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10 Cities on a Shoestring

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No doubt about it: the economy's putting the squeeze on American families right now. But who needs a five-star resort and pricey admission fees to have five-star family fun? Cheap -- and in many cases, free -- opportunities for exploration and memory-making abound all over the country. Take a look at some of the coolest finds we've identified in 10 of America's top cities. And if you know of other cheap travel treats, please log in and share. We'd love to hear about them!

#1 of 10:  Chicago, Illinois

Chicago

The Windy City is known for its fun vibe and friendly personality, which carry through its many unmissable, world-class attractions. In addition to strolling the always-free Navy Pier, you may be surprised to learn that you can also take part in a number of other Chi-town activities for next to nothing:

  • The Art Institute of Chicago
    Free admission on Thursdays, from 5 p.m.-8 p.m.

    Plan an early evening out and take advantage of free admission to view one of the most impressive art collections in the world. Little ones will enjoy the Thorne Miniature Rooms, and the Arms and Armor collection. Teens will be in awe of famous works by the likes of Seurat and Monet.

  • The Lincoln Park Zoo
    Free.

    That's right – the zoo is completely free, and you'll find thousands of animals, from apes to flamingoes. Avoid the pricey parking lot by seeking a spot further west, and enjoy a pre- or post-zoo stroll in the ultra-cool Lincoln Park neighborhood.

  • Millennium Park
    Free. From November to March, it's also free to ice skate; $10 to rent skates.

    Super steel sculptures, free entertainment, and picnicking on the grass – all are in store at this all-new Chicago gathering place, which adjoins Grant Park. In winter, lace up your skates and glide on the 16,000-foot ice rink.

And for more ideas from the locals, visit our Chicago and Midwest Travelers Group.

Next: San Francisco

Next City on the Cheap: San Francisco

Member Comments On...

10 Cities on a Shoestring

oldsrocket88
oldsrocket88 says:
May 27, 2009

I went to MS&I in chicago a few years ago on a free day and it was a mad house. I would suggest paying admission it is a lot less bussy and worth the admission to avoid the crowds.

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ellorybisk
ellorybisk says:
February 10, 2009

Hi Gang, Ellory from Chicago here. It's true that Chicago is a great place to visit. Here's another tip. Check out the Field Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry Calendars before you go. They too have free days! This does not include special events or special exibits. But hey...free is free! And there's alot to see without the special stuff!

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PeaPod54
PeaPod54 says:
January 16, 2009

In Los Angeles, there's this great place in Manhattan Beach called Sand Dune Park, with a playground and a huge sand dune kids love to climb down. It's a real challenge for them! You climb up on wood stairs to the left side of the dune, through a jungle-like kind of setting, and then it's a sandy, steep leap to the bottom. Last time we went it was uncrowded, easy, and so much fun! Totally free, of course.

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