The Lakeview/Lincoln Park area is one of the best in Chicago on a nice spring day. With plenty of parks, beach access and great shopping options, you can easily fill a day walking around the area. If you’re looking for some specific things to do and are also looking to save a few dollars, we’ve put together a list of some free activities. Check them out below.
One of the most popular free places in all of Chicago is the Lincoln Park Zoo. The whole zoo is free to enter, including the kids zoo and the “Farm-in-the-Zoo” area. It’s a fantastic way to spend a warm, sunny spring day.
The Lincoln Park Zoo is located at 2001 N Clark Street. Learn more at LPZoo.org.
Just north of the Lincoln Park Zoo is the Lincoln Park Conservatory. It’s also free. Inside the conservatory you’ll find tropical plants and ancient ferns. Outside you’ll find beautifully landscaped gardens, perfect for strolling or lounging with a good book.
The Lincoln Park Conservatory is located at 2391 N Stockton Drive. Learn more at https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/lincoln-park-conservatory.
Just south of Lincoln Park is the Chicago History Museum. It is free to Illinois residents every Tuesday, with a handful of exceptions. If you want to have a fun afternoon while learning some interesting facts about Chicago’s history, this is the place to do. The museum features interactive exhibitions (including a giant Chicago hot dog!), short-term exhibitions, events and more.
The Chicago History Museum is located at 1601 N Clark Street. Learn more at Chicagohistory.org.
The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a great time for people of all ages. Learn about the different plants and animals that live in the area, hang out in the butterfly room and enjoy the museum’s outdoor spaces. The museum is free to Illinois residents every Thursday (a suggested donation is requested).
The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is located near the Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory at 2430 N Cannon Drive. Learn more at Naturemuseum.org.
Being in Lakeview or Lincoln Park means you have fast, easy access to the beach. It’s one of the best free places to spend an afternoon. From people watching to volleyball with friends to simply catching some rays, the beach is always a great choice.
