Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Palos Hills

"Sharing the Museum Campus Chicago with the Field Museum and the Adler Planetarium, the Shedd Aquarium (1930) was for some time the largest indoor aquarium in the world. Donated by the philanthropist John G. Shedd, the attraction has an incredible 32,500 aquatic creatures from across the planet. These are in immersive zones like Amazon Rising, which has caimans, anacondas, piranhas and freshwater stingrays in tanks among the roots of rainforest trees."

"This large aquarium with 32,000 animals guides visitors through the world's many marine habitats, from the entertaining colony of penguins to the mysterious Amazon. Watch divers as they feed sea turtles, stingrays, sharks and tropical fish in the Caribbean Reef's circular viewing tank. A perpetual highlight is the Oceanarium where dolphins and beluga whales spread their infectious joy."

"Shed Aquarium is located on the edge of Lake Michigan and is home to over 30,000 aquatic creatures. Various exhibits showcase marine and freshwater habitats from all over the world, from a Caribbean reef to North America’s very own Great Lakes. Learn all about the diverse diet of a shark or the aquarium’s rescue and rehabilitation program of sea otters."

"The Chicago Children’s Museum offers veterans and active military free admission every day with the presentation of valid military status identification. They also offer families that qualify for state food assistance and are in possession of an EBT card or WIC card free admission for up to 6 people."

"This iconic Chicago attraction is bursting with attractions. However, many of them charge a fee. Believe it or not, though, there are several free things to do in Chicago at Navy Pier."

"Architect/Firm: ​​​​​​​Burnham & Root, 1888 and Frank Lloyd Wright, 1907The Loop The architectural masterpiece originally designed by Burnham & Root in 1888 is one of the most-recognized buildings in the city. Frank Lloyd Wright later re-envisioned its two-story mezzanine with an oriel staircase and glass ceiling to illuminate white marble with gold geometric patterning, which now covers darker, copper-plated ironwork. The commercial office's facade experiments with late Roman, Venetian, Moorish, and medieval-European elements."

"LaSalle St.Architects: Daniel Burnham & John Root/Frank Lloyd Wright. On the National Register of Historic Places and designated a Chicago Landmark in 1972, The Rookery is located in Chicago’s downtown Financial District. It was constructed during a transitional period in architectural history, using both load-bearing masonry and a skeletal frame, which are distinguishing elements of the Chicago School of Architecture."

"Source: Photo by user Esther Westerveld used under CC BY 2.0. One of the finest building in the United States, the Rookery Building is an absolute architectural treat. The interior light court maximizes the natural light entering the building."

"Of the numerous buildings that Frank Lloyd Wright designed around Chicago, none is more famous or influential than Robie House. Because its horizontal lines resembled the flat landscape of the Midwestern prairie, the style became known as the Prairie style. Inside are 174 stained-glass windows and doors, which you'll see on the hour-long tours (frequency varies by season, but there's usually at least one tour per hour). Advance tickets are highly recommended."

"Named one of the 10 most significant buildings of the 20th century by the American Institute of Architects, the 9,000-square-foot Robie…"

"Indulge in some shopping, veer off a couple blocks to grab an espresso at the beloved Italian market Eataly, or continue to the DuSable Bridge for a fantastic photo-op of the emerald green Chicago River surrounded by sparkling skyscrapers. The most iconic spot in the entire city is just a couple blocks further: Millennium Park, a sprawling downtown green space that’s home to Cloud Gate, more commonly known as ‘The Bean.’ The stainless steel plates reflect the surrounding city skyline which makes for some epic shots–especially if you make it there first thing in the morning before the throngs of tourists arrive. Be sure to walk below Cloud Gate’s 12-foot-high arch to snap some cool perspective pics from underneath."

"Start off your morning with a beautiful cruise down the Chicago River. This cruise only runs during the warmer months (and can be a bit too chilly during the early spring and late fall, even if it is running), so we recommend reserving this attraction for the warmest times of year"

"The Laugh Factory is a small yet cozy establishment that has an intimate ambiance. The biggest highlight of this comedy bar would probably be its occasional open mic nights, which give guests the opportunity to realize their dream of being stand-up comics, even for just one night. Be aware that there’s a two drinks minimum policy here, but even non-drinkers can go around this, as non-alcoholic beverages are sold here as well."

"A post shared by K.Cal (@therealkatiecal) on Nov 4, 2016 at 11:10pm PDT. The name of this establishment is quite apt, as it seems to take pains in bringing its brand of service and humor to another level. A buffet is served here and features a variety of food options."

"Having the fam there for support will help alleviate the stress of the endless amounts of options on the menu. Bonus: since the menu is so overwhelming with goodness, having the extra people there means getting a bite off of everyone's plate. What to order: Led Zeppelin Burger"

"Peeled is proof that here in Chicago we do choose healthy options (sometimes.) The best way to start your day or end a workout is a Peeled smoothie or açaí bowl."

"After Art Smith lost the lbs., he turned his attention to a casual chain serving food that fit his new, healthy lifestyle. That meant the fried chicken had to go, and was replaced with an un-fried version served alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and cashew cream sauce that maxes-out at 566 calories."

"While not an exclusively vegetarian restaurant, Lyfe Kitchen's locations promote a healthy lifestyle by placing vegetables above all else in their menu. Try their vegan beet poke or Beyond Burger to see what we mean."

"Located inside the serene Waldorf Astoria hotel, the spa was designed like a Greco-Roman European Spa. It's spacious (14,000 sq. ft) and includes a state-of-the-art fitness facility, impressive lap pool and separate men's and women's locker rooms, each with a Eucalyptus Steam Room, Dry Sauna, Jacuzzi and relaxation lounge. You're bound to find something appealing among the wellness offerings and experiences are tailored for each guest's needs: customized facials, men's services, treatments for hands and feet and even eyelash extensions."

"Until teleportation is possible, we’ll take a shortcut to Turkey through the Waldorf Astoria Spa. Their signature cleanse includes a coffee, olive stone and lemon scrub, followed by a rhassoul clay wrap, for a full hammam experience in 120 minutes. Afterward, we like to relax in the elegant lounge, but you’re also welcome to use the state-of-the-art fitness center."

"The Waldorf Astoria Spa is probably the most indulgent spa on this list. This 14,000 sq ft Greek-inspired spa offers an array of attractive treatment options. From salons to pools and even a health club, this spa has got you covered."

"After all that walking, head back to your room at the Dana Hotel and Spa in the chic River North neighbourhood to freshen up ahead of the night portion of your Chicago itinerary. The design-forward property wows from the moment you walk through the multi-storey, airy foyer, which is accented with geometric seating and light fixtures that set the tone for the surrounding ultra luxe spaces. On-site amenities include an acclaimed spa and multiple restaurants, like the rooftop Apogee Lounge where the in-crowd comes to sip hand-crafted cocktails and soak in the views."