Outdoors

Enjoy a break from the city's urban side at the Chicago Botanic Garden and stroll through miles of bucolic landscapes. The garden also boasts more than 200 bird species, a sculpture collection, and plant varieties from across the world. During spring and summer, gardens are open from 8 a.m. until sunset, for free.

Enter a world of colossal animal sculptures, beekeeping demonstrations, and a Children's Garden at the Garfield Park Conservatory. Often referred to as "landscape art under glass," the conservatory grows thousands of plants every year. Admission is free as are the various programs and exhibits. The conservatory also offers plenty of free, family-fun activities—like scavenger hunts and story readings—almost every weekend during the spring and summer.

In the middle of Lincoln Park lies a free conservatory with four display houses: the Palm House, Fern Room, Orchid House, and Show House.

The Chicago Park District shows free classic and contemporary films outdoors at dusk from June through September in parks city-wide. Grab a blanket and unwind while watching The Wizard of Oz in the fresh summer air.