Chicago is one of the most bustling, exciting and cultural citiesin all of America. There's definitely no shortage of super fun activities to take part in in this amazing city.
Although this city can get pretty pricey, there's still a bunch of fun ways to save money when exploring Chicago. Whether you're a Chicago resident or you're visiting for a short vacation, these are some really great spots in the city that should be on your bucket list.
There's no need to break the bank when exploring this city!
30. Hang out for a while at Navy Pier.
Navy Pier is a Chicago landmark and the perfect place to hang out once the weather heats up a bit. It's a 3,300 footpier that offers views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. They also host cruises, free events and art displays all year round!
29. Take a tour of Revolution Brewery.
The Revolution Brewery in Chicago makes some seriously good beer. They offer free tours of the brewery so you can see where the magic happens first-hand but it's first come first serve! The tours take place Wednesday-Friday at 6 and 7pm or Saturday and Sundays with multiple afternoon slots.
28. Spend some time smelling the fresh flowers in Lurie Garden.
Lurie Garden is a gorgeous green space located in the heart of downtown Chicago that's open all 4 seasons. Come spring time you can find tons of wildflowers dotting the garden and making into a colourful oasis in the city.
27. Take a free tour of thesights with a Chicago Greeter.
The Chicago Greeter offers a fun and interesting program where you can see the best sights in the city from a local's point of view. Get paired up with a local and they'll show you around to all the hot spots for a 2-4 hour tour, and it's completely free!
26. Visit animals in captivity at the Lincoln Park Zoo.
The Lincoln Park Zoo is open all year long and is free all the time.
(Video) Buckingham Fountain at night
25. Visit the gorgeous flowers at the Chicago Botanic Garden.
The Chicago Botanic Garden is home to tons of beautiful gardens like their aquatic garden, bonsai collection, waterfall garden, Japanese garden and so many more! It's a beautiful spot to explore once spring rolls around and admission is always free!
24. Spend some time in the quiet at the Harold Washington Library.
The Harold Washington Library is the biggest and most beautiful public library in all of Chicago. The architecture and beauty of this library is enough to take your breath away and it's the perfect place to visit, catch up with work and peruse the isles of books.
23. Watch an improv show at The Second City.
The Second City is a famous comedy house that has multiple locations across North America. Yes, most of their shows require you to pay some money to see them but a lot of their improv shows are completely free!
22. Spend a sunny day in Grant Park.
Grant Park is one of the best parks in the entire city for free events, festivals and just to spend some time once the weather gets nice again. There's also public art and even some fountain shows in the summer.
21. Wander through the Museum of Contemporary Photography.
Spending an afternoon at the Museum of Contemporary Photography will cost you nothing but give you so much! It offers works presenting a wide range of aesthetics using different technologies that is constantly showing new talent.
20. Hang out among the plants at the Garfield Park Conservatory.
Admission to this beautiful green oasis in the city is completely free all year round! They're currently promoting their amazing spring flower show until mid-May while the flowers are blooming and creating a colourful paradise.
(Video) Inside Chicago’s Iconic Buckingham Fountain
19. Admire the beauty of the Chicago Cultural Centre.
The Chicago Cultural Centre is known for it's breathing architecture and it's numerous public events that are always free! You can take pictures and admire the stunning stained-glass domes and then enjoy a free event like their art installations.
The Buckingham Fountain is located in the centre of Grant Park and is a truly magnificent sight. At night the fountain lights up and looks beautiful against the background of the Chicago city skyline.
17. Visit the Jane Addams Hull House museum.
Jane Addams is a prominent figure in Chicago history who's known for her social work efforts. She was a pioneer through her writing and activism for women's rights and world peace. She founded the Hull House as a settlement house as residents moved into the Chicago area.
16. Explore the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park.
This beautiful sculpture park is open all year round is completely free to the public. It's home to over 60 sculptures created by local artists displaying the true talent that lies in this city.
15. Wander through the exhibits at the National Museum of Mexican Art.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Mexico through their vibrant artwork. Experience over 3,000 years of creativity and artistic talent and really get a taste of what this country has to offer.
14. Be a tourist for a day and visit the Chicago Bean.
Sure this is one of the most touristy spots you can visit in all of Chicago, but it's also a pretty unique and special place. Visit early in the morning or super late at night and avoid the crowds while you get some really pretty shots!
13. Enjoy an afternoon of window shopping on The Magnificent Mile.
It may be difficult to refrain yourself from actually buying anything, but the Magnificent Mile is home to the best window shopping in Chicago! Walk past tons of shops, boutiques and restaurants and then maybe treat yourself to a coffee at a cute cafe.
12. Enjoy sunset views of the city at Promontory Point.
On a nice warm day, head out to Promontory Point for some of the best views of the city skyline in all of Chicago. It's a great place in the summer for swimming and water sports but for now, just use it as a great viewpoint!
11. Go for a sunny stroll or bike along the Chicago Lakefront Trail.
Chicago's Lakefront Trail lies right beside Lake Michigan and is super popular once the weather warms up. Enjoy a casual stroll, a fun bike ride, a sweaty run or anything you want along this scenic path!
10. Go for a casual bike ride along The 606.
The 606 used to be an elevated railroad and has since been turned into a biking and walking path for pedestrians to enjoy. Choose a sunny day to pull out the bikes and go for a ride or go for a stroll and soak up the sun!
9. Explore the ancient world at the Oriental Institute.
The Oriental Institute is located Hyde Park and showcases history, art, and archeology from the Oriental world. Admission is completely free to experience something completely unique and cultured right here in Chicago.
8. Take in the delicious smells at the Maxwell Street Market.
The Maxwell Street Market is a year-round market featuring amazing street food. Admission to the market is completely free but if you want to indulge in a treat you'll have to pay a little something.
7. Indulge in free wings at Burwood Tap.
The Burwood Tap is a great local watering hole that serves amazing beer, has pool tables and live music. But the best thing that they offer is their free wings every Monday through Thursday starting at 8:30pm.
6. Admire the city's architecture from the Chicago Riverwalk.
Instead of taking a boat tour you can walk along the Chicago River for free and see the exact same sights. It spans 125 miles and features tons of vendors selling food and drinks!
5. Visit the exciting Chicago Design Museum.
The Chicago Design Museum is a place for creativity, art, technology and innovation to come together to create new and exciting things. They're always hosting new exhibits, workshops, digital media, and so much more that you never know what you're going to find here!
4. Take a self-guided tour of the Chicago Pedway System.
The Chicago Pedway System is an underground pedestrian walkway located in the downtown area. It spans across 40 blocks and links tons of things like restaurants, shops, subways stops and more! It's a great way to escape the cold chill of winter but also a fun place to explore the maze-like tunnels.
3. Watch the sunrise in Humboldt Park.
This 219 acre park located in the west side of Chicago is the perfect place to catch a beautiful morning sunrise. In this park you can find historic lagoons, iconic field houses, an inland beach and you can view the sunrise over Lake Michigan!
2. Watch a performance at the Free Street Theatre.
The Free Street Theatre is an amazing place because it allows artists to express themselves freely in a safe space and for the public to come and watch some free performances.
1. Pretend you're a kid again at Maggie Daley Park.
Maggie Daley Park is a public park that will definitely bring out your inner child. In this park you'll find an ice skating ribbon, an outdoor climbing wall, mini golf, tennis courts and picnic groves!
FAQs
Is Buckingham Fountain lit up at night? ›
At dusk, Buckingham Fountain comes to life. Head to the park after sunset and you'll be treated to a spectacular light and music show every hour on the hour.
Is the Buckingham Fountain on day or night? ›Major displays begin daily at 9:00 a.m. and continue thereafter, every hour on the hour. Beginning at dusk, a spectacular light and music display accompanies the major display, beginning every hour on the hour for 20 minutes. Each evening, the final major display begins at 10:35 p.m.
What are 3 facts about Buckingham Fountain? ›The fountain is powered by 3 pumps that push 14,100 gallons of water per minute through 134 water jets. The fountain holds 1.5 million gallons of water. The base of Buckingham Fountain is 280 feet in diameter. The fountain's lighting display is made up of 820 lights meant to convey an effect of "soft moonlight."
What time does the Buckingham Fountain turn off? ›Description. The Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain, one of the largest in the world, is located at Columbus Drive (301 East) and Congress Parkway (500 South) in Grant Park and runs from 8 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily, typically from early May through mid-October, depending on weather.
How does the fountain do from morning till night? ›What does the fountain do from morn till night? उत्तर: The fountain leaps and flashes from morning till night.
What time does the fountains start? ›Dubai Fountain timings and tickets information
The fountains come to life every 30 minutes from 6pm, daily.
An onsite manager will be present from set-up to the start of the event. A labor fee of $480 and a $35 application fee will be applied to all events. Please inquire with venue for a ceremony only wedding. Venue does not do guided tours, feel free to visit park during hours of operation.
How often does fountain at fountain park go off? ›The world-famous fountain goes off every one hour for 15 minutes between 9:00 am-9:00 pm. The fountain will not operate in windy conditions. 35 acres of turf. An amphitheater.
Can you swim in Buckingham Fountain? ›Officials at the Chicago Park District, which oversees Buckingham Fountain, were not pleased with the adventure. "Obviously the Chicago Park District does not condone swimming in the fountain," said spokeswoman Jessica Maxey-Faulkner.
What is Buckingham Fountain known for? ›One of The World's Largest Fountains
The Buckingham Fountain measures 85 metres in diameter, making it one of the largest constructions of the sort in the world. It rises more than 7 meters high and consists of three successive levels of basins, engulfed by four pairs of bronze seahorses.
What does Buckingham Fountain represent? ›
Stylized in a rococo wedding cake style, the Buckingham Fountain is meant to represent Lake Michigan. The four sets of seahorses symbolize the four Midwestern states that surround the lake – Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Indiana.
What is Buckingham known for? ›The town's tourist attractions include the Chantry Chapel, the Buckingham Old Gaol museum, the Sir George Gilbert Scott designed St. Peter & St Paul Church and a number of picturesque Georgian streetscapes. Nearby to Buckingham include Stowe School, Stowe Landscape Gardens and Silverstone Circuit.
Should I turn off my fountain at night? ›Fountains work best when they are left running. Shutting off a fountain overnight may save you a few dollars in energy costs, but it leaves behind stagnant water that encourages bacterial overgrowth. That bacteria can even harm the fountain's equipment if they are not removed from the fountain pump's textured surface.
Should I leave my fountain running all the time? ›Should I Leave My Fountain on All the Time? Fountain pumps are specifically designed to run constantly. It is hard on the pump if you constantly turn it on and off every day. The only times you should turn off the fountain pump is if you are cleaning it or if you are going to be away from it for several days.
Is Chicago Riverwalk free? ›Free to the public | Hours 6 am - 11 pm
The continuous path from Lake Street to the lake front also allows a vertical connection from Upper Wacker Drive down to the waterway.
The poet describes the motion of the fountain during sunlight and moonshine that inspires him to achieve his highest goals in life. He wishes to be happy and cheerful in all situations of life just like the fountain. According to the poet, if a man will be a value-seeker, he must be one by choice.
How do you know that the fountain is always happy answer? ›The fountain is joyfully busy in moving up and up all the whole day and night. It indicates that it is always happy. 2. The poet affects much with the pleasure of the fountain as it is always happy in all conditions.
What is the summary of the fountain? ›Summaries. As a modern-day scientist, Tommy is struggling with mortality, desperately searching for the medical breakthrough that will save the life of his cancer-stricken wife, Izzi.
What time is Magic fountain? ›| Time of Year | Days | Show Start Times |
|---|---|---|
| 1 March to 31 March | Thursday, Friday and Saturday | 8pm and 8:30pm |
| 1 April to 31 May | Thursday, Friday and Saturday | 9pm and 9:30pm |
| 1 June to 30 September | Wednesday to Sunday | 9:30pm and 10pm |
| 1 October to 31 October | Thursday, Friday and Saturday | 9pm and 9:30pm |
The Bellagio Fountain schedule is Monday – Friday from 3pm to 6:30pm every 30 minutes. After that from 7pm to midnight, the Fountain goes off every 15 minutes. On Saturday, Sunday and holidays, the fountain runs every 30 minutes from noon to 6:30pm and every 15 minutes from 7pm to midnight.
How often does the fountains go off in Vegas? ›
With the frequency and array of shows, you'll probably want to hang around a watch a few more. Monday - Friday: There is a show every half hour from 3 p.m. - 8 p.m. and every 15 minutes from 8 p.m. - midnight. Saturdays: The show runs every half hour from noon - 8 p.m. and every 15 minutes from 8 p.m. - midnight.
Is Buckingham Fountain free? ›Grant Park is open to visitors every day from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Admission to the park and Buckingham Fountain are free, but select attractions within the park operate set hours and may charge entry fees.
How much does it cost to go to Buckingham Fountain? ›There is no particular entry fees required to view the water show of the Buckingham fountain. One can easily view the water show for free throughout the day.
How much is the Buckingham Fountain? ›The horses each represent the different states of Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan and Indiana (which are the borders of Lake Michigan. The fountain cost around $750,000 to make and design.
What is the largest fountain in the world? ›Located on the west coast of Saudi Arabia, the fountain jets water to a maximum height of 260 metres (853 ft). The second-tallest is the World Cup Fountain in Seoul, South Korea, with a water height of 202 m (663 ft). King Fahd's Fountain is listed in Guinness World Records as the highest water fountain in the world.
What is the tallest fountain in the world? ›King Fahd's Fountain
The highest fountain in the world, the King Fahd's Fountains is in Jeddah. The fountain can throw water up to a height of 1023 feet and crosses the height of the Eiffel Tower without the antenna.
“We have no plans or intention to eliminate the iconic Bellagio fountains, one of the most identifiable tourism landmarks in the world.”
Can dogs go to Buckingham Fountain? ›Are dogs allowed throughout Grant Park? Because Grant Park encompasses a sprawling area, including Millennium Park and the Buckingham Fountain, dogs are not permitted throughout each of the different locations. In fact, unless your dog is a service animal, he or she is only allowed in the designated off-leash area.
Are Chicago beaches free? ›The Chicago Park District manages the city's 26 miles of open and free lakefront for the enjoyment of Chicago residents and visitors. Admission to Chicago's beaches is free.
Are dogs allowed at Buckingham Fountain? ›Grant Bark Park
Grant Park is home to Chicago's famous Buckingham Fountain and a fun dog park too — the Bark Park. Swing by the fountain with your pup on a leash to catch a glimpse of this famous landmark and visit the dog-friendly area to spend some time with him off-leash.
Where do you park to see Buckingham Fountain? ›
- Grant Park South Garage. Excellent (53,648) 0.3 mi. ...
- 401 S Wabash Ave. - Lot. Excellent (2,100) ...
- 55 E. Jackson Blvd. - Valet Assist Garage. ...
- 524 S Wabash Ave. - Loop Auto Parks Lot. Excellent (6,324) ...
- 328 S Wabash Ave. - Lot. Excellent (4,044) ...
- 215 S Wabash Ave. ( 231 S Wabash Ave.) - Valet-Assist Lot.
The tallest water fountain in the United States and third tallest in the world, capable of rising to 630 feet, the Gateway Geyser began operating on May 27, 1995, helping to fulfill Malcolm W. Martin's vision of creating a landmark along the Illinois riverfront that would complement the Gateway Arch.
What is the most famous fountain in the world? ›La Fontana di Trevi, the most famous fountain in the world
The 'Fontana di Trevi', or the Rome Trevi Fountain is perhaps the most famous fountain in the world and definitely in Italy and Rome.
As we have seen, for St. Bernard the symbol of fountain and water refers above all to Jesus Christ who brought us the five-fold waters necessary for our redemption. Implicitly, Mary's role can be seen as the source from which these waters flow.
What is Buckingham Fountain made of? ›The fountain is constructed of Georgia pink marble and contains 1.5 million U.S. gallons (5,700,000 L) of water. During a display, more than 14,000 U.S. gallons per minute (0.88 m3/s) are pushed through its 193 jets.
What does the fountain of life symbolize? ›The Fountain of Life is a symbol referring to baptism and or eucharist. The water that flows from the top to the lower terrace, is intended as a symbol of "the Grace that illuminates the Triumphant Church and blinds the Synagogue".
Why is Buckingham important? ›Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of the UK's sovereigns since 1837 and today is the administrative headquarters of the Monarch. Although in use for the many official events and receptions held by The King, the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are open to visitors every summer.
What is the meaning of Buckingham? ›Buckingham 1. / (ˈbʌkɪŋəm) / noun. a town in S central England, in Buckinghamshire; university (1975).
Why is Buckingham Palace so famous? ›Buckingham Palace is the London home and the administrative center of the British royal family. The enormous building and extensive gardens are an important site of ceremonial and political affairs in the United Kingdom, as well as a major tourist attraction.
Do fountains help you sleep? ›Improved Sleep
Water fountains provide a source of white noise that can help you sleep deeper for longer. White noise machines do an okay job but can become distracting as your brain memorizes the sound patterns. Because fountains are organic, their soundtrack is always changing.
Is it good to have fountain in the bedroom? ›
Water fountains should not be kept in the bedroom, as it may harm relationships. In fact, avoid keeping any kind of water element in the bedroom. The best position to place the water fountain at home is adjacent to the home entrance, in the north direction. You can also use a water fountain for home garden.
How dirty is the water in a water fountain? ›Besides the tap water being contaminated with chemicals and bacteria – the fountain itself is likely covered in germs! Drinking fountains are breeding grounds for germs and bacteria. The more people who come in contact with the public fountain – the more germs there are.
Can I use tap water in my fountain? ›It is mostly recommended to use distilled water to fill the fountain. The reason: distilled water is pure and contains no sediment, prolonging the life of the pump. Tap water may possess debris that comes with your water system, and this may irritate your pump, as well as the surface of your fountain.
How often should I clean my fountain? ›You should give your fountain a regular cleaning every three months to prevent any algae from gaining hold onto your fountains basin or pump. Placing your fountain in an area that has significant shade can also help to slow algae growth.
How do you turn off a water fountain? ›Hard-plumbed water fountain
The shut off valve is open when the lever is in line with the body of the valve. To turn it off simply turn the lever 90 degrees.
It is a well-populated, well-lit, and heavily policed area of Chicago. Visitors should feel quite safe in this neighborhood, especially during the day and evening.
Can you walk around with beer on Riverwalk? ›Yes, you can walk around with alcohol on River Walk.
River Walk is the type of place you might want to grab a drink to go while you explore.
All refuse must be disposed of in proper receptacles placed all along the route. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed unless purchased and consumed at a vendor's location. No outside food or drinks are welcome in vendor areas. Grilling on the Chicago Riverwalk is not permitted.
Does Buckingham Fountain run in winter? ›For the months that the fountain is open for it runs from 8 am to 11 pm daily. During the winter the entire fountain is lit up with Christmas lights. During the off months of winter The Buckingham Fountain is lit up with bright white lights to display all the features of the fountain.
What time is the fountain show at Safari Centre? ›Light and Music Fountain
The fountain is situated in the middle of the Centro Comercial Safari (Safari Shopping Centre) and the water begins to dance at 9pm every night.
Will a running fountain freeze? ›
Don't Run Your Fountain During the Winter
During the cold winter months, the water inside a fountain can freeze and expand as temperatures fluctuate, weakening and cracking the material of your fountain and damaging the pump.
The American National Standard Institute requires refrigerated drinking fountain water to be delivered at 40 to 50°F.
How long is the musical fountain show? ›| Location | Opposite Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium, Raj Bhavan Road |
|---|---|
| Show Duration | 30 minutes |
| Nearest Bus Stop | Raj Bhavan (260 m) |
| Nearest Metro Station | B.R Ambedkar Metro Station (850 m) |
| Maintained By | Department of Horticulture |
The Magic Fountain show lasts about 20 minutes and begin at 30 minute intervals, that means there are about ten minutes between show times to get into position – so get there early, wait for people to leave, and pounce!
How often does the fountain show happen in Vegas? ›Monday - Friday: There is a show every half hour from 3 p.m. - 8 p.m. and every 15 minutes from 8 p.m. - midnight. Saturdays: The show runs every half hour from noon - 8 p.m. and every 15 minutes from 8 p.m. - midnight.
Is Buckingham Place free? ›Exclusive Guided Tours are £90.00 per person. For our special Family Guided Tour, children (age 5-17) are £49.50 and under 5s are free.
Is it free to visit the Queen? ›Plan your visit
The Queen's House is free to visit, but you must have a ticket to enter. We recommend booking online in advance to avoid disappointment.