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5 Incredibly Fun Free Things To Do In Illinois

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Illinois is home to so many notable destinations for tourists, or for locals looking to live like a tourist for the weekend. A surprising number of these attractions won’t even cost you and your family a dime. There is plenty to do in the city of Chicago, but throughout Illinois, you will also find some cool destinations worth taking a trip for. Here are 5 very fun free things to do in Illinois.

1. The Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, Illinois

INE Tours
INE Tours

The Lincoln Park Zoo is well known not only for their delightful animal exhibits but for its lack of admission charge. That’s right, this zoo is completely free every day. We’re serious! The zoo is definitely the most special of all the free things to do in Illinois. They are able to operate due to donations, as well as the occasional special event after closing for a small price.

The zoo is home to beautiful birds, adorable penguins, friendly sea lions, and so much more. This is a great choice for families with children of all ages, especially considering that admission for a family can really add up. One cost that could pop up is parking, so plan ahead to check what is best for you.

2. Cantigny Park, Wheaton, Illinois

theswishers.com
theswishers.com

This famous park was made a possibility by a gift from Robert McCormick. The park includes over 500 acres of property, housing numerous historical museums, gardens full of bright flowers and plenty of educational activities for all ages. The vast majority of attractions do not charge admission. Therefore making the park one of the best and most diverse free things to do in Illinois.

Cantigny Park is also home to a well-known golf course that unfortunately is not free. But feel free to use the money saved visiting the rest of the park to get a couple of rounds of golf in.

3. The Lincoln Tomb, Springfield, Illinois

mcgady.net
mcgady.net

This famous destination is a staple for school buses filled will midwestern students on educational field trips. The historic site is the final resting place of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. The educational aspects of this destination make it a perfect choice for families with children of all ages. There is no admission to visit the monument. Simply head over to Springfield, Illinois and visit the famous Oak Ridge Cemetery.

4. Chicago Botanic Garden, Chicago, Illinois

thousandwonders.net
thousandwonders.net

The Chicago Botanic Garden is a majestic destination for adults and kids alike. Visitors can stroll through twenty-six different gardens showcasing a vast array of colorful and unique florals. Just like the rest of the destinations on this list, the admission for the botanical gardens is absolutely free. That’s right! The garden is the perfect place to bring family and other loved ones. Considering all you can get, the garden is one of the best free things to do in Illinois.

Sometimes, however, parking may come at an added cost. So it’s best to check out their website in advance to plan ahead for that part of the trip. I would strongly recommend this trip for families. In the summertime, the botanical garden offers all kinds of educational activities that children will enjoy.

5. Garden Of The Gods, Herod, Illinois

backpacker.com
backpacker.com

For those that enjoy exploring the outdoors, visiting the Garden of the Gods in Illinois is an absolute must. Just like many other well-known Illinois outdoor attractions, there is no admission cost to visit. The Garden of the Gods offers beautiful views, sightseeing and plenty of hiking. This visit might be better suited for adults and teens, as some of the hiking can be strenuous but definitely worth the effort.

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