Being home from college for the summer is great. On days off from work, summer classes, internships, volunteering, and everything else going on in our busy lives, we need to have some fun. Everyone loves to have fun in the summer, but college kids don't necessarily want to or have a ton of money to spend. If you are lucky enough to live in the Chicagoland area, there is plenty of inexpensive things for you to do that are fun and will keep you busy!
1. Go to the Beach
North Avenue Beach, Ohio Street Beach, and Oak Street Beach are some of my favorite beaches. The beaches in Chicago are free to go to. Parking downtown can be pretty pricey, so the best way would to be split the cost between those in the car or take the train. Either way, a day at the beach is inexpensive and very relaxing.
2. Museums
Many of the Museums in Chicago offer free or discount days in the summer. The Museum of Contemporary Art is free for IL resdients on Tuesdays, Thursdays rom 5pm to 8pm the Art Institute is free for IL residents, and much more. Here is a list of discounts to Museums in Chicago
Visiting the Famous Bean on Michigan Avenue is always free. Stop by and take your picture in the mirrored giant bean and then head over to the Maggie Daly Park to play on now of the coolest playgrounds you will ever see. Millennium park also has Free Music Monday concerts, plays, yoga classes, festivals, and more. Here is a list of all the free events in Millennium Park this summer:
4. Zoos
The Chicago area is lucky enough to have 2 zoos, Brookfield and Lincoln Park. Lincoln Park Zoo is located in the heart of the city and offers free admission 365 days a year. Brookfield Zoo is located in the suburbs of Chicago and offers inexpensive admissions for a little more than $15 a person.
5. Bike Riding/ Rollerblading
Riding your bike or rollerblading is always fun and great exercise. You can ride along the lakefront and cool off on a hot summer day. Don't have your own bike? You can rent a Divvy bike in 30 minutes at a time as many times you like in 24 hours for only $10. Information on Divvy bikes can be found here.
6. White Sox Games
One of the best ways to spend a hot and sunny afternoon is at the ball park. for under $10 you can get tickets to the Sox Game in the upper deck for most games. Taking the train is also the best option if you don't want to pay to park.
7. Chicago Botanic Garden
Want to see some really pretty trees and flowers? The Chicago Botanic Garden offers free admission everyday.
8. Navy Pier
As an Iconic Chicago place, Navy Pier is free to go to everyday. It can get pricey to ride the Ferris Wheel and eat all the delicious foods, but if you are looking to walk around and sit by the lake, Navy Pier is the perfect place to go.
9. Montrose Dog Beach
Looking for something fun to do with your dog this summer? Don't have a dog but love Dogs? Montrose Dog Beach is unlike other beaches in Chicago. Dogs are welcome and it is loaded with them! Montrose Dog Beach is free and fun for both dogs and people.
