There’s never a shortage of things to do in Chicago — and luckily, many of those things are free. Every month brings a fresh batch of free activities, events, and happenings all throughout the city. This April, take advantage of free museum days, public art displays, open gallery nights, poetry readings and workshops, free attractions, and so much more.
Here’s our roundup of the top free things to do in Chicago this April.
1. Catch a new season of Art on theMART
Starts April 25, 2025
Art on THE MART is back and as big as ever, with a brand new season debuting on Friday, April 25, 2025. One of the world’s largest digital art platforms, this massive waterfront display transforms an architectural landmark into a larger-than-life canvas.
The spring edition of Art on THE MART will kick off with a new commission by Shana Moulton, a contemporary digital artist known for her colorful and playful video work focused on the female figure and mesmerizing patterns. The spring program will be on view nightly from 8:30 – 9:00 p.m. from April 25 through June 1, 2025.
Explore: Find more things to do this month in Chicago.
2. Admire spring flower shows
Through April
It might be just warming up outside but it’s always a balmy spring day at the city’s indoor conservatories.
At the free Lincoln Park Conservatory, the annual spring show is called “Spectrum of Spring” and runs through May 11, 2025. Admire the wide range of colorful, artfully presented blooms. Book your free reservations online in advance.
Named the best garden in North America, Garfield Park Conservatory will be hosting its spring flower show, titled “Rooted in Mystery”, now through May 11, 2025. Admission is free for Chicago residents, non-resident admission is $10.
3. Get free museum admission
Select dates in April
On certain days each month, Chicago’s top museums open their doors and offer free admission for Illinois residents. This April, delve into the far reaches of space, explore local history, meet aquatic creatures from around the world, and so much more.
This month’s free museum days for Ilinois residents include:
- Chicago History Museum: April 16 and 30
- Shedd Aquarium: April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 (after 5 p.m.)
- Griffin Museum of Science and Industry: April 20
- Field Museum: Wednesdays in April
- DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center: Wednesdays in April
Explore more: Mark your calendar for free museum days throughout the year.
4. Visit a spring farmers market
Through April
Celebrate the bounty of spring during the opening weeks of select Chicago farmers markets! These free markets pop up in neighborhood parks all over the city, marking the transition from winter to spring. Stroll the aisles of local vendors and artisans, sample their products, enjoy live music, and soak in the warming weather.
In April, find Chicago farmers markets at these locations:
- Green City Market Lincoln Park (Saturdays in April)
- Logan Square Farmers Market (Unity Park pop-ups): April 5, 12, 26
5. Attend a fest honoring Mexican women in art
Through April 26, 2025
The National Museum of Mexican Art is hosting its 31st annual Sor Juana Festival from now through April 26. This multi-disciplinary event series honors the artistic accomplishments of Mexican women across the globe.
In April, attend artist talks and live performances showcasing everything from mariachi to Frida Kahlo. While you’re at the museum, make sure to explore the always-free galleries.
6. Celebrate National Poetry Month
Through April
Celebrate National Poetry Month at the Poetry Foundation, which houses a massive library, an exhibition gallery, a tree-lined courtyard, and a performance space. All year long, visitors will find an array of events that are free and open to the public. This month, attend an exhibition opening, a book club, poetry readings, and more.
Chicago Public Library locations throughout Chicago’s neighborhoods will also be hosting a series of events to celebrate National Poetry Month, including experiential workshops, book clubs, documentary screenings, and more.
7. Take a tour of the Chicago Cultural Center
Through April
A landmark attraction in Chicago’s downtown Loop, the Chicago Cultural Center first opened in 1897. Today, this stunning public space is free and open for the public to explore, including art exhibitions, live performances, fascinating history, a local makers market, and soaring architecture — including the world’s largest Tiffany glass dome. Make the most of your visit with the free guided tours that meet every Thursday and Friday afternoon year-round.
8. Explore the Chicago Botanic Garden
April 7 – 11, 2025
Located just outside Chicago in suburban Glencoe, the sprawling Chicago Botanic Garden offers various free admission days throughout the year. This month, the gardens are free to all from Monday, April 7 to Friday, April 11. Explore the 385-acre grounds and check out all the spring blooms throughout the dozens of gardens and natural areas. Tickets are free but pre-registration is required.
9. Take advantage of open gallery nights
Select dates in April
Head to Bridgeport Art Center on the third Friday of each month to enjoy Open Studio hours. Meet local painters, sculptors, photographers, fashion designers, ceramic artists, woodworkers, and more during this free evening event. Each month offers something new to see.
Nearby, the Zhou B Art Center also opens its doors for free open studio nights on the third Friday of the month. Wander through different galleries, chat with resident artists, and explore a blend of international and local art.
On the second Friday of each month, the Chicago Fine Arts Building invites the public to come inside their historic space and explore 10 floors of art and creativity. Meet an array of artists across disciplines, view their works, and learn more about their process.
10. Visit a historic zoo
Through April
Lincoln Park Zoo is Chicago’s free zoo and one of the oldest in the country. It’s open to the public all year long. Stroll through the scenic grounds, where you can watch animals from around the world explore their habitats through the many indoor and outdoor exhibits.
In April, mark your calendar for the Second Saturday Garden Tours. These free tours are led by a zoo horticulturist who will identify seasonal blooms and answer questions from fellow nature lovers.
Bonus! Explore a new neighborhood
Through April
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, there’s always something new to discover in Chicago. Get to know a new neighborhood on a free Chicago Greeter tour, led by a friendly local who will show you each neighborhood’s landmarks, hot spots, and hidden gems.
Looking for more? Check out our guide on free things to do in Chicago all year long.
