Just for Fun: 10 Free Things to Do With Your Kids in Chicago

Everyone is looking for ways to beat the heat this summer without breaking the bank, right?

If you live in Chicago, you are in luck because we have numerous places to visit that are safe for the whole family- and will not cost a dime! Thanks to www.chicagokids.com for putting this great list together!

Ten Free Summer Activities around Chicagoland

10. Fosco Park Water Playground. Among other things, Fosco Park boasts a fantastic, free water playground. The outdoor playground is a great place to cool down and have fun this summer. www.chicagoparkdistrict.com

9. Explore a coal mine, visit a castle, and experience a “science storm.” Do all of this at the Museum of Science and Industry. The museum offers free days on August 30, September 7-14, 20-21, and 27-28.

8. Exercise your brain. Weather unbearable? Stay indoors and read a good book or play some fun educational games. Editors Note: And of course we have to mention that our own site, www.schoodoodle.com, is a great source of Educational Games as well

7. Movies on the big screen. Regal Theaters hosts a free family festival at theaters across Chicagoland. Some movies include, Polar Express, Madagascar, Shrek the Third, and more.

6. Check out Tall Ships Chicago. From August 24-29 walk around Navy Pier in an atmosphere that reflects Chicago’s maritime history.

5. Traverse the waterfalls of Garfield Park. The Garfield Park Conservatory houses sprawling plants and two exhibition halls of exotic botanic gardens. Stop by on Saturday or Sunday between 1-3pm for a “Family Make & Take” activity.

4. Do something creative. Every Tuesday explore themes from the art on view with free, all-ages, hands-on art experiences. Join the Museum of Contemporary Art from 11 am – 2 pm on the front plaza and from 5 – 8 pm on the terrace.

3. Dazzling fireworks display. In the mood for a stroll along Navy Pier? If you happen to be there on Wednesday at 9:30pm or Saturday at 10:15pm, you will experience a spectacular fireworks show, synchronized to multiple music soundtracks.

2. Family fun at Millennium Park. From now until September 3, from 10am-3pm, enjoy performances for families and hands-on activities. Events will take place in the Family Fun Tent, located at the Promenade North.

1. Eyes to the sky and to the waters. A Chicago classic, the Chicago Air and Water Show is the largest free spectator event in the country. Travel to North Avenue beach August 14-15 to enjoy the festivities. www.exporechicago.org

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