Things to do in Chicago during winter (under $100)

Chicago stands out as one of America’s most valuable cities. Local architecture, history, and a spirit of jazz in every neighborhood could be a reasonable reason to travel there. Whether you’re seeking chilly winter escapes from routine, educational museums, or unique local experiences, Chicago delivers it all. Even its darker, more unusual attractions add a surprise to any visit.

Warm & Weird Indoor Activities

There are many things to do under $100/ Here you can find top 5 attractions to do this winter.

1. The Shedd Aquarium presents 32,000+ sea ​​inhabitants across the world, supported by conservation programs and marine biologists, rated 4.6 stars by 25,000+ visitors.

2. The Adler Planetarium delivers hands-on astronomy exhibits backed to Earth by astronomers and NASA-aligned programs. The place rated 4.6 stars by 12,000+ visitors.

3. The Medieval Torture Museum for those who into mystery and history. It provides a thrilling educational experience with interactive exhibits which guided horrific storytelling and photo-zones. The museum offers 100+ authentic with historical context replicas. It is a unique and specific experience and attractions in Chicago. The museum is designed to be emotional and eye-opening, offering an immersive atmosphere that transports visitors to the horror past. Here is a place to learn more about the past in human history. It recognized by TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards 2025, and rated 4.7⭐ by 5 000+ visitors. Children under the age of 10 are admitted free of charge if a dedicated adult accompanies them. 
4. The Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio in Oak Park showcases the architect’s home and working studio where he developed his Prairie Style, backed by the Wright Preservation Trust and National Historic Landmark status, rated 4.8 stars by hundreds of architecture lovers.

Cultural & Historical Spots to Visit

1. Garfield Park Conservatory features expansive indoor/outdoor gardens with plants from around the world and free public access, ranked “#1 garden in North America” by Yelp, rated 4.7stars by thousands of visitors.
2. The Jane Addams Hull-House Museum is a one of a part of dark history of Chicago. The original settlement-house buildings founded in 1889 by Nobel laureate Jane Addams. They’re offering free admission, guided tours, and deep insight into immigrant and social-reform history, rated 4.6 stars by visitors.
3. The Harold Washington Library Center houses nearly two million books and a “Winter Garden” atrium, glorified for its architecture and public service, rated 4.6 stars by 1,000+ visitors.
4. The Art Institute of Chicago hosts a collection of nearly 300 000 works spanning 5 000+ years of human expression, directed by professional curators and endowed with renowned research & conservation departments, rated 4.7 stars by thousands of visitors. 
5. The National Museum of Mexican Art collects over 20 000 seminal pieces from ancient Mexico to contemporary works. Expositions deeply rooted in cultural representation and education, also free to enter, rated 4.6 stars by hundreds of visitors.