As the start of the school year approaches, with Chicago Public Schools students returning on August 18, families still have plenty of opportunities to make the most of summer.
Whether seeking free activities to keep children engaged or hoping to enjoy budget-friendly options, the following events and attractions offer fun for the whole family this month.
### Free Museum Days
Families looking to escape the heat can find refuge in Chicago’s many museums offering free admission for Illinois residents.
The Art Institute of Chicago is hosting a temporary exhibition featuring the impressionist works of Gustave Caillebotte, along with its extensive collection of modern art and historical artifacts. Residents can visit for free from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays until September 25.
At the Adler Planetarium, visitors can marvel at the stars, view the Gemini 12 spacecraft from NASA’s Project Gemini, and explore various meteorite fragments. Free admission for Illinois residents is available every Wednesday from 4 to 10 p.m.
The Chicago Botanic Garden, located in the north suburbs, provides a stunning environment along with daily activities, classes, and walking tours. Free admission is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays for nonmembers who register online prior to their visit.
The Chicago History Museum will feature free days for Illinois residents with proof of residency on August 13 and 28. Visitors can explore a special exhibition focusing on protest art from the 1960s and 1970s, showcasing over 100 posters, signs, and fliers.
### Millennium Park Summer Series Concerts
Millennium Park will host a variety of free summer concerts.
On Monday, an exhilarating performance from the 16-piece Orchestra Resavoir, led by Chicago producer and composer Will Miller, will take place at Jay Pritzker Pavilion. The event will also feature talented performances from Isaiah Collier alongside DJs Sonny Daze and King Hippo.
Additionally, Caramelo Haze is set to perform on Thursday, part of the Ten City: Grammy Legacies and Looking Ahead event, with DJ Emmaculate also scheduled to play.
### Millennium Park Summer Workouts
Every Saturday until August 30, fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of free 45-minute workouts on the Millennium Park Great Lawn at Wrigley Square from 8 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
The offerings include various classes such as yoga, Pilates, cardio kickboxing, and Zumba.
Afterwards, attendees can enjoy a brunch at the Double Clutch Plaza restaurant located beneath the iconic Bean, where they will receive a complimentary mimosa with the purchase of an entrée upon showing their workout mat.
### Free Walking Tours
For those interested in exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, free self-guided walking tours are available.
These tours take visitors through areas such as Pilsen, Little Italy, and Chinatown, highlighting each community’s rich cultural and culinary history.
Additionally, a downtown audio tour is available for a nominal fee of $3.99, while historical ghost tours are offered with a guided option for $29.99.
### Movies in the Park
The Chicago Park District continues to host free movies in the park throughout August at various locations.
With offerings ranging from Hollywood classics to family-friendly favorites like “Moana 2” and “Mufasa,” there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Movies begin at dusk, running through September 13. For a full schedule, residents can check online or call the Chicago Park District for updates and weather-related changes.
### Fishing on the Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Park District is providing a free fishing program at The Jetty on Wacker Drive, which runs every Thursday through Saturday until September.
Families can take part in this enjoyable activity while fishing for a variety of species, including yellow perch, carp, bluegills, and rock bass.
All necessary fishing gear, including poles, bait, and instruction, is available at no cost, making it accessible for fishers of all ages and experience levels.
With so many exciting opportunities available, Chicago families can enjoy the final days of summer without stretching their budgets.
image source from：chicago
