Chicago on a Budget, By a Local (Stay, Eat & Do It Cheaply)

👉  Jump to:Budget Tips |  Cheap & Free Things to Do |  Where to Stay |  Cheap Eats |  FAQ

I’m a Chicago local and in this guide, I explain exactly how to visit Chicago on a budget! 

This article is full of practical tips that will help you get the best bang for your buck. I also share tons of personal recommendations including free things to do, cheap eats, and affordable accommodations. You’re sure to save big with these insights, whether you’re a strict budget traveler or simply looking for the best value.

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9 Tips to Do Chicago on a Budget

Tip #1 – Take Public Transportation

Using public transportation is one of the best ways to save money and get around Chicago. Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) passes are affordable and can be used on all Chicago transportation (“L” trains and buses). This makes it easy and cheap to travel around Chicago.

There are train lines that connect both airports to downtown Chicago. The Blue Line goes to O’Hare International Airport and the Orange Line goes to Midway International Airport.

Tip #2 – Take Advantage of Free Museum Days (for Illinois Residents)

I highly recommend looking up free museum days if you’re an Illinois resident. This is one of the simplest and best ways to save money in Chicago. 

Many Chicago museums offer free admission on designated days throughout the year. This includes top museums like the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum, and the Shedd Aquarium, among others.

Just Google “X museum free days” and results should pop up. You’ll just need to verify your residence with a zip code.

Tip #3 – Bring a Student ID if You’re a Student

Be sure to carry your student ID in Chicago if you’re still in school. This ID can score you discounted admission (sometimes free) at tons of top Chicago attractions. Many museums even offer free admission to those under 18. Always be sure to ask about student discounts whether you’re in high school or college!

Tip #4 – Visit During the Off-Season

You can save some serious money by simply visiting Chicago during the off-season. This includes the months of January through March. I know, Chicago in the winter sounds awful but it’s a decent option if budgeting is a top priority. Airfare and hotel prices are much cheaper during this time. Plus, you can enjoy indoor attractions like museums without the crowds.

Tip #5 – Consider Staying in a Hostel

Chicago is home to a few hostels. There’s HI Chicago Hostel and Freehand Chicago in downtown Chicago, and Chicago Getaway Hostel in Lincoln Park. 

There are a variety of room types available at these hostels (think dorms, suites, and private rooms). They can be a great choice for young travelers, couples, and even families. Room rates range between $35 and $250 per night, depending on room type and the season. 

Tip #6 – Consider Staying Farther from the Loop (Downtown)

Consider staying farther away from downtown if you’re on a serious budget. Neighborhoods like Logan Square, Lakeview, Pilsen, and Chinatown may offer cheaper hotel and rental prices. However, these areas don’t have the same convenience and walkability to top tourist attractions as hotels in downtown Chicago.

📚 Related Reading: I highly encourage you to explore different Chicago neighborhoods if you have the time! Our 5-day Chicago itinerary includes a couple of popular neighborhoods outside the Loop and it’s a great trip planning resource. You can get a free, printable version of our Chicago itinerary here.

Tip #7 – Get a Chicago CityPASS

A Chicago CityPASS will save you 50% on admission to up to five attractions. It includes access to the Shedd Aquarium and Skydeck Chicago, plus three of the following: Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry, 360 Chicago Observation Deck, Adler Planetarium, and an architecture river cruise.

Tip #8 – Be Selective When Choosing Top Attractions

Be strategic when choosing top tourist attractions if you’re visiting on a budget. For example, don’t visit the observation decks at Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) and the John Hancock Building. Choose one instead.

You might also choose the Museum of Contemporary Art over the Art Institute for cheaper admission. Also, consider opting for the Lincoln Park Zoo over the Shedd Aquarium because the zoo is free. 

Tip #9 – Bring a Reusable Bag

Chicago has small fees that suburban and rural areas don’t have. This includes Chicago’s Checkout Bag Tax of $0.07. I know this sounds small and insignificant, but the little things add up if you’re on a budget. Add a reusable bag to your Chicago packing list to help save money. 

8 Cheap & Free Things to Do in Chicago

Millennium Park

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (312) 742-1168 | Hours: 6 am – 11 pm daily | Entrance: Free

No Chicago trip is complete without visiting Millennium Park in downtown Chicago. Head to Millennium Park to see Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) and places like Crown Fountain and Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Tons of festivals, free concerts, and events take place in Millennium Park, so check the event calendar before your trip!

📚 Related Reading: Millennium Park is a must-see if you only have one day in Chicago.

Lincoln Park Zoo

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (312) 742-2000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: Free

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the best free attractions in Chicago (if not the best). This zoo is engaging, fun, and perfect for all ages. It’s home to hundreds of species of animals from around the world, from lions and bears to monkeys and reptiles. 

Grant Park

📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free

Grant Park is a huge green space in the Chicago Loop that’s sandwiched between the city and Lake Michigan. There are many cool, free places worth exploring here. Millennium Park is located within Grant Park. You’ll also find Maggie Daley Park and Buckingham Fountain.   

Chicago Riverwalk

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 6 am – 11 pm daily | Entrance: Free

The Chicago Riverwalk is a free 1.25-mile pedestrian walkway along the Chicago River. This is the perfect place to people-watch and catch views of the city up close. From here, you’ll be able to spot many Chicago landmarks. I also recommend visiting the Riverwalk for ART on THE MART.

Lakefront Trail

📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free

A walk or bike ride along the Lakefront Trail is one of the best things to do in Chicago, regardless of budget. This scenic, 18-mile-long urban trail hugs the city’s Lake Michigan coastline. You can catch stunning Chicago skyline views and also reach popular Chicago beaches like North Avenue Beach and Ohio Street Beach. 

Chicago Cultural Center

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (312) 744-5000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: Free

The Chicago Cultural Center is an often-overlooked free attraction right across the street from Millennium Park. Stop in to see the world’s largest Tiffany glass dome along with other stunning architectural details. Wander through the art galleries and visit the museum gift shop before heading out!

Navy Pier

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (312) 595-7437 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 9 pm Mon-Thu & Sun, 11 am – 10 pm Fri & Sat | Entrance: Free

Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s top family-friendly attractions but it can be a great spot for budget travelers, too. It’s totally free to visit Navy Pier. Stroll along the pier and enjoy great views of the skyline and lake. There are also art installations and numerous free events to attend like concerts and fireworks shows. 

Free Walking Tours

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (312) 945-4231 | Website | Hours: Tour Times Vary | Entrance: Free

Schedule a Chicago Greeter tour if you’re looking for a unique, local experience on a budget. A knowledgeable local guides you through popular Chicago sites and neighborhoods on these free walking tours. Neighborhood tours last 2-4 hours. 

Where to Stay in Chicago on a Budget

The cheapest hotels and rental properties in Chicago are usually far away from downtown Chicago. This is inconvenient for first-time visitors and those wanting to experience popular tourist attractions. 

The following neighborhoods in Chicago aren’t the cheapest in the city, but they each have budget accommodations and provide more convenience. 

Chicago Loop

👉 Best Area For First-Time Visitors | ✨ Best Budget Hotel: citizenM Chicago Downtown

The downtown Chicago Loop is the best place to stay for first-time visitors. The Loop is perfect for exploring Chicago’s highlights with convenience and ease. Here, you can walk to Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, and tons of museums.

The Loop isn’t the cheapest area of Chicago. In fact, it’s one of the most expensive. However, the Loop grants you convenience and proximity to activities, shops, and restaurants. So, what you spend on accommodations can be made up for by saving time and money on transportation.

The citizenM Chicago Downtown is a well-rated hotel with reasonable prices compared to other options in the Loop. However, it’s important to note that hotel prices seriously fluctuate depending on the season. HI Chicago Hostel is another good budget-friendly place to stay. Prices remain relatively low throughout the year.  

River North

👉 Best Downtown Area For Young People on a Budget | ✨ Best Budget Hotel: Freehand Chicago

River North is a good area for young people who want to stay downtown on a budget. Similar to the Loop, River North isn’t a cheap area of Chicago. However, prices tend to be a tad cheaper than hotels in the Loop. And the proximity and convenience of River North can make up for other things. 

There are tons of great restaurants and trendy bars in River North, and there are lots of good shopping options nearby. Top tourist attractions like Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and museums are within walking distance. 

Freehand Chicago is one of the best budget-friendly hotels in River North. There are a variety of room choices at this hotel, too, so it’s reasonable to split if you’re traveling with friends or family. 

South Loop

👉 Best Area For Seeing Museums | ✨ Best Budget Hotel: Homewood Suites By Hilton Chicago Downtown South Loop

Staying in the South Loop makes it easy to visit popular museums. Generally, the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, and Shedd Aquarium are most easily accessed by bus or driving. However, staying in the South Loop will save you time and money on transportation.

There aren’t a ton of hotel options in the South Loop, but Homewood Suites is a solid choice with a good location. Room prices are also more affordable during the fall through spring. 

Cheap Eats in Chicago

Dining out at restaurants in Chicago is easily one of the most expensive parts of visiting Chicago. But it doesn’t have to be. Below is a short list of personal favorite spots where you can eat good food in Chicago on a budget. 

Redhot Ranch

Fast Food

📍Google Maps | Website | Price Range: $

Redhot Ranch is a local Chicago fast food joint with locations in Bucktown, Lakeview, and Bridgeport. This is one of the best places to eat in Chicago cheaply. You can get a cheeseburger and fries for less than $7 and a hot dog and fries for under $5. It’s cash only. 

5411 Empanadas

Argentinian

📍Google Maps | Website | Price Range: $

5411 Empanadas is one of my favorite budget-friendly restaurants in Chicago. There are locations in River North, Lakeview, and Wicker Park. The empanadas are only $3.75 each and there are tons of flavor choices. Plus, they’re tasty and filling. It’s the perfect, affordable place to grab lunch.

Sultan’s Market

Mediterranean

📍Google Maps | Website | Price Range: $

Sultan’s Market is a local Chicago favorite with locations in Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, and Logan Square. The shawarma and falafels are always tasty and portions are generous. You can get a sandwich for $5-$9 or a dinner plate (which is enough for two people) for $15. 

Pequod’s Pizza

Pizza

📍Google Maps | Website | Price Range: $$

Craving deep dish pizza on a budget? Head to Pequod’s just west of Lincoln Park. Pequod’s is known for its authentic Chicago-style pizza and it’s a local go-to. You can get a personal pan pizza for $8 at lunch and $11 for dinner. A large deep dish pizza is $25.  

McDonald’s Global Headquarters

Fast Food

📍Google Maps | Website | Price Range: $

“Global McDonald’s,” as locals call it, is a McDonald’s restaurant in the West Loop. It has everything you’d expect from a normal McDonald’s plus a bonus international menu. Stopping here is an easy way to eat on a budget and try something a little different. 

FAQs About Visiting Chicago on a Budget

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Things can be expensive but it is possible to visit Chicago on the cheap. Read our Chicago travel tips guide next for more helpful trip-planning information!