Budget-friendly ways to enjoy summertime in Chicago? Here’s what Sun-Times readers told us
As summertime approaches in Chicago there are myriad opportunities to over-spend while trying to enjoy the warm weather — while it lasts.
From music festivals to fancy dining it may seem like going outside can cost a fortune if you are on a budget. A four-day pass for Lollapalooza starts at $409, and that’s before you’ve spent any money on food, drinks or finding your way home.
We were curious to know how Sun-Times readers enjoy the summer without spending a lot, so we asked:
What’s one way to enjoy summertime in Chicago on a budget?
Responses below have been lightly edited for clarity and readability.
“Navy Pier fireworks every Wednesday and Saturday! Doesn’t get better than that”
— Mimisita Besitosz
“Chicago Park District has movie nights, concerts, and all kinds of free events.”
— Alma Flores
“I love going on a bike ride from Diversey and Harlem to the lake. Then you can ride up and down the lakefront.”
— Brice Notardonato Ellett
“Take public transportation to the Museum Campus — spend days visiting the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium and Shedd Aquarium. Try to schedule on free admission days.”
— Jan Tee Cra
“Kick it in the backyard with music and liquor. As long as the weather is good … you can’t beat that.”
— Brian Althimer
“The beach is fun. The zoo is fun. They are both free, and so are the conservatories.”
— Patricia McDonald
“Take public transportation downtown and do an architectural tour on the Chicago River. You won’t be disappointed!”
— Kevin Sheridan
“Take the train to the city. You’ll avoid parking fees. Buy a city pass. It allows access to all of the tourist-type stuff for one price. CTA transit is decent and timely, get that too. It’s summertime, start walking around and enjoy the beautiful city.”
— Evan Carson
“Visit a different public park each weekend. At the beginning of the summer, I map out different areas of the city and see how many parks are there and the neighborhood restaurants, local shops, and thrift stores nearby. If I feel like packing food up, then I can do it for $10-50 per person (depending on how much stuff you buy at the thrift store.) LOL”
— Toni Asantelightfoot
“Stay away from River North. When going out on the town. It’s a tourist trap. Lincoln Park, Wrigleyville, Southport Corridor, and Bucktown/Wicker Park/ Ukrainian Village area are great and Real Chicago!”
— Erik B Davis
“A nice walk on lake shore, the view of the growing city amazes me. Every time a new building is being built adding a modern landscape next to the natural blue water. What else and where else can you witness this?”
— Set Gozo
“Neighborhood festivals.”
— Erick Lawrence
💡Free Festivals in Chicago Summer 2024
Chicago Blues Festival
June 6 – 9, 2024
Ramova Theatre, 3520 S. Halsted St.
Grant Park Music Festival
June 12 – Aug. 17, 2024
Exact location varies
Chicago Jazz Festival
Aug. 29 – Sept. 1, 2024
Millennium Park
World Music Festival
Sept. 20 – 29, 2024
Chicago Cultural Center and Citywide
