Free Things to Do in Chicago Suburbs This Weekend
As a born-and-rasied Chicagoan, I’ve always loved exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and world-renowned attractions. But sometimes, it’s nice to escape the hustle and bustle for a day or two in the surrounding suburbs. And while there are plenty of great things to do in the suburbs, there are also many free activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
If you’re looking for a fun and affordable way to spend a weekend in the Chicago suburbs, here are a few ideas to get you started:
Explore Morton Arboretum in Lisle
With over 1,700 acres of land, Morton Arboretum is a beautiful place to visit any time of year. The arboretum features a variety of gardens, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a children’s garden. There are also miles of hiking trails, a treetop canopy walk, and a visitor center with exhibits on trees and nature.
Admission to Morton Arboretum is free, but there is a parking fee of $10 per vehicle. The arboretum is open daily from 7 am to sunset.
Visit the Brookfield Zoo in Brookfield
The Brookfield Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the United States, with over 450 species of animals from around the world. The zoo is home to a variety of exhibits, including the Great Bear Wilderness, the Regenstein African Journey, and the Seven Seas Panorama. There are also rides, shows, and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
Admission to the Brookfield Zoo is free for Illinois residents on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The zoo is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.
Go for a hike at the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien
Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is a 2,500-acre forest preserve that features miles of hiking trails, a waterfall, and a lake. The preserve is a great place to go for a hike, a bike ride, or a picnic. There are also several picnic areas, playgrounds, and fishing spots in the preserve.
Admission to Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is free. The preserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Visit the Cantigny Park in Wheaton
Cantigny Park is a 500-acre park that features a formal garden, a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and a children’s garden. The park also has a golf course, a picnic area, and a playground. There are also several historic buildings on the grounds of the park, including the Cantigny First Division Museum.
Admission to Cantigny Park is free. The park is open daily from 8 am to sunset.
Attend a free concert at the Ravinia Festival in Highland Park
The Ravinia Festival is a summer music festival that features a variety of concerts, from classical to rock. The festival is held at the Ravinia Pavilion, a beautiful outdoor amphitheater. There are several free concerts offered throughout the summer, so be sure to check the festival’s website for more information.
The Ravinia Festival is open from June to September. Free concerts are typically held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Tips and Expert Advice
Here are a few tips and expert advice for making the most of your free weekend in the Chicago suburbs:
- Do your research. There are many great free things to do in the Chicago suburbs, so it’s important to do your research and find activities that interest you.
- Pack a picnic. Many of the parks and forest preserves in the suburbs have picnic areas, so pack a lunch and enjoy a meal outdoors.
- Bring your camera. There are many beautiful places to take pictures in the suburbs, so be sure to bring your camera to capture the memories.
- Be prepared for the weather. The weather in the suburbs can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the forecast before you head out and dress accordingly.
- Have fun! The Chicago suburbs are a great place to spend a weekend, so relax and enjoy your time.
FAQ
- Q: What are some of the best free things to do in the Chicago suburbs?
- Q: What are some tips for making the most of a free weekend in the Chicago suburbs?
- Q: Are there any free things to do in the Chicago suburbs during the winter?
A: There are many great free things to do in the Chicago suburbs, including exploring Morton Arboretum, visiting the Brookfield Zoo, going for a hike at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve, visiting Cantigny Park, and attending a free concert at the Ravinia Festival.
A: Here are a few tips for making the most of your free weekend in the Chicago suburbs: do your research, pack a picnic, bring your camera, be prepared for the weather, and have fun!
A: Yes, there are several free things to do in the Chicago suburbs during the winter, such as visiting the Brookfield Zoo (free on Tuesdays and Thursdays for Illinois residents), going for a hike at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve, visiting Cantigny Park, and ice skating at the McAninch Sports Complex in Glen Ellyn.
Conclusion
I hope this article has given you some ideas for free things to do in the Chicago suburbs this weekend. With so many great activities to choose from, you’re sure to find something that you’ll enjoy.
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