Free family-friendly summer fun in Chicago

Summer in Chicago doesn’t have to break the bank. There are numerous ways for families to enjoy all that Chicago has to offer in the warmer months at no cost.

Downtown Chicago is the perfect destination for spending a day without spending a dime. Visit Millennium Park in the morning when the sun is quietly rising to greet the Bean. Snap some family photos and selfies by the iconic sculpture, and then take a stroll through Lurie Garden to see the beautiful seasonal vegetation. Cool off by splashing through Crown Fountain, and then check out the enchanted children’s Play Garden in Maggie Daley Park.

When hunger strikes, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, along the lakefront or at the beach. Choose from an abundance of family friendly beaches along the sparkling Lake Michigan, such as the 31st Street, 12th Street, Ohio Street, Oak Street or North Avenue beaches.

While away the afternoon with the animals at Lincoln Park Zoo or walk down Navy Pier, making sure to stop and play in the fountains in Polk Brothers Park. For a more active afternoon, bike or walk along the lakefront, the 606 Trail or the Riverwalk. Then cool off free of charge at one of Chicago’s family friendly public pools, like Holstein Park Pool in Bucktown, Wrightwood Park Pool in Lincoln Park or Hamlin Park Pool in Roscoe Village.

When evening falls, settle down in Millennium Park’s Pritzker Pavilion and treat your ears to some classical music. The Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus perform free concerts on Wednesdays and Fridays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. until Aug. 20.

Complete the day by catching the evening fireworks at Navy Pier on Wednesdays and Saturdays through Sept. 3.

If the weather isn’t cooperating, there are free options indoors. The Harold Washington Library’s Thomas Hughes Children’s Library offers customized learning experiences, materials, computers, events and more for children of all ages. Visit Chicago area museum websites to find out when they host free days for Illinois residents throughout the summer. The Garfield Park Conservatory has many free educational opportunities for children and families as well.

Mark your calendars for some of Chicago’s most popular free summer festivals and events. The Chicago Gospel Music Festival, a joyful family-friendly celebration featuring top artists will be held from 3-9 p.m. June 4 at the Pritzker Pavilion. The Chicago Blues Festival brings top talent to downtown from June 9-12 at the same venue, and the Chicago Air and Water Show will return to the lakefront on Aug. 20 and 21.