The city of Chicago is one of the most visited and renowned destinations for people all over the world. To make your money stretch a bit further when visiting the city, take advantage of a series of free trolley tours offered at different times during the year. Free trolley tours are designed to stimulate the retail industry in the city and to give people an affordable way to see many of the city's attractions.
The Chicago Department of Transportation offers free trolley tours of the Bronzeville arts district every third Friday between August and October every year. The goal of this program is to increase retail traffic in this particular area of the city. A knowledgeable trolley operator is available to answer questions during the tour. Guests have the opportunity to get on and off the trolley at several locations, including the Blanc Gallery, the DuSable Museum, Faie African Art Gallery, Gallery Guichard, Little Black Pearl and the South Side Community Art Center. This trolley tour focuses on the arts created in the South Side area of the city.
Patch is the mascot of Chicago's Navy pier and he throws a massive Halloween party on October 31st every year between the hours of noon and 4 p.m. The focus of the party is to give children a fright-free Halloween experience with several activities, including a "Carnival of Curiosities." Patch is joined annually by other Chicago area mascots from major sports teams at businesses on the pier. Children will have the chance to play games, enjoy entertainment and explore the pier with their families. The Chicago Department of Transportation provides free trolley transportation along the pier area for easy access to the festivities.
The Chicago Department of Transportation offers free trolley tours year-round that explore Navy Pier and State Street along Grand Avenue and Illinois Street that make a final stop at the Chicago Children's Museum. The museum offers children a hands-on art experience with hundreds of exhibits and a series of educational tours of classes. Admission to the museum is not included in the free trolley tour.
