56 Free Things To Do in Chicago This Summer With Kids

It's a block party on State Street with Sundays on State. Photo courtesy of the Chicago Loop Alliance
It's a block party on State Street with Sundays on State. Photo courtesy of the Chicago Loop Alliance
5/26/24 - By Siobhan Adcock

Having free things to do in Chicago will keep kids busy and happy throughout the summer without taxing your wallet. And you might be surprised at just how many family-friendly summer events in Chicago cost absolutely nothing. Of course, the city's playgrounds and splash pads are always free, but it's in the summertime that free things to do in Chicago really ramp up. 

As you can see from this bursting-at-the-seams list, there's almost something fun and free to do every single day of the summer—so there's no excuse for anyone to be bored. Outdoor movies, summer festivals, street fairs, concerts and performances, public art, cultural celebrations, and picnics–and you can leave your wallet at home for all of it! (In theory, at least. There's always ice cream to buy...)

Looking for more? Our list of 100 Things to Do With Chicago Kids Before They Grow Up will do the trick, and find all the summer fun in our Ultimate Chicago Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

More Free Things To Do in Summer in Chicago

Free Concerts | Free Outdoor Movies

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Places featured in this article:


Naperville Parks

Millennium Park, Jay Pritzker Pavilion

Naperville Community Concert Center

State Street from Madison to Lake

Millennium Park, Jay Pritzker Pavilion & Great Lawn

DuSable Museum of African American History

Northbrook Metra Station Parking Lot