Get ready to sail over to Red Lobster for big savings, shrimp lovers! When it comes to seafood, shrimp is at the top of the list for many diners. However, dining out on shrimp can be expensive…very expensive. That’s what makes the popular seafood … [Read More...]
Latest Deals and Events

Early Bird Chicago Boat Cruises for $20
It's that time of year! The season to enjoy Chicago views of gorgeous Lake Michigan has officially arrived and there's no better way to take in all the watery beauty than with a boat cruise. Chicago Party Boat is offering discounted Friday Night … [Read More...]

Free and cheap things to do this weekend in Chicago
Looking for something fun to do this weekend in Chicago? There are tons of free and cheap events in the city. Here’s our list of the top free events, discounts, and deals to have fun around town on your Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. There are … [Read More...]

Auntie Anne’s Golden Pretzel Pass ‘untwists’ free pretzel every week for one year
Don’t get it twisted, this is an amazing deal for pretzel lovers! One of the best places to enjoy a fresh, hot pretzel is at Auntie Anne’s. And, for a limited time, the popular pretzel shop is offering a Golden Pretzel Pass for 52 weeks of salty … [Read More...]

Free events at Daley Plaza under the Picasso
One of the joys of summer in Chicago is experiencing the eclectic cultural events at Daley Plaza. Under the shade of the Picasso sculpture, artists and performers from around the world sing, dance and present cultural ceremonies that supply an … [Read More...]

Sor Juana Festival Events
The annual Sor Juana Festival honors the historic Mexican writer, feminist and nun, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, with a dynamic line-up of artists, writers, filmmakers and singers at the National Museum of Mexican Art through April 29, … [Read More...]

McDonald’s expands McValue Menu with Under $3 Menu & $4 Breakfast Meal Deal
Dining at fast-food restaurants is no longer as inexpensive as it once was for families on a budget. Fortunately, McDonald’s is serving up more choices and more ways to save with the expansion of its affordable (and popular) McValue … [Read More...]

Celebrate Spring with a Bonfire at Andersonville’s Valborg
Join the Swedish tradition of welcoming spring and banishing winter with a roaring bonfire, music, poetry, food and dance at the second annual Valborg in the Andersonville neighborhood on April 30, 2026. Sit around the bonfire and toss the … [Read More...]

Free Chicago Cultural Center Tours
Explore the neoclassical beauty of the historic Chicago Cultural Center during free tours every Thursday and Friday. Discover the fascinating history and landmark status of one of Chicago's most beloved architectural … [Read More...]
Today’s Free & Cheap Events in Chicago
Featured Events

Free and cheap things to do this weekend in Chicago
Looking for something fun to do this weekend in Chicago? There are tons of free and cheap events in the city. Here’s … [Read More...]

Get Free Stuff on Your Birthday
It's your special day so you deserve a gift. Lots of companies offer free stuff for your birthday. In some cases, … [Read More...]

Free or cheap things to do in Chicago this week
If you’re looking for a way to entertain yourself, your family and your friends in Chicago without spending a lot of … [Read More...]

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Free Days
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Free Days Where: Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 North Cannon Drive, … [Read More...]













Chicago on the Cheap is a member of Living on the Cheap, a network of websites published by frugalistas, journalists and consumer advocates. Find practical advice on saving money on groceries, travel and shopping, plus tips from our experts on how to live the good life for less at 