Yeah, has it been a rough year for you? Me too. The economy has taken bites out of two of my jobs this year, but that hasn’t stopped me. I’ve boarded five planes, have driven over 3,000 miles, and biked, well, a countless amount of roadways. What I have discovered this summer is that travel does not always have to be expensive.

Prior to this summer, it had been over ten years since I had visited the Windy City. Since June, I have been back three times. I mean, honestly, it’s that good. The best part is that I wasn’t stuck inside all day while I was there — I was out having a great time and experiencing the city. All of this, amazingly, was free.

Sound too good to be true? Okay, maybe a little. But aside from the act of getting to the city (gas money, plane or train ticket) and a place to stay (I am fortunate enough to have some great friends that let me annoy them by couch surfing), you really can have an amazing time without spending a dime.

Chicago Skyline by Jessie Barber

Lincoln Park Zoo and Lincoln Park Conservatory – The zoo and conservatory are both free every day, 365 days per year. Check out hundred of animal and plant species while soaking in the awesome atmosphere of Lincoln Park.

Museum of Contemporary Art – Every Tuesday you can explore the four floors of this modern museum. It’s in the heart of the Magnificent Mile, but in the summer you can relax on their lawn and enjoy many exciting events that include picnics, live music, and even a Farmer’s Market.

The Art Institute of Chicago – Now for one of the big players in the Chicago museum game. Free admission is from 5-8pm on Thursdays, which is a steal considering that they recently opened the modern wing. It sits just to the south of Millennium Park, so after enjoying some sculpture outdoors, hop across the street and enjoy everything from Edward Hopper to early Egyptian sculpture. Remember that scene in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off where they are exploring famous art? Yeah, this is it.

Not enough free for you? Don’t forget the Chicago Cultural Center (free every day), the Buckingham Fountain, The Chicago History Museum (free on Mondays), The Museum of Contemporary Photography (free every day), or Navy Pier’s firework shows. There are beaches along Lake Michigan that can keep you entertained for hours (trust me, it’s prime people-watching). Check out some video from my trip while you’re at it.

In you’re interested in keeping your cost (and stresses) even lower, take along your bicycle. Chicago is not only a very flat city, but you’ll find bike lines on almost all streets. Be sure to brush up on your bicycle safety beforehand! If you don’t have a bike or can’t get yours to the city, you can rent one, grab the El Train, or a bus.

Alright, Magellan, now that you have the tools, run out and explore your favorite cities for free. You will be surprised how much you find when you take a look!

Jessie Barber is a free travel expert, photographer, graphic designer and all around artists. Check out her photos and portfolio.