5 things to do for $5 (or less) in suburbs, Chicago
Freedom struggles
See letters by activists Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony, plus many other historical documents and prints in "Freedom: A History of US." The traveling exhibit opens Friday at the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst. Free. elmhursthistory.org. 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday and Tuesday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; runs through Sunday, March 11
Illinois artists
More than 30 Illinois artists are featured in the "Fourth Annual Adler Member Artist Exhibition." See works ranging from paintings to custom furniture starting Friday at the David Adler Music and Arts Center, 1700 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. Free. (847) 367-0707 or adlercenter.org. 6 to 8 p.m. opening reception Friday, Jan. 12. Regular hours: 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday; 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday; runs through Friday, Jan. 26
Winter fun
Bundle up for some outdoor winter fun at Frosty Fest. Depending on the weather, there may be ice sculpting, sleigh rides, sledding and more Saturday at Bittersweet Golf Course, 875 Almond Road, Gurnee. Free. (847) 855-9031 or gurnee.il.us. 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13
Seasonal celebration
Volo Bog's "Winterfest" features tours, crafts, a photo contest and a singer-songwriter tribute concert by Will Kruger. The event takes place at the Volo Bog State Natural Area, 28478 W. Brandenburg Road, Ingleside. Free, but donations are appreciated. (815) 344-1294 or friendsofvolobog.org. Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 14
Our great museums
It's time again for Chicago Museum Week, which means discounted admissions and a smattering of free days for Illinois residents at select institutions. Experience the amazing exhibits once again or for the very first time while saving some cash, too. For a complete list of participating museums and discounts, visit chicagomuseumweek.com. Various times between Thursday, Jan. 18, and Friday, Jan. 26