Five Free Family Fun Ideas to Do in Chicago

Only Five? Are you kidding? There are many activities you can do with your family that are both kid friendly and pocketbook friendly. This guide will help you get started on the road to fun and when you are done you can afford to go back home.

Of course, depending on where you live, there are transportation costs involved, but you may want to consider public transportation to avoid the hassle and expense of parking and to save money on gas. On the other hand, if you have many children involved, driving one vehicle may still be cheaper than purchasing several tickets for the subway, elevated trains, or metra trains to get into the city.

Lincoln Park Zoo has always been a favorite destination for families. The zoo is located on the near north side, just a few minutes from downtown and right near the lake front. Although much smaller than Brookfield Zoo, Lincoln Park Zoo gives children an opportunity to see a variety of animals up close and personal, and it is free, everyday. To be fair, Brookfield Zoo offers free admission during its fall season. This is a good time to go because children are in school, so the crowds are greatly reduced.

After visiting Lincoln Park Zoo, our next stop is just on the other side of Lake Shore Drive. Why not bring a picnic basket and sit down for lunch at a park or even on the beach on the shores of Lake Michigan. If it is warm enough, you may even want to test the water. Yes, it could be cold and at times the beaches have been closed due to bacterial concerns. But it is free, everyday.

If the beach is not your thing, or you tried it and are ready for more, then go a little farther south on Lake Shore Drive to Grant Park. If you didn't like the lunch at the beach idea, then maybe you would prefer to eat here. You can easily find a park bench and shade and there is plenty of space for the kids to roam and still be within reach. While you are there, you can listen to your choice of concerts in the park. There are many festivals though out the summer season, including the Air and Water Show. A seat in Grant Park would provide an excellent vantage point.