Summer’s finally here and many people have no idea what to do with all the free time that’s now available to them because they’re unaccustomed to so much spare time! Well, good news! If you’re in the Chicagoland area or are a resident of Illinois, then there are many free or discounted days coming up in countless museums, amusement parks, and aquariums right near you! Here’s a brief guide to ensure you have the most exhilarating summer of your life!
1. The Museum of Science and Industry
If you’re interested in the advanced reform of gadgets or vehicles, this is definitely the place for you!
Visit for free on:
| June | 1-3, 6-8 |
| 6-9, 12-16, 19-23, 26-30 | |
| October | 4-6 |
| November | 3, 10 |
| December | 1 |
2. The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago
The perfect building for those with an art-related aesthetic! Visit on any Tuesday of the year for free!
3. The Field Musuem
Interested in historical artifacts? Visit this museum for a tour of the past! Arrange your free visit on June 21, 22, or 23.
4. The Shedd Aquarium
This aquarium has every sea animal you could imagine, so if this is your forte then check your calendar if you’re free on the following days for complimentary or discounted admission!
| June | 6, 7, 13, 14 |
| August | 29, 30 |
| September | 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 |
| October | 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 |
| November | 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 |
5. The Art Institute of Chicago
This museum is voted as #1 in the world, so definitely check it out if you haven’t already! It's even better that the Art Institute of Chicago is free for Illinois residents every Thursday from 5:00-8:00 p.m. throughout the year!
6. The Adler Planetarium
This situation is filled with thrilling experiences, such as feeling like an astronomer and undergoing how life would be in space! The Planetarium is free June 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, and 15!
7. Six Flags
If you’re not into museums, art, or animals, but rather into amusement, then I definitely recommend Six Flags; a park full of roller coasters and thrill! Six Flags is expected to open virtual reality coasters soon too. If you have a season pass at Six Flags, then you can bring a friend free to the park on the following days:
| June | 2-3, 6-10 |
| July *Gold Pass Holders Only | 11-15 |
| August | 15-18, 22-25 |
Now that you’re aware of all these amazing opportunities, you’re ineligible to claim that you’re ‘bored’. On top of that, being broke isn’t an issue either! To gain these benefits, all you have to do is simply just show proof that you’re a resident of Illinois. The places above all consider driver’s license and ID as proof of residency. Enjoy!
*All dates are valid throughout 2016!
