— No ticket required
Free things to do in Chicago
You don't need a big budget to enjoy Chicago. These experiences are completely free to attend — though many still require you to reserve a spot in advance because capacity is limited.
See all Chicago
Zero cost, still worth booking.
Matches
104
City
Chicago
Total in city
75
Min rating
any
About this list
Why this shortlist
Free walking tours are the single most popular free activity in Chicago, and we list every reputable one in town. Many are tip-based, which means you pay what you think the tour was worth at the end.
Aside from walking tours, look for free museum entry days, open-air concerts, and self-guided routes with downloadable maps.
Shortlist
Free things to do in Chicago
Skydeck Chicago: Entry Ticket
From€36.07
The Art Institute of Chicago: Fast Pass
From$40
The Field Museum of Natural History: Entry Ticket
From$29
Big Bus: Chicago Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
360 Chicago Observation Deck: Entry Ticket
From$30
The Field Museum of Natural History: Pass
From$42
Chicago: Architecture River Cruise from Navy Pier
From$39
360 Chicago Observation Deck Skip-the-Line Tickets
Chicago C3® CityPASS®: 3 Attractions of your choice
From$109
Chicago: 45 Minute Architectural Sightseeing Cruise
From$28
Museum Of Contemporary Art (MCA): Entry Ticket
From$22
Lake Michigan & Chicago River: 1.5-Hr Sightseeing Cruise
From$46
Navy Pier Centennial Wheel: Entry Ticket
From€21.1
Museum of Illusions Chicago: Entry Ticket
From$43
Museum of Ice Cream Chicago: Entry Ticket
From$43
Flyover Experience in Chicago
From$27.95
Chicago: 90 Minute Architecture Sightseeing Cruise
From$45
Medieval Torture Museum: Entry Ticket
From$35.83
Chicago CityPASS®
From$144
Chicago: Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady
From$57
Chicago Explorer Pass: 2 to 7 Attractions including 360 Chicago
From$84
Chicago: 90-Minute Architecture Tour on the Lake & River
From$45
Chicago Crime & Mob Bus Tour: Criminals, Mobsters and Gangsters
From$49
Before you book
FAQ
- Are tip-based tours really free?
- Yes — there's no obligation to tip. Most guides survive on tips, though, so €5–€10 per person is the norm if you enjoyed it.