Chicago, Illinois — As communities across the country celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, businesses throughout the Chicago area are joining the festivities with limited-time discounts, family activities and special $2.50 offers in honor of the historic milestone.
From discounted zoo admissions and patriotic treats to arcade games and community celebrations, both local attractions and national restaurant chains are offering visitors plenty of ways to celebrate Independence Day without spending much.
Zoos and Local Attractions Join the Celebration
Several popular attractions are marking the occasion with special admission prices and patriotic activities.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago is offering $2.50 general admission for children on July 4, along with a special $17.76 family combo meal inspired by a traditional Fourth of July cookout. The zoo will also host a variety of holiday-themed activities throughout the day.
At Cosley Zoo in Wheaton, visitors can purchase hot dogs for $2.50 on both July 4 and July 5 as part of the America 250 celebration.
Meanwhile, the Midway Village Museum in Rockford is hosting patriotic crafts, educational exhibits, liberty games and a live printing demonstration of the Declaration of Independence. Guests can even take home a printed copy for just $2.50.
Restaurants Roll Out $2.50 Specials
Several national and regional restaurant chains are offering limited-time menu deals during the holiday celebration.
Checkers & Rally’s will serve an All-American Burger paired with an apple pie for $2.50 on July 4.
Dairy Queen is introducing its patriotic Stars & Stripes Misty Slush Float, available in a small size for $2.50 from June 29 through July 5.
At Oberweis Ice Cream & Dairy, customers can enjoy $2.50 Kids’ Scoops from July 1 through July 4. Families can also receive complimentary red, white and blue sprinkles, while children may receive patriotic sunglasses with qualifying purchases while supplies last.
Ranalli’s Pizza Bar in Lincoln Park is also participating with $2.50 hot dogs and apple pie slices as part of its Fourth of July specials running through July 5.
Free Treats and Limited-Time Offers
Some businesses are celebrating with freebies in addition to discounted prices.
Krispy Kreme will give customers wearing red, white and blue clothing a free Original Glazed Doughnut on July 4.
From July 2 through July 5, customers can also purchase a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for $2.50 when buying another dozen or a 16-count Minis box at regular price.
The Human Bean is offering Iced Shaken Espresso, Iced Tea and Lemonade for $2.50 through July 6, while Sonic Drive-In continues its special $2.50 value menu through July 12, with commemorative summer cups available while supplies last.
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Entertainment and Community Events Offer Affordable Fun
Families looking for activities beyond food can also find several budget-friendly options.
Dave & Buster’s is offering Unlimited Game Play for $2.50 on July 4 for guests who purchase the promotion in-store before noon.
The city of Harvard will celebrate with a neighborhood parade beginning at 9:30 a.m., followed by music, lawn games, concessions and family activities. Visitors can also enjoy the Harvard Aquatic Center’s discounted $2.50 daily admission.
On July 5, the Winnetka Ice Arena will host its America 250 Public Skate, encouraging guests to wear patriotic colors while enjoying $2.50 admission.
With so many restaurants, attractions and community organizations participating, residents across the Chicago area have plenty of opportunities to celebrate America 250 while taking advantage of affordable holiday specials.
Which America 250 deal are you most excited to check out this Fourth of July? Let us know in the comments and share your favorite local celebration or bargain with fellow readers.