Chicago is known as one of the most romantic cities in the world. With its stunning skyline, beautiful parks, and amazing cultural attractions, it's no wonder why couples flock to this city for a romantic getaway. However, exploring Chicago can quickly become expensive, which is why we've compiled a list of free things to do for couples in Chicago.
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Free Things to Do for Couples in Boston
Visit the Smart Museum of Art
Thanks to the support of our SmartPartners, admission to the Smart Museum of Art is always free and open to all. As the fine arts museum of the University of Chicago, the Smart Museum of Art is a site for rigorous inquiry and exchange that encourages the examination of complex issues through the lens of art objects and artistic practice. https://smartmuseum.uchicago.edu/visit/
Take a stroll along the Lakefront Trail
The Lakefront Trail is one of Chicago's most popular attractions. This 18-mile trail runs along Lake Michigan and offers stunning views of the city's skyline. Take a romantic stroll or bike ride along the Chicago Lakefront Trail. Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, beaches, and the city skyline as you spend quality time together outdoors. There are also plenty of parks and beaches along the way where you can stop and have a picnic or relax. https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/lakefront-trail
Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest and most popular zoos in the country, and it's completely free to visit. The zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, bears, and more. Wander through the zoo's various exhibits and enjoy seeing a wide range of animals without spending a dime. https://www.lpzoo.org/
Spend time together in Grant Park
Spend time in Grant Park, known as Chicago's "front yard." Enjoy the beautiful landscaping, sculptures, and views of Buckingham Fountain. Pack a picnic and relax together in this scenic urban oasis. https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/grant-ulysses-park
Enjoy Neighborhood Festivals
Check out free neighborhood festivals and events happening throughout Chicago. From street fairs to music festivals, there's always something exciting happening in the city that you can enjoy together without breaking the bank. https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/festivals-special-events/chicago-festival-event-guide/
Explore the Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center is a stunning building that is home to some of the city's most impressive cultural exhibits. It's free to enter, and you can spend hours exploring the different galleries and exhibits. The building itself is also worth exploring, as it's one of the city's most iconic structures. Chicago Cultural Center 78 E. Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602 | https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_culturalcenter.html
Take a walk through Millennium Park
Millennium Park is one of Chicago's most famous attractions. The park is home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as "The Bean"), as well as the Crown Fountain and the Lurie Garden. It's a great place to take a leisurely walk and enjoy the scenery, and there are plenty of places to sit and relax. Take some fun photos together. Enjoy free concerts, exhibitions, and other events that often take place in this beautiful urban park. https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/millennium_park.html
Visit Hyde Park Art Center
Hyde Park Art Center is free and open to the public. Founded in 1939, the Hyde Park Art Center is at once a contemporary art exhibition space, learning lab, community resource, and social hub for artists and art-curious alike. It's a home for creativity and community. Stimulating and sustaining the visual arts in Chicago since 1939. Within its facility, the Art Center offers a comprehensive roster of programs that work in concert to make contemporary art more approachable. It does so by involving the community in dynamic engagement with art and artists through exhibitions, artist talks, studio art classes, an international residency program, free public events, and professional development opportunities for artists. 5020 S. Cornell Ave., Chicago IL 60615. https://www.hydeparkart.org/
Visit the Garfield Park Conservatory
The Garfield Park Conservatory is a beautiful indoor garden that is completely free to visit. The conservatory is home to thousands of plants from around the world, and it's a great place to escape the city and enjoy some peace and quiet. There are also plenty of educational exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. 300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60624 | https://garfieldconservatory.org/
Take a free walking tour
Chicago is home to many different free walking tours, which are a great way to explore the city's history and culture. Some popular tours include the Chicago Greeter program, which pairs visitors with a local resident who can show them around the city, and the Chicago Riverwalk tour, which explores the history of the city's famous river. https://freetoursbyfoot.com/chicago-tours/
Explore the Art Institute of Chicago for free
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the city's most famous cultural attractions and admission is free for Illinois residents on weekdays (Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays), November 27–December 22, 2023, as well as January 8–March 22, 2024.. And remember, admission is always free for members and children under 14. The museum is home to thousands of works of art from around the world, including famous pieces like Grant Wood's "American Gothic" and Edward Hopper's "Nighthawks". It's a great way to spend an evening exploring some of the world's most famous artwork. 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603 | https://www.artic.edu/visit
Visit Shedd Aquarium during free museum day
The Shedd Aquarium offers Illinois residents free access to all permanent exhibits, including special exhibits Underwater Beauty and seasonal Stingray Touch, on select dates throughout the year. https://www.sheddaquarium.org/plan-a-visit/get-tickets/discount-and-free-days
Take a free architecture tour
Chicago is famous for its architecture, and there are many free architecture tours available throughout the city. Some popular tours include the Chicago Loop Architecture Tour: this tour winds through Chicago’s Loop district giving our guests and up close and personal experience of some of the world’s most influential and gorgeous buildings. Another one is the Chicago Cultural Center Tours – the building tours reveal the storied history of the landmark Chicago Cultural Center – offered year round on Thursdays and Fridays at 1:15pm – these tours are FREE and led by volunteer docents and/or staff. https://freechicagowalkingtours.com/chicago-walking-tours/chicago-loop-architecture-tour/ | https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_culturalcenterbuildingtours.html
Check out the Chicago Public Library
The Chicago Public Library is one of the largest public libraries in the country, and it's completely free to visit. The library is home to thousands of books, as well as art exhibits, music performances, and other cultural events. It's a great place to spend an afternoon, and there are plenty of quiet reading rooms where you can relax and enjoy a good book. https://www.chipublib.org/
Take a walk through the Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk is a beautiful outdoor walkway that runs along the Chicago River. It's a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the views of the city's skyline. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes along the way where you can stop and grab a bite to eat. https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/chicagoriverwalk/home.html
Visit the National Museum of Mexican Art
The National Museum of Mexican Art is a free museum that celebrates Mexican culture and art. The museum is home to thousands of pieces of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles. It's a great way to learn more about Mexican culture and history, and there are also plenty of educational exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. Admission is always free to the Museum. We rely on the support of generous donors to help us keep our doors open and accessible to all visitors regardless of their ability to pay. https://nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org/visit
Take a bike ride on the 606
The 606 is an elevated trail that runs through four different Chicago neighborhoods. It's a great place to go for a bike ride or a leisurely walk, and there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby where you can grab a bite to eat. https://www.the606.org/
Explore the River North Art District
The River North Art District is a neighborhood in Chicago that is home to over 30 galleries and art studios. It's a great place to explore some of the city's best artwork, and many of the galleries offer free admission. It's also a great place to grab a bite to eat, as there are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby. https://www.chicagotraveler.com/shopping/river-north-gallery-district/
Visit the Oriental Institute Museum
The Oriental Institute Museum is a Suggested admission fee (payable at entry). The museum explores the history and culture of the ancient Middle East. The museum is home to thousands of artifacts and exhibits, including the famous Egyptian exhibit. It's a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the Middle East, and there are also plenty of educational exhibits and activities. 1155 E 58th St, Chicago, IL 60637 | https://oi.uchicago.edu/
Enjoy a free Concerts & Events in Millennium Park
Millennium Park is home to many free concerts and events throughout the year. The park's outdoor pavilion is a popular spot for concerts and other performances, and there are also plenty of other events and activities happening in the park throughout the year. https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/mp_calendar.html | https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/festivals-special-events/millennium-park-summer-music-series/
Check out the Museum of Contemporary Photography
The Museum of Contemporary Photography is a free museum that explores the world of contemporary photography. The museum is home to thousands of photographs and exhibits, and it's a great way to learn more about this fascinating art form. https://www.mocp.org/visit/
Top Free Things to do With Your Girlfriend
Take a free Dance class
Chicago is home to many different free dance classes, which are a great way to get moving and have some fun. Some popular classes include Chicago SummerDance series, which offers free dance lessons around the city. https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_summerdance.html
Visit the Chicago History Museum
The Chicago History Museum explores the history of the city. The museum is home to thousands of artifacts and exhibits, including the famous Chicago Fire exhibit. It's a great way to learn more about the city's history and culture, and there are also plenty of educational exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. The Museum offers free days to Illinois residents throughout the year, including commemorative days like Presidents’ Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and Fourth of July. https://home.chicagohistory.org/visit-us/
Visit Museum of Contemporary Art on Free Tuesdays
Take your girlfriend to the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago - one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to contemporary art. The Museum of Contemporary Art is always free for visitors under age 18 and Illinois residents receive free admission every Tuesday. Here, you can experience the work and ideas of living artists and understand the historical, social, and cultural context of the art of our time. https://mcachicago.org/
Take a free cooking class
Chicago is home to many different cooking classes, and many of them are completely free. Eating healthy doesn't have to be hard, come learn simple take home recipes that will have you eating good a feeling better. https://www.eventbrite.com/d/il--chicago/free--events/cooking-class/
Take a free yoga, pilates and zumba class
Chicago is home to many different free yoga classes, which are a great way to relax and unwind. Some popular classes include the Millennium Park Summer Workouts – From June through September, Millennium Park provides a unique outdoor studio where Chicagoans and visitors alike can be energized in the form of Summer Workouts. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, guests can enjoy free 45-minute classes on the Great Lawn including yoga, strength training, Pilates, and Zumba®. Sessions are accompanied by live music or local DJs playing the latest tracks.
Awesome Free Things to Do with Your Boyfriend
Visit The Museum of Science and Industry
Take your boyfriend to one of the largest science museums in the world and let him feel like a child again - The Museum of Science and Industry – that has both an illustrious history and a focus on the future of science and science education. Illinois residents receive free Museum Entry on selected dates. https://www.msichicago.org/visit/ticket-prices/offers-and-discounts/illinois-free-days/
Take a free brewery tour
Chicago is home to many different breweries, and many of them offer free tours. Some popular breweries that offer free tours include Lagunitas Brewing Company, Lake Effect Brewing Company, Begyle Brewing Company and Revolution Brewing. It's a great way to learn more about the brewing process and sample some great beers. https://www.choosechicago.com/blog/dining/all-the-cheap-even-free-brewery-tours-in-chicago/
Take your boyfriend to the Smart Museum of Art :)
Taking your boyfriend to the Smart Museum of Art in Chicago promises a captivating and enriching experience that transcends traditional date activities. Nestled within the vibrant University of Chicago campus, this cultural gem offers a diverse collection of artwork spanning centuries and continents. As you both wander through the museum's galleries, you'll encounter thought-provoking exhibitions that spark conversation and deepen your appreciation for the arts. https://smartmuseum.uchicago.edu/
Go Ice Skating at Millennium Park
Come experience a Chicago winter tradition, now in its 21st season. The McCormick Tribune skating rink in Millennium Park from November 17 through March 3, weather permitting. Admission to the ice rink is free, but online tickets are required. Ice skates can be rented for a fee. Visit MillenniumPark.org for details. https://millenniumparkfoundation.org/programs/winter-ice-skating/
Free Date Night Ideas
Enjoy the Navy Pier fireworks
If you're looking for a romantic evening activity, head to Navy Pier for their weekly fireworks show. The show is completely free to watch, and it's a great way to end a romantic evening. The fireworks are set off over Lake Michigan, so you'll have an amazing view of the city skyline as well. https://navypier.org/eat-drink-and-play/fireworks/
Neighborhood Events
Check out free neighborhood events happening throughout Chicago. From street fairs to music festivals, there's always something exciting happening in the city that you can enjoy together without breaking the bank. https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/festivals-special-events/chicago-festival-event-guide/
Watch a movie under the stars
During the summer months, many parks in Chicago offer free outdoor movie screenings. It's a great way to spend a romantic evening, and there are plenty of places to bring a picnic and relax. Some popular outdoor movie screenings include Movies on the Lawn at Lincoln Yards, Movies in the Parks and Millennium Park Summer Film Series. https://www.choosechicago.com/blog/free-cheap/outdoor-and-drive-in-movies-in-chicago/ | https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/movies-parks
Experience complimentary concerts and nighttime events at Millennium Park
Throughout the year, Millennium Park hosts a variety of free evening concerts and gatherings. The park's iconic outdoor pavilion becomes a vibrant hub for musical performances and entertainment, while a plethora of other nocturnal events and activities unfold under the city lights. https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/festivals-special-events/millennium-park-summer-music-series/
Overall, Chicago offers a plethora of free activities and attractions that provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable experience as a couple. Whether you're exploring the city's parks, enjoying cultural offerings, or attending free events, you're sure to create lasting memories without spending a fortune.
