15 Amazing Free Tourist Attractions in the Midwest
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
From photographing one of the best skylines in the country, to exploring amazing cultural institutions, to hiking at one of the country’s only free national parks, there is plenty of free fun to be had in the Midwest. Below are a few of the best free tourist attractions throughout the Midwest. Note that all attractions featured here are free (outside of any minor parking fees). For those seeking a budget friendly trip, there are many exciting city attractions, beautiful parks, and fun events to keep your itinerary jam packed. I have lived in both Illinois and Ohio, went to college in Michigan, and have taken many roadtrips throughout the region. This includes some of my favorite places.
Of course, there are many more fabulous things to do (both free and paid), however, this list serves as a great starting point.
1. Chicago Lakefront Path
Location: Downtown Chicago
A ride along this lengthy 18 mile long paved recreational path along gorgeous Lake Michigan is one of the best ways to take in the country’s most magnificent skyline. Chicago’s skyline is the best in the county imo and this bike path is the best urban recreational path. The scenery is beautiful throughout with unending views of the beautiful cityscape. Another benefit is being able to take in some of the city’s top rated attractions conveniently, without hassling with traffic and parking lots. Notable attractions along the route include: the Lincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, and Chicago’s Museum Campus (home to the renowned Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, and The Shedd Aquarium).
Learn more about the Lakefront trail and see this map
More of my favorite Chicago freebies
2. Navy Pier
Location: Downtown Chicago
One of the most visited attractions in downtown Chicago is beautiful Navy Pier, a 3300 foot long pier, famous for its’ 200 foot Ferris Wheel and ongoing entertainment lineup. Although there are lots of tasty treat shops (try an iconic Rainbow cone!) and fun restaurants to enjoy, as well as shops to browse, there are plenty of fun freebies to enjoy as well. On Wednesday-Saturday nights, from Memorial to Labor Day, you can enjoy a magnificent free fireworks show. However, the best free thing to do is to stroll along the pier and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and Chicago’s iconic skyline. Also be sure to check the event calendar for upcoming free art shows, movies, and concerts.
3. Starved Rock State Park
Location: Oglesby, Illinois
One of the most beautiful state parks in the Midwest is located just 2 hours outside of Chicago. 13 miles of trails, some featuring great views of the Illinois River, offer the perfect rustic escape from the city congestion. There are 8 beautiful canyon waterfalls (green marked trails) which are usually most active in the spring after heavy rains. Starved Rock is home to 18 canyons featuring vertical walls of moss-covered St.Peter Sandstone (created by glacial meltwater that slices through the sandstone bluffs). The best month to visit is in October where you will be able to enjoy vivid fall foliage, along with exploring the canyons and taking in the gorgeous river scenery.
4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Location: Cleveland, Ohio
As one of the nation’s only free national Parks, Cuyahoga is definitely worth a visit if you find yourself seeking nature activities near Cleveland. It’s the most beautiful place to hike, bike ride, kayak, picnic, horseback ride, and enjoy winter sports in the Cleveland metro. The highlight here is the extensive network of hiking trails, with 125 miles of diverse terrain to explore. The moderate 1.5 mile trek to 60 foot Brandywine Falls is the hike to add to your bucket list. For those who cannot complete a lengthy hike, there is also an observing platform. A scenic train ride is another option for those who don’t mind shelling out a few bucks. Another park highlight is the 100 mile Towpath trail which crosses through the park for about 20 miles. Bonus – the Bike Aboard program allows you to bike to your comfort and take the train back!
Learn morea bout Cuyahoga Valley
Check out the full Hiking guide
5. Millenium Park
Location: Downtown Chicago
The now iconic centerpiece of downtown Chicago was constructed in 1998 to celebrate the millennium. Millennium Park was supposed to open to the public in 2000, however, opening was delayed 4 years. On July 16, 2004, the city celebrated with a 3 day extravaganza which included concerts and various events. Not only does the park feature a number of free art attractions and a wonderful free winter ice skating rink, but it is also site of numerous free city events. The top thing to do here year round is taking your picture by the famous Cloud Gate “bean” sculpture. Anish Kapoor created the iconic sculpture which is now one of the largest permanent outdoor art displays. The reflective nature of the piece makes it a fun spot to take souvenir photos with the skyline in the background.
