i have called chicago home for just over four years now and think it is one of the most amazing cities in the world (just my humble opinion). i continue to discover some pretty awesome things that make life here enjoyable, and thought i'd share some of the lesser known ones to add to popular favorites (which include
free museum days,
summer dance, movies in the park, and
downtown sound). this list is compiled particularly with my several new-to-chicago friends in mind :)
the cultural center- international screenings program
the cultural center offers an incredible variety of special events and exhibits. the one that i want to highlight is my personal favorite- the international screenings program, which is free and open to the general public. for six months out of the year the cultural centers shows one international film two days/week. these films are from around the world and difficult to see otherwise, and often include a Q&A or discussion after.
claudia cassidy theater
78 e. washington st
the pedway
the pedway system is a fairly recent discovery of mine (recent relative to the time i've been in chicago). it's made up of underground walkways and overhead bridges that connect 50+ buildings and CTA stations downtown. because my work building is connected to the pedway, it's a great way for me to squeeze in a walking break, avoid bad weather, and explore the random shops that call the pedway their home.
chicago public library- money smart financial literacy classes
again, a wealth of programs and services, but i want to highlight its 'money smart' financial literacy classes, which are free and held at libraries across the city. topics of interest include home buying, retirement planning, and understanding credit. there is a special concentration of programs available during 'money smart week' every april. although helpful for anyone, i would particularly recommend these classes for my 20-something peers who may just be starting their personal finance journey, and need to start smart.
chicago park district- fitness centers
now, this might not be for you if you are very much into working out and need loads of "how the heck do i use this?" equipment and such. i definitely do not fit in this category. in fact, when i was exploring fitness center options my priorities were:
1. low cost
2. minimal commitment (in terms of contracts)
3. proximity to my home/work
that tells you how much i really care about working out. still, i think the park district's fitness centers are a fantastic option if you just need a few cardio machines or weights to do some basic training, and don't care about additional frills (i.e. fancy locker rooms, juice bars, etc). the one i joined on the northside was extremely clean and had very little traffic, so that i never had to wait for a machine or anything. true, the hours are a bit limited, but the benefits include:
1. option to buy a monthly, 3 month, or annual pass.
2. low fees, which are about $15 for a monthly pass; $45/3 month; and $150/annual (at a single site, not multiple fitness center locations- these passes are more expenseive).
3. FEE WAIVER PROGRAM with MD's prescription. THAT'S RIGHT FOLKS! if you meet the guidelines
listed here, you will receive a free 3 month pass.
water taxi
a great alternative to the architectural boat tours if you want to enjoy the river but are okay missing out on the commentary. the michigan ave to chinatown route takes about 20min, and costs $6 one way on a weekday or $8 round trip (which actually gets you an all day pass). the prices are bit more expensive on the weekend and on holidays. i was tickled to meet a passenger once for whom the water taxi was their mode of commute- an unlimited 31 day pass is just $60!
fares
i actually really enjoyed compiling this list, it made me realize how many great, low-cost/free programs are available to chicago residents. please share any additional recommendations in the comments!
