Mentioned by Tripster Travel Guide
32 Totally Free Things to Do in Chicago
"Navy Pier and its surrounding attractions are full of fun activities for kids and adults alike (see above for some more details on all the stuff you can enjoy while there). Take a stroll around the pier, sample some classic boardwalk eats, and take a spin on the iconic Ferris wheel for unbeatable views of the city. Use your Go Chicago Card All-Inclusive Pass to get a 4-Ride pass for Navy Pier attractions, including the ever-popular Centennial Wheel."
"Navy Pier is a Chicago landmark and the perfect place to spend a day with a family—no matter what you're looking to do. Be sure to check out the "today's events" section of the Navy Pier website for a complete listing of the many unique current and upcoming events at the Pier. Kids will enjoy: Riding the 1920s style carousel at Navy Pier Park or a visit to the Chicago Children's Museum."
"Navy Pier combines everything you could ever hope for in an area of a city you're visiting, and it has placed it right on the shores of Lake Michigan. There are shops, places to eat, boat tours, mini golf and a Ferris wheel. You might also find the Children's Museum of interest if you're there with family."
"Exit Millennium Park via the BP Bridge, a 925-foot-long winding bridge that provides incomparable views of the Chicago skyline, Grant Park and Lake Michigan. On the other side of the bridge sits Maggie Daley Park, a spectacular green space with massive rock climbing walls, mini golf, picnic groves, and an amazing play garden for children."
"While the Chicago Water Tower was really only built to hide a standpipe, its intricate design symbolizes the value of simple things; like water supply. The story behind this structure is the important solution designed by Chesbrough to save the city from the inadequate water supply for the growing population. It is built with a characteristic Gothic Revival style, almost fairytale-like."
"Older school children and some older teens may enjoy the stunning architecture and impressive art collection found here. Located on the Magnificent Mile, Chicago’s one of the most easily recognized landmarks was built from 1867-1869 and survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Exhibits change regularly so check the website to see what’s on display before you visit."
"This free gallery is located within the historic Water Tower and features a rotating gallery of works by Chicago photographers and artists."
"The Rookery is an iconic building, positioned in heart of downtown Chicago's financial district. The building, a mashup of modern building techniques (elevators and fireproofing) and traditional design (ornamental brick facades), was completed in 1888 by Burnham and Root. In 1905, Frank Lloyd Wright remodeled the lobby with white marble and Persian-style ornamentation."
"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."
"Known for its limestone gatehouse and highly decorated columbarium niches, which are composed of photographs, artwork, flags, and other mementos of individuals whose ashes are stored there, this cemetery, established by Chicago's Czech community in 1877, also features storied mausoleums, stained glass images and a special dedication to Chicago Cubs fans. It's a quieter, welcome alternative to public parks that often draw rambunctious young children."
"A National Historic Landmark, this South Loop church suffered a devastating fire in 1900, so the congregation hired architects Howard Van Doren Shaw and Frederic Clay Bartlett to rebuild the building in the then-popular Arts and Crafts style. Over the years, the church welcomed many famous Chicago families including the Pullmans, Blackstones, and Armours. Open Saturday, October, 19, from 10 a.m."
"Only in Chicago could a restaurant’s burger be so popular that it deserves its own dedicated storefront—and thank God for that. The story of Mini Mott’s signature dish started in 2016, when the burger at its parent restaurant, Mott St, was recognized as one of the best in the nation. At the time, the patty was only available at the Asian restaurant’s tiny bar, making it a hot-ticket item for guests and a pain in the ass for management."
"There are other things on the menu at Tiztal, but you’re really there for their delicious chilaquiles, made with fresh chips, chihuahua cheese, and a delicious green salsa. They come with eggs and your choice of meat, and you should definitely choose chorizo."
"The view of the Chicago River is the crown jewel in the signature Chuan Spa, known for its serenity. The décor and treatments are based on an East-meets-West spa concept, with many of the services—massage, facials, and an array of well-known traditional Chinese medicine treatments, including cupping and acupuncture, designed to restore balance and increase overall energy."
"Chuan Spa – The restful setting stimulates consideration and introspection because you embark in a trip made to balance the mind, body and soul. Similar to opening a secret garden where you observes soul of care, your wellbeing venture promotes, heals and relieves. Prior to every treatment, set about an entirely pure water trip the Chuan Bathing Ritual."
"Chuan Spa at The Langham, Chicago has been rated Illinois' first and only Forbes 5 star spa - and it shows. Ensconced in The Langham Chicago, rated a Five-Star hotel by Forbes Travel Guide, Chuan Spa is the best spa in the city. Complete a five-element questionnaire to ensure you get the most from your treatment."
"Modern Indian cafe Moti has unveiled a new option during the pandemic that’s proven to be popular. Indian pizzas: thin-crust pies with the restaurant’s “Moti sauce” and cilantro-lime drizzle. The crispy pies are studded with onions, green peppers, mozzarella, and a choice of protein (chicken or paneer)."