Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Forest Park

"Next door is the Shedd Aquarium, where you can meet 32,500 creatures from aquatic habitats around the world including beluga whales, dolphins, sea otters, sea lions and penguins inside the Oceanarium. Just beyond the aquarium is the Adler Planetarium, which when constructed in 1930 became America's first planetarium. The building is more than a museum; it is a laboratory, a classroom, and a community exploring the Universe together. Each year half a million visitors experience the museum's interactive exhibitions, live planetarium shows, hands-on educational programs, and world-class collections."

"Chicago residents are admitted for 50% off throughout the year, and in addition, Illinois residents are admitted free on select days throughout the year. Proof of residency is required."

"The mystical underwater world comes alive for those not actually at the aquarium via Instagram. We see all your jellyfish, dolphin show, and shark tank photos."

"Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most popular tourist destinations—and with good reason. The 3,300-foot (1,010-meter) pier jutting into the waters of Lake Michigan, originally constructed in 1916 as a freight dock and public space, encompasses almost 50 acres (20 hectares) of exhibits, rides, parks, and family attractions.More"

"Before you start your exploration of Chicago in earnest, fuel up with a pastry and caffeinated beverage at this third-wave coffee shop, conveniently located near Navy Pier. The almond croissants are the perfect compliment to your morning pick-me-up. There’s no better way to kick off your 3 days in Chicago itinerary."

"Chicago’s Gothic Revival Catholic cathedral, by Chicago Station on the Red Line, was completed in 1875 after its predecessor burnt down in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Eagle-eyed visitors will be able to spot an overarching Tree of Life Theme in the building’s fittings. On arrival you’ll be confronted by the cathedral’s immense bronze doors, each weighing more than 500 kilos and cast to resemble planks of wood."

"Address: 735 North State StreetSaturday Mass Times: 11:00 am, 1:30 pm , and 3:30 pmA/C: YesCost: Unspecified but there is a cost, along with a cost for the musiciansParishioner?. NoTime for photos after: No photos are allowed on the altar before or after the ceremony. Photos in the courtyard are allowed if weather permitsCan you bring your own priest?"

"Architects:Patrick Keely, Henry Schlacks, Joseph J. McCarthy, Charles Murphy. Architectural style:Gothic Revival architecture. Cathedrals are those churches that are considered- as an official seat of Bishop jurisdiction."

"The TILT experience at 360 CHICAGO Observation deck allows guests to experience Chicago from a new angle from an enclosed, glass-and-steel moveable platform that holds up to eight people at a time. It allows guests to experience views of the Windy City, including 360-degree views spanning four states. It also showcases unparalleled views of the lake and the city skyline as well as interactive learning opportunities."

"A mainstay of Chicago’s silhouette, 875 North Michigan Avenue (formerly the John Hancock Center) is a 344-metre skyscraper on the Magnificent Mile. Tapering as it rises, the tower was topped off in 1969 and appears in pretty much any movie that needs an establishing shot for Chicago. Up close you can watch its characteristic X-shaped bracing zigzag up the facades."

"Tucked away at the edge of Lincoln Park that juts out into Lake Michigan, the Montrose Bird Sanctuary is a 15-acre wooded respite that features a few peaceful mulch-covered hiking trails to stroll through. What was once a site of Army barracks from the ’50s to the ’70s is now one of the best places in the area to spot a few of the tens of thousands of migratory birds from more than 300 different species that reportedly stop for some green space along their trek along the lake. Within the sanctuary, a 150-yard stretch of honeysuckle bushes has been nicknamed “The Magic Hedge,” because it attracts an especially high number of migratory birds."

"UptownThis more laid-back section of Montrose Beach is both a dune habitat and a bird sanctuary, as well as one of the best spots for trail hiking in the city with killer skyline views. If that’s not enough, there’s also a beach bar. And a damn fine beach bar at that."

"Most people haven't tasted Filipino food unless they have friends or family but if you find yourself craving for an authentic Filipino breakfast in Chicago, head to Uncle Mike's Place. The Longaniza (sweet anise-wine chorizo sausage) and Tocino (annat and anise cured pork shoulder) can be ordered separately but also together as a combo that arrives with garlic fried rice and two eggs any style. It also serves bangus (boneless grilled milkfish) which is popular among Filipinos."

"First-timers may come to Uncle Mike’s Place on the hunt for the perfect omelet or patty melt, but they quickly learn there’s much more to savor. The cozy family-run restaurant has a full menu of Filipino-American fare. Warm up with a bowl of lugao (chicken rice soup), try some tocino (Filipino bacon) with your eggs or go whole-hog with a side of spicy fried Spam."

"Instead of the usual bacon and sausage, opt for Spam and longaniza in the morning. This Filipino diner mixes things up with Southeast Asian favorites such as bangus (milkfish), marinated skirt steak, and bone-in pork chop. Don’t fret if those sound a little too hearty though, patrons can still order an omelet or short stack."

"Nestled in a dingy underground food court, Hello Jasmine is a modest boba place, but don’t let that fool you. The small shop stays true to the taste of Taiwanese boba, using the largest, most chewy balls that can be found in Chicago. Their grapefruit tea features pieces of real grapefruit (with peel), giving the drink a subtle bitter edge to accompany the sweet citrus taste."

"The Shops at North Bridge encompasses Nordstrom, Eataly with 50 stores and 20 restaurants across 6 city blocks. Dine-in at one of their restaurants or enjoy a quick snack at their delicious selection of restaurants like Café Nordstrom, Bhoomi Chai Co., Big Bowl, and many more. Visitors may also enjoy their shopping experience in-person, curbside pickup, virtual queuing, and in-store pickup options."

"The shops at North Bridge welcome shoppers with an architecturally unique exterior: the façade of the 1928 former McGraw-Hill building. When it was demolished the stonework was dismantled, cleaned and repositioned at the site of the North Bridge Mall. Featuring anchor stores such as Nordstrom, Louis Vuitton and Hugo Boss, North Bridge promises a fabulous shopping experience."

"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Daniel X. O'Neil used under CC BY 2.0. Another outdoor shopping centre on our list is located in Bronzeville, known for being the centre of African-American life and culture. If you are planning to visit this area in August, check out the annual Bud Billiken Parade."

"This family-owned business has been slinging their California-style donuts in Belmont-Cragin since 2012. In the meantime, their sweet and savory provisions have made an appearance or two on multiple network programs including WGN’s Chicago’s Best and ABC’s The Hungry Hound. Donut-wise, you can pop by to choose from their Old Fashioned, Devil’s Food, Lemon Cake, Apple Crisp donuts and more!"

"For nearly half a century, Buritt Bulloch, or Mr. B as he is known by customers, has been Chicago’s king of donuts. While times have changed, and social media sites like Instagram trend more-eye catching treats with all the pizzazz and razzle dazzle, Mr. B keeps things simple, deep-fried, and delicious, with glazed doughnuts, apple fritters, doughnut balls, long johns, and giant Texas doughnuts."

"If you think something is the best, someone else is likely to have an objection. This rule does not apply to the apple fritter ($3.19) at Old Fashioned Donuts, though. Anyone who eats this agrees: It’s the best ever."

"D & D’s Place is a beloved family-owned donut establishment beloved by customers and critics alike. Six years ago, husband-and-wife, Devell and Lolita Brittmon, opened the shop at 8324 S."