Free Things To Do In Chicago This July

If you’re living in the Windy City this summer or are looking for more reasons to travel there but don’t want to break the bank, that’s okay. 

Chicago is brimming with free events and attractions throughout the entire summer, as well as through this month of July.

From food to music festivals, dancing to live theater and art, Chicago is the place to be if you want to make a summer full of memories, on a budget. 

We’ve listed just a few of the many free things to do in Chicago this July and hope you’ll take the time to check them out. 

Explore Your Palate With The Taste Of Chicago

Known as one of the largest free admission food festivals in the world, Taste of Chicago is a large festival that is beloved by locals. 

Found in Grant Park, there are over 30 restaurants, stalls, pop-up shops, and more offering flavors from around the world. 

While you may need to pay for the individual cuisines from the different vendors to support these local businesses, there are free nightly concerts and dancing, which is a treat if you want to spend time with the community. 

Free Museum Days 

Chicago strives to support and encourage the local arts and culture scene as much as possible. 

This means offering free museum days at different museums across the city all summer long, so the entire family can enjoy. 

From the Chicago History Museum to the Adler Planetarium, the Museum of Contemporary Art and even the DuSable Museum of African American History. 

There is something for everyone to be explored in these one of a kind museums, offering fully free admission on certain days in the summer. 

Free Shows In Millennium Park 

The iconic Millennium Park offers all you could want out of a summer experience, with countless free shows and events all summer long. 

Not only is the venue renowned and beautiful, it will be offering free attractions in the summer such as major music festivals and movie screenings where you can watch the stars from below. 

There is the Millennium Park Summer Film series, which is brimming with award-winning movies and cult classics. 

Even the Millennium Park Music Series provides free shows by local and national artists where you can enjoy from a spot on the grass with friends and family.