Planning and visiting the great city of Chicago is a great opportunity, but can be pricy. If you are visiting the windy city on a budget there is still much to do, and many ways to experience the fun that Chicago has to offer. There are tours, museums, parks and all sorts of low price and sometimes free family activities to be apart of.

Many of the admittance tickets for the famous museums in Chicago can be quite pricy and add up quickly, but there are ways to see many of the tours without breaking the bank. For $49, what is called a CityPass will give you entrance to six of the largest attractions that Chicago has to offer. Places like the Adler Planetarium, Art Institute, and the Field Museum are some of the places you will see. The Chicago card requires use within nine days of purchase.

If you live in Chicago or know someone who does, you can find museum discounts. If you have a Chicago Library card you can get a free pass to the Kraft Kids Museum which is a fun filled tour for kids and adults alike. The library card gives entrance into 11 of Chicago's attractions but you can only gain entrance into one per card so pick wisely.

The Art Institute of Chicago has free entrance on Thursdays between 5:30 and 9pm. This Chicago museum giant is home to a vast collection of art and pieces from all around the world and is a great way to spend an evening.

If you are into contemporary art, then the Museum of Contemporary Art is where you need to be. The museum offers free admittance on Tuesdays from 5 to 8pm. The Museum of Contemporary Photography is also a great place and is always free to get in.

Chicago is also home to the International Museum of Surgical Science. This museum offers a great history of surgery. Entrance into this museum is also free on Tuesdays. On a Friday, make your way to the Jewish History and Culture exhibit at the Spertus Museum for free entrance. (Update: the Spertus Museum exhibitions are closed for remodeling and will reopen fall of 2007.

If you make your way to Chicago during the summer months, the Chicago Transit Authority has something they call the Loop Tour. The guided tour is informative and helps tourists understand and learn about the architecture that is found in the city of Chicago, Illinois.

If you want to stop for dinner or just to grab a drink, stop by the Signature Lounge which is located on the 95th floor of the Hancock Building.

Another great place to visit that has free entry is the Navy Pier. Be warned though that entrance into the Chicago Children's Museum is not free. While you are at Navy Pier, stop by and shop at the different kiosks, and check out the museum there as well.

Traveling to all of these diverse places can also cost little to no money. The city of Chicago has a free trolley service. During the warmer summer months, it runs every day and on the weekend through the rest of the year.

Finding a place to eat in Chicago can be difficult. The range of restaurants range in culture and price. Chicago is home to high end dining but, you can still experience Chicago on a budget if you search.