15 Cheap And Fun Date Ideas Near The University of Chicago

If you have received admission to Chicago University you are indeed fortunate not only to study at one of the best alma maters’ in the country, but also are privileged to be in one of the most vibrant and happening cities Stateside. Chicago is the ideal city to study and live in. There are a host of eclectic attractions including fabulous waterfront areas that make it perfect to explore on the weekend. If you do not already have a date you could Google to meet singles online. From the theater to Botanic Gardens, museums to Chicago’s famous Chinatown, there is a myriad of places to explore in the city that make for great date ideas near the University of Chicago. And many of these are for free or charge a nominal admission fee, so they are just perfect to explore with your special one on a holiday or the weekend. Some of the cool places to visit and things to do with your partner include:

1. Visit the Chicago Botanic Garden.

There is nothing quite as romantic as to meander through a beautiful garden with someone special. And the Chicago Botanic Garden is just the place with 27 stunning gardens and that are spread over an impressive 400 acres of land. It also includes nine islands. Its magnificent scenery includes giant topiaries, an English walled garden, recreated prairies and scenic Japanese gardens. These are home to an exquisite collection of bonsai plants. Once you and your date are done sightseeing, grab a bite or an ice-cream at the Garden View Café.

2. Drop in at for a show at Chicago Theatre.

It is one of the best places to enjoy an evening of theater in the city of Chicago. It is very well known and popular with locals as well as visitors who enjoy. It is located in the center of the Loop and features a wide variety of performances, which include classics to contemporary, rock to pop among a host of other genres.

3. Millennium Park – romantic place for walks.

One of the more popular places in Chicago is Millennium Park. There is nothing quite as romantic as seeing couples meet and fall in love on an ice rink, like in the movies! It is the perfect spot to spend a romantic evening at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink. Once you’ll have had an enjoyable evening of skating head to the Park Grill close by, for a warm and refreshing cup of latte.

4. Take a ride on the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel.

The Navy Pier Centennial Wheel is just the spot for a romantic ride. Standing an impressive 200 feet in height, it has 42 glass gondolas to grab the best views of Chicago from its vantage point. IF you really want to do things in style how about spending some extra bucks and hire a swanky VIP gondola with its elegant glass floors and luxurious interiors. A great way to spend a romantic evening reveling in the company of each other!

5. The Magnificent Mile.

With superb shops, romantic bars and restaurants the Magnificent Mile that lies to the North of the River is a great place to spend an evening with your date.

6. The Second City – comedy club.

To spend a joyful evening, visit the Second City a very popular improv comedy club. You and your date could even join an improv workshop in their training center.

7. Enjoy an evening at any of the museums.

If the both of you enjoy cultural things there are plenty of art and science museums to visit in Chicago. From places that showcase the history of the city to African American history there is a lot to choose from.

8. Art Institute of Chicago:

A fabulous place it is both a school and a museum which showcases both modern and ancient art. And the good news is that admission is free for University of Chicago students.

9. Willis Tower

Formerly known as the Sears Tower, Willis Tower is out of the tallest buildings in the country. Visit its Skydeck and The Ledge on the 103rd floors for magnificent views of the city sky cape.

10. Lincoln Park Zoo

Another great free attraction the Lincoln Park Zoo is located downtown. It showcases a stunning menagerie of reptiles, mammals, amphibians and birds. You could also explore its neighborhood and beautiful waterfront beaches.

11. The Museum of Contemporary Art

With its collection being changed every three months The MCA is a popular haunt for art lovers. On the first Friday of every month there is free admission with plenty of live entertainment among a host of other things.

12. Adler Planetarium

A fun way to spend an evening with your date would be to learn about our galaxy and beyond at the planetarium. It also exhibits a number of IMAX type movies about our solar system.

13. Shedd Aquarium

To see some of the most spectacular aquatic exhibits from across the planet visit the Shedd Aquarium. A good way to save on admission charges would be to get two Chicago Citypasses for your date and you.

14. Field Museum

Take you date on an interesting tour of the Field Museum to see its amazing collection, which includes an eclectic array of exhibits ranging from ants to dinosaurs. It will be a thrilling experience to enjoy together.

15. Chinatown

Chicago has a thriving Chinese community and Chinatown is a great place to visit for an authentic Chinese experience. Once you are done shopping, take your date for a fabulous Chinese meal at any of the upscale restaurants in the area.