How to Make Money in Chicago as a Visitor or Tourist

Chicago is a city that’s full of life, energy, and—most importantly—opportunity. Whether you're here for a short stay or a few weeks, there are plenty of ways to make money while you explore all that the Windy City has to offer. From side gigs to using your talents, here are some practical and relatable ways to make money in Chicago as a visitor.

1. Freelance or Remote Work

If you have a skill—like writing, graphic design, or social media management—freelancing can be a perfect way to make money while enjoying the city. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer are great places to get started. You don’t need to be tied to an office to make a living anymore, especially with all the free Wi-Fi in Chicago’s cafés and co-working spaces.

• What You Can Do: Freelance writing, graphic design, web development, or even offering virtual assistant services.

• Pro Tip: Just make sure to have a solid internet connection, and you can work from any café or park in the city!

2. Gig Economy Jobs: Uber, Lyft, and Delivery

The gig economy is thriving in Chicago, and it’s an easy way for tourists to make quick money. If you’re comfortable driving, you can sign up for ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. Chicago’s always busy, especially around touristy spots like Navy Pier or Millennium Park, so there’s always demand for rides.

• What You Can Do: Drive for Uber/Lyft or deliver food with services like DoorDash, UberEats, or Postmates.

• Pro Tip: If you’re driving, try to work during peak times like weekends or during events to maximize earnings.

Not into driving? No worries! You can also deliver food or groceries. Plus, it’s a great way to explore neighborhoods you might not have visited yet.

3. Sell Your Photos or Videos

Chicago is full of beautiful architecture, stunning parks, and vibrant street life, making it a photographer’s dream. If you’re into photography or videography, you can make money by selling your photos to stock libraries like Shutterstock or iStock.

• What You Can Do: Snap pictures of iconic spots like the Willis Tower, Lincoln Park, or the Chicago Riverwalk and sell them online.

• Pro Tip: Look for unique angles or moments that capture the essence of the city—tourists are always on the lookout for Chicago-centric shots.

You can even sell videos or time-lapse clips from your phone—perfect for tourists who want unique footage of the city.

4. Street Performance or Busking

If you have a talent for music, dance, or performance, street performing (or busking) is a fun way to make money in Chicago. The city is packed with tourists and locals who love street performances, especially in busy spots like Michigan Avenue, Millennium Park, or around Navy Pier.

• What You Can Do: Play music, sing, dance, or even put on a unique performance.

• Pro Tip: Make sure to check if you need a permit for performing in certain locations. Chicago has some areas where busking is more regulated, so it’s best to do a little research.

5. Rent Your Space or Gear

If you’re staying in an Airbnb or vacation rental, why not make some extra cash by renting out your space while you’re out exploring? You can rent your room or apartment when you're not using it—just make sure to check any city regulations about short-term rentals.

• What You Can Do: Rent out your apartment or room on Airbnb while you’re sightseeing.

• Pro Tip: You can also rent out equipment like bikes, cameras, or even camping gear if you’re traveling light and don’t need it all the time.

Platforms like Fat Llama allow you to rent out your gear, whether it’s a bike, camera, or even a sound system, to other tourists who might need it.

6. Participate in Market Research or Focus Groups

Many companies are willing to pay people for their time and opinions, and you don’t need to be a local to participate. Focus groups and market research studies are always happening in big cities like Chicago, and they’re a great way to make some cash.

• What You Can Do: Sign up for market research companies that pay for your time in focus groups, surveys, or product testing.

• Pro Tip: Websites like FindFocusGroups and UserTesting often list paid opportunities. You can find sessions that fit your schedule and interests, and many are short, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour.

7. Sell Crafts or Goods at Markets

If you’re crafty, Chicago has a vibrant arts and crafts scene, especially during the warmer months. You can sell handmade goods like jewelry, clothing, or art at local markets or street fairs.

• What You Can Do: Sell your creations at popular markets like the Randolph Street Market or Logan Square Farmers Market.

• Pro Tip: Many of these markets attract both locals and tourists, so it’s a great way to connect with people from all over the world.

Platforms like Etsy also allow you to sell your crafts online, so if you’re not up for a physical market, this can be a great option.

8. Host or Join Local Experiences

Have a skill or passion you can share? You can make money by hosting a local experience or tour. Chicago is home to countless activities, from food tours to art walks, and you can easily create an experience that others would want to join.

• What You Can Do: Host a cooking class, give a guided tour of your favorite neighborhood, or offer a unique cultural experience.

• Pro Tip: Use platforms like Airbnb Experiences or Showaround to list your tour or experience. These platforms allow tourists to book activities that connect them with locals.

Final Thoughts

As a visitor or tourist, Chicago offers endless opportunities to make money, whether you want to make a few extra bucks on the side or turn it into a longer-term gig. From freelancing and gig economy jobs to selling your talents or renting out your space, the city’s got a little something for everyone. All you need is your hustle, a bit of creativity, and a willingness to explore the city in a new way!