Skydeck Chicago: Entry Ticket
Från36,07 €
— 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
The Art Institute of Chicago: Fast Pass
Från40 US$
The Field Museum of Natural History: Entry Ticket
Från29 US$
360 Chicago Observation Deck: Entry Ticket
Från30 US$
The Field Museum of Natural History: Pass
Från42 US$
Chicago: Architecture River Cruise from Navy Pier
Från39 US$
Chicago C3® CityPASS®: 3 Attractions of your choice
Från109 US$
Chicago: 45 Minute Architectural Sightseeing Cruise
Från28 US$
Museum Of Contemporary Art (MCA): Entry Ticket
Från22 US$
Lake Michigan & Chicago River: 1.5-Hr Sightseeing Cruise
Från46 US$
Navy Pier Centennial Wheel: Entry Ticket
Från21,1 €
Museum of Illusions Chicago: Entry Ticket
Från43 US$
Museum of Ice Cream Chicago: Entry Ticket
Från43 US$
Chicago: 90 Minute Architecture Sightseeing Cruise
Från45 US$
Flyover Experience in Chicago
Från27,95 US$
Medieval Torture Museum: Entry Ticket
Från35,83 US$
Chicago CityPASS®
Från144 US$
Chicago: Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady
Från57 US$
Chicago Explorer Pass: 2 to 7 Attractions including 360 Chicago
Från84 US$
Chicago: 90-Minute Architecture Tour on the Lake & River
Från45 US$
Chicago Crime & Mob Bus Tour: Criminals, Mobsters and Gangsters
Från49 US$
Balloon Museum® Chicago: EmotionAir Exhibition Entry Ticket
Från44,38 US$
Chicago History Museum: Entry Ticket
Från19 US$
Lake Michigan & Chicago River: 75 Minute Speedboat Cruise
Från72,34 €
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.