Spudnik Press and The Art Institute
1. The Art Institute of Chicago. Did you know that the Art Institute has free admission on Thursdays? We didn't either! Just show up between 5 and 8 p.m., then walk around like you own the joint.
The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 South Michigan Avenue; 312-443-3600.
2. Rosebud Prime Restaurant. Free food. We'll say it again. Free food. Every weekday from 3 to 6 p.m. enjoy your happy hour at Rosebud Prime with a side of totally complimentary appetizers. They're so yummy you might be enticed to actually order a real dinner, but you've been properly warned.
Rosebud Prime, 1 South Dearborn Street; 312-384-1900.
3. Spudnik Press. Broaden your creative horizons and learn illustrating at Spudnik Press for free! Join Spudnik March 9 for a free workshop. Classes usually require a fee, so take advantage of this freeloader's dream.
Spudnik Press, 1821 West Hubbard Street; 312-532-0304.
4. Aveda Institute. Any time between now and April 11, save some serious cash by getting a free cut or color from the Aveda Institute, courtesy of Broke Hipster. Any time beauty services come with a zero price tag, count us in.
Aveda Institute, 2828 North Clark Street; 773-883-1560.
5. Millennium Park. Inject some fun into your too-tired workout routine. Ice Skate for free at Millennium Park any time between now and March 13. This one's also a great way to get in some quality kid-time with your favorite little ones—the park is totally kid-centric.
Millennium Park, 201 East Randolph Street; 312-742-1168.
6. Chicago Botanic Garden. Either brave it now or keep your chilly derriere indoors until summer. It wont matter because the Chicago Botanic Garden is always free. We're dying to see the Japanese garden covered in snow! (Yes, we know we just requested more snow, apologies.)
Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL 60022; 847-835-5440.
7. Lush Wine & Spirits. Welcome to the no-brainer portion of our story. Every single Sunday, Lush hosts a free wine tasting. This editor speaks from experience when she says Lush knows their wine and staff are always more than happy to give guests a mini-lesson in tasting.
Lush Wine & Spirits, 1412 West Chicago Avenue; 312-666-6900.
8. The Empty Bottle. Almost every Monday the music hound in you can enjoy free rock at The Empty Bottle. Bands are often local, so it's a great way to support Chicago rock and save your cash for another show later in the week. Mondays are less of a drag now, no?
Empty Bottle, 1035 North Western Avenue; 773-276-3600.
9. Williams-Sonoma. If you're stuck with two culinary left feet, Williams-Sonoma can help, and it won't cost you a penny. Weekly classes change each month and even if your skills don't rise above boiling water, what have you got to loose?
Williams-Sonoma, 900 North Michigan Avenue, Space #L2-14 Ll-4s; 312-587-8080.