhibitions, and discussions about architecture.

A sustainable, pollinator-friendly garden offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.

Free Admission: Entry to the garden is always free.
Sustainable Landscape: Learn about sustainable gardening practices and native plants.
Community Events: Attend free workshops, tours, and events focused on gardening, conservation, and art.

A sprawling urban park featuring famous landmarks like Buckingham Fountain and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Free Admission: Entry to the park is always free.
Iconic Landmarks: Visit Buckingham Fountain, the largest of its kind in the world, and explore the Art Institute of Chicago.
Outdoor Concerts: Catch free concerts at the Petrillo Music Shell during the summer months.

A historic landmark offering affordable tickets to a variety of shows and performances.

Affordable Tickets: Find discounted tickets for select shows and performances.
Iconic Architecture: Experience the stunning architectural details of this famous theater.
Diverse Shows: Choose from a variety of shows, including music, comedy, and Broadway productions.

An interactive, video-based fountain featuring iconic Chicago faces and a fun, family-friendly experience.

Free Admission: Entry to the park and fountain is always free.
Interactive Experience: Play in the water as the faces spout water during hot summer days.
Light Show: Experience a nighttime light show that brings the fountain to life after dark.