Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo, located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood just north of the Magnificent Mile, is a full-fledged animal kingdom. It features a bear habitat, a lion house, a swan pond and a sea lion pool. The zoo is a great place to take a day long stroll and have a picnic. Another cheap way to go to the zoo is to hop on public transportation and save money on parking.
Lincoln Park Zoo
2200 N. Cannon Dr.
Chicago, Illinois 60614
(312) 742-2000
lpzoo.com
The Oprah Winfrey Show
Oprah Winfrey's talk show is taped in Chicago, and it's free to be part of the studio audience. Tourists can get free tickets with a phone call, but be forewarned: Since many people are dialing the same number, it will take some patience to get through.
The Oprah Winfrey Show
1058 W. Washington St.
Chicago, Illinois 60607
(312) 591-9222
oprah.com/tows
Navy Pier
Admission to Navy Pier, one of the city's largest and most popular attractions, is free. Some of the individual attractions on the pier cost money, but there is plenty to do for free. Take in the Smith Museum of Stained Glass or one of the free concerts during the summer and it won't cost a penny.
Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Ave.
Chicago, Illinois 60611
(312) 595-7437
navypier.com
Millennium Park
Millennium Park, in the heart of the downtown area, is a must-see free attraction. The 24.5-acre park is full of fascinating public art and design, featuring the interactive Crown Fountain and the Cloud Gate sculpture. The park is a perfect place to take a walk, lie in the sun and people watch or have a picnic. The park is open 6 a.m to 11 p.m. daily.
Millennium Park
201 E. Randolph St.
Chicago, Illinois 60601
(312) 742-1168
millenniumpark.org
About The Author
Brendan O'Brien is a professional journalist in Milwaukee, Wis. He has worked for several news organizations, newspapers such as the "Milwaukee Journal Sentinel" and trade magazines during his 15-year career. He is currently a freelance writer who works for several publications.
